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I have been researching towing vehicles to tow our 1700kg van. Every maker claims their vehicle can do it. Some non partisan comment suggests that the towing vehicle needs to be 15% heavier than what it tows. Can you comment please and also advise the power and torque minimum to tow our van all around NZ?

The legal requirement relates to the ability to stop the vehicle and trailer within 7 metres from a speed of 30km/h so numerous factors come into play. Many vehicles won't be able to do this.
However, 1700kg is a relatively heavy load to tow, so I'd recommend a heavyish vehicle with a decent amount of power and torque. For this reason, diiesel powered SUVs are often favoured as towing vehicles.
Depending on the budget, whether you are considering a new or used vehicle, and type of vehicle you have a need for (not only for towing your caravan, but in terms of space, seating, lifestyle etc), something along the lines of the Toyota Prado, Hyundai Santa Fe, Mitsubishi Pajero etc would be the types of vehicle that would be up to the job.

Thanks very much for the advice. What makes the Sante Fe so special that it can compete with a 2.2 diesel motor against the 3 litre ones you mention? does this open up the field to a lot more choices? I had ruled out motors below 3 litre.

As I said previously, it's the braking distance that's the most important thing. There are other vehicles with smaller engines, such as Mitsubishi Outlander Diesel 4WD (2,000kg limit) or even Mazda CX-5 diesel (just, with an 1,800kg limit) that would be up to the job too.
Manufacturers are getting huge power and torque out of smaller engines these days, so the engine capacity is less of a hindrance, but the weight and tow rating are the important factors, although my preference for towing would still be for a heavier vehicle such as the Prado.
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Would a 2011 Holden Captiva 5, series 2, diesel be suitable ?

Only just. The Captiva 5 Series II Diesel has a towing capacity of 1,700kg.
The Ford Territory would do the job as it has a rating of 2,300kg if fitted with the heavy duty towing kit.

Thanks very much. You have been very helpful in giving me a clear picture of what we need . I am confident that we will get the right vehicle now.

We have purchased a 2008 prado. In the process we learned about the D-4D motor. Some people say it is prone to blowing up. The informed comment says that maintenance is essential to keep the motor in top condition but there appears to be a range of opinion on what a good maintenance schedule is. Some say fuel filter and oil every 5,000km some say every 10,000km and ther Toyota manual says every 15,000kms. Can you give us an unbiased opinion please?