Kiwivan,

the parts cost was $2,300
the charge from the A/C specialist to make and run hoses and gas the system hasn't been presented yet, but I expect it will be under $1,000

Total cost will be a tad over $3,000
I seriously doubt you could do it cheaper as I did just about everything myself.

The Engine bay is SIGNIFICANTLY less cluttered and working on the engine is simple vs the factory A/C.

Attended the recent Van-in in Wodonga and the heater worked excellently on the cold nights (my partner really feels the cold) and the A/C was fantastic in cooling down the hot interior on the drive back.
both times, the fan was at the slowest speed and temp setting's 1/2 way - so I expect it'll be awesome on 40 degree days ;)