Fish Finders NZ: 8 Best GPS & Chartplotter Combos in 2025

Choosing a fish finder in NZ can feel like chasing sign on the sounder—lots of blips, not much clarity. Screen size, CHIRP, Side/Down Imaging, live sonar, chart chips, transducers, networking… then there’s the question of what actually works best on a Kiwi kayak, tinny, trailer boat or hardtop when you’re fishing the Hauraki Gulf, Lake Taupō or wide off the West Coast. Add exchange-rate swings and local stock differences, and it’s no wonder “fish finders NZ” searches spike every season.

This guide cuts through the noise. We’ve shortlisted the 8 best GPS/chartplotter combos for 2025 that are readily available in New Zealand, comparing on-water clarity, target separation, mapping options, transducer pairings, networking, installation notes and typical NZ pricing. You’ll see who each unit suits (from first sounder to serious soft-baiter or deep-dropper), plus which charts and transducers make the most sense here (think Navionics and C‑MAP options). We’ll also highlight Action Outdoors as a local source you can call, click, or visit if you want practical advice and pickup. Ready to find the combo that’ll actually put you on fish? Let’s get into the top picks.

1. Action Outdoors (NZ): Your local source for fish finder GPS/chartplotter combos

Before we dive into individual units, it pays to know a trusted local. Based in Auckland with an online store, Action Outdoors is a practical first stop for “fish finders NZ” shoppers who want real advice, quick answers, and the option to buy in-store or online.

Why it made our list

Action Outdoors specialises in outdoor and marine gear, including marine electronics, and backs it with local knowledge and service. You get the convenience of e‑commerce with the reassurance of a physical store you can ring or visit for setup tips, stock checks and pickup.

• Local expertise: Straight answers on what actually works on NZ boats and kayaks.
• One-stop convenience: Marine electronics plus accessories and install consumables.
• Service-minded: Store visits, phone support, product videos and a Specials page.

Best for

If you value NZ-based advice, want to see gear before you commit, or prefer a single supplier for your boat bits, Action Outdoors fits the bill.

• First-time buyers: Clear guidance to avoid mismatched units/transducers.
• DIY installers: Sensible install pointers and parts under one roof.
• Everyday skippers: Practical, budget-aware recommendations that catch fish.

Charts and transducer options in NZ

Choosing charts and transducers is where locals shine. Action Outdoors can help you weigh common NZ chart options like Navionics or C‑MAP (brand-dependent), and match transducers to your hull and fishing style—whether that’s a transom-mount for a tinny/kayak or a through-hull for a larger trailer boat, plus CHIRP, Down/Side Imaging considerations.

Typical NZ pricing

NZ pricing moves with exchange rates, promos and whether you’re buying head unit only or a combo with transducer. Expect to pay more for Side/Down Imaging and network features, and keep an eye on the store’s Specials for seasonal deals. For current availability and ETA, a quick call to the Auckland shop is best.

2. Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 95sv (with GT56UHD-TM)

If your priority is clean detail around reefs, bait schools and weed edges, this 9-inch combo with the GT56UHD-TM transducer is a standout. It brings sharp side and down scanning together with traditional CHIRP in a package that suits NZ kayaks, tinnies and trailer boats looking for a reliable, easy-to-use step up.

Why it made our list

It balances image clarity, usability and install simplicity. With the GT56UHD-TM on the transom, you can read structure and targets with confidence, then flip to split-screen to keep your chart and sonar visible when you’re running between marks.

• Clear structure definition: Ultra‑high‑definition side and down scanning helps you pick edges, pins and bait sign.
• Quick, intuitive operation: Fast access to split views and custom pages keeps you fishing, not fiddling.
• Solid GPS/chartplotter core: Practical chart options for NZ coasts and lakes, with features to plan, mark and navigate.
• Straightforward install: Transom mount suits most small boats; tidy cable runs and mounting footprint.
• Scalable setup: Sensible path to pair with alternative transducers if your fishing changes.

Best for

Anglers who want a proven 9-inch combo that excels inshore and on the lakes without overcomplicating the dash. It’s a sweet spot for soft‑baiters, slow‑jiggers and trout trollers who value crisp returns and reliable navigation.

• Inshore lure and bait work: Reading foul lines, channels and bait balls.
• Lake missions: Following contours, finding drop-offs and schooling fish.
• Kayaks/tinnies to 6–7 m: Big enough screen to read at a glance, compact enough to fit small consoles.

Charts and transducer options in NZ

Chart coverage matters in New Zealand; choose mapping that suits your region and style, whether you’re hugging coastlines or working inland lakes. The bundled GT56UHD-TM is a strong all‑rounder, and there are local upgrade paths if you move to deeper or specific hull installs.

• NZ charting: Opt for chart coverage that includes the areas you fish most; relief shading and contour detail can help on structure.
• GT56UHD-TM strengths: Transom‑mount, delivering high‑detail side/down scanning plus traditional CHIRP for versatile fishing.
• Alternative transducers: Through‑hull or in‑hull options are available locally; confirm compatibility and any module requirements before you buy.

Typical NZ pricing

As with most fish finders NZ shoppers will see, 9-inch UHD combos sit mid-to‑upper tier. Bundles with the GT56UHD-TM cost more than head‑unit‑only, and pricing moves with exchange rates and promos. Stock and lead times can vary seasonally, so check current availability and specials with your preferred NZ retailer.

3. Lowrance Elite FS 9 (Active Imaging 3-in-1)

For Kiwi skippers who want crisp structure views without overhauling the whole dash, the Elite FS 9 hits a sweet spot. Paired with the Active Imaging 3‑in‑1 transducer, it gives you detailed Side and Down scanning alongside traditional CHIRP—ideal for reading foul, bait, channels and weed lines on harbours, lakes and inshore reefs around NZ.

Why it made our list

Lowrance builds chartplotters and fish finders for everyone from casual to tournament anglers, and the Elite FS 9 shows why. It’s a capable, confidence‑building combo with clear returns and an interface that keeps you fishing. It also sits inside the Lowrance ecosystem, where features like Active Imaging and ActiveTarget are available.

• Sharp structure finding: Active Imaging 3‑in‑1 highlights edges, bait and contours with Side/Down views.
• Proven usability: Clean menus and customisable split screens to keep charts and sonar in sight.
• Upgrade-friendly: Sits within Lowrance’s feature set, giving you room to grow your system.
• Versatile install: Transom mount works well on tinnies, kayaks and trailer boats.

Best for

Anglers who want a reliable 9-inch combo for NZ inshore and lake work, from soft‑baiting and slow‑jigging to trolling.

• Harbour and gulf missions: Locating pins, channel edges and bait schools.
• Freshwater: Following contours and marking schooling trout.
• Trailer boats and larger kayaks: Big enough to read at a glance, compact for modest consoles.

Charts and transducer options in NZ

Choose NZ chart coverage that suits your coast or lake focus, plus features like relief shading if you value structure detail. The included Active Imaging 3‑in‑1 is a strong all‑rounder: traditional CHIRP, Down and Side scanning in one transom‑mount package. If your hull or depth requirements change, talk to a local retailer about compatible through‑hull or in‑hull options.

Typical NZ pricing

As with most mid‑range fish finders NZ buyers compare, bundles with the 3‑in‑1 transducer price above head‑unit‑only and shift with promos and exchange rates. Availability and ETAs can be seasonal—check current stock and any specials with your preferred NZ store.

4. Simrad NSX 9 (with Active Imaging)

If you like a clean, modern interface and sharp structure returns, the Simrad NSX 9 paired with Active Imaging is a confident choice for NZ inshore and lake work. It’s a tidy fit on centre consoles and trailer boats, giving you clear sonar views and straightforward charting for finding pins, bait and contour edges.

Why it made our list

The NSX 9 delivers an easy, touchscreen-first experience with crisp feedback from Active Imaging, so spotting rock-to-sand transitions, weed lines and bait clusters feels natural. It’s built for anglers who want to set up custom split screens and get back to fishing fast without digging through menus.

• Clear structure views: Active Imaging helps reveal edges, foul and bait sign at a glance.
• Intuitive touchscreen: Custom pages and split-screen layouts you can run one-handed.
• Confident navigation: Practical chartplotter tools for marking, routing and returning to your marks.
• Tidy install: Transom-mount setup suits most NZ tinnies and trailer boats.

Best for

NZ skippers who prioritise a slick interface and strong structure scanning for soft-baiting, slow-jigging and lake trolling. The 9-inch display is a sweet spot for readability without overcrowding smaller consoles.

• Inshore lure anglers: Reading channels, reefs and bait schools.
• Freshwater crews: Tracking contours and schooling fish on lakes.
• Trailer boats/centre consoles: Balanced footprint and visibility.

Charts and transducer options in NZ

Pick NZ chart coverage that matches where you fish most; popular choices include Navionics and C‑MAP, depending on compatibility and the bundle you buy. The Active Imaging transducer is a versatile transom-mount option for Side/Down views plus traditional CHIRP. Through‑hull or in‑hull alternatives are available locally—confirm compatibility and any module needs with your retailer before you commit.

Typical NZ pricing

As with many 9-inch fish finders NZ buyers compare, the NSX 9 typically sits mid‑to‑upper tier, with bundles costing more than head‑unit‑only. Pricing shifts with exchange rates and promos, and seasonal demand affects stock—check current availability and specials with your preferred NZ store.

5. Humminbird HELIX 9 MEGA SI+ G4N

Humminbird has long been a favourite with Kiwi anglers for clean structure scanning and rugged, boat-friendly design. The HELIX 9 MEGA SI+ G4N gives you a bright 9-inch display paired with Side and Down style imaging, so reading reef edges, weed lines and bait sign around NZ coasts and lakes feels natural. It’s a confident pick for “fish finders NZ” buyers who want clarity without overcomplicating the install.

Why it made our list

The HELIX 9 MEGA SI+ G4N balances crisp imaging with a straightforward keypad interface that’s easy to drive when the boat’s moving. Split-screen views keep charts and sonar visible, while the footprint and cabling suit tinnies and trailer boats. It’s a dependable, no‑nonsense combo for structure-first fishing.

• Crisp structure scanning: Side/Down-style views help reveal foul, edges and bait.
• Simple control: Keypad-driven interface you can use one-handed on the move.
• Readable at a glance: 9-inch display suits compact consoles and open cockpits.
• Practical setup: Transom-mount installs cleanly on most small NZ boats.

Best for

If your fishing lives on reef lines, harbour channels and lake contours, this unit hits the sweet spot. Soft-baiters, slow‑jiggers and trout trollers will appreciate the way it picks transitions and schooling fish without clutter.

• Inshore structure hunters: Pinning rock-to-sand and weed edges.
• Freshwater crews: Tracking drop-offs and mid-water schools.
• Tinnies, centre consoles and big kayaks: Strong visibility with modest footprint.

Charts and transducer options in NZ

Choose NZ chart coverage that prioritises the regions you fish most, with contour detail and shading if you value structure interpretation. Pair the head unit with a Side/Down imaging transducer for all‑round inshore work; through‑hull or in‑hull alternatives are available locally—confirm compatibility and any module requirements with your retailer before buying.

Typical NZ pricing

Expect this 9-inch Side Imaging combo to sit mid‑to‑upper tier compared with other fish finders NZ buyers consider. Bundles that include the imaging transducer cost more than head‑unit‑only, and prices shift with exchange rates and seasonal promos. Check current stock and specials with your preferred NZ store.

6. Raymarine Axiom+ 9 RV

If you want a bright 9-inch display with smooth, modern controls and dependable structure scanning for Kiwi conditions, the Axiom+ 9 RV deserves a look. It’s a tidy fit on centre consoles and trailer boats, giving you sharp returns for reading reef edges, channels and bait schools while keeping navigation simple and confidence‑building.

Why it made our list

The Axiom+ blends a responsive touchscreen with clean sonar imagery and charting that’s easy to trust at speed. Custom split screens keep the key info visible so you can spot sign, stay on the line, and get back to fishing fast.

• Clear structure views: Helps reveal edges, foul and schooling bait.
• Intuitive interface: Touch-first layout with quick access to split pages.
• Solid chartplotter core: Practical tools for marking and routing to waypoints.
• Boat-friendly install: Straightforward transom-mount setup for most NZ tinnies and trailer boats.

Best for

NZ anglers who want a slick, readable 9-inch combo for inshore lure work and freshwater trolling without crowding the dash.

• Inshore structure hunters: Identifying rock-to-sand, weed lines and channels.
• Lakes and rivers: Following contours and marking schooling fish.
• Trailer boats/centre consoles: Balanced footprint with strong daylight visibility.

Charts and transducer options in NZ

Pick NZ chart coverage that matches where you actually fish; relief shading and contour detail help when you’re targeting structure. Pair the head unit with an imaging-capable transducer for Side/Down views plus traditional CHIRP. Through‑hull or in‑hull options are available locally—confirm compatibility and any module needs before you buy.

• NZ charting: Choose coverage for your coast or lake regions.
• Transom-mount first choice: Simple, effective for most small boats.
• Alternate installs: Through‑hull/in‑hull for specific hulls or deeper work.
• Placement matters: Mount clear of strakes, bubbles and trailer rollers.

Typical NZ pricing

A 9-inch imaging combo like this typically lands mid‑to‑upper tier for fish finders NZ shoppers compare. Bundles with an imaging transducer cost more than head‑unit‑only, and pricing shifts with exchange rates and seasonal promos. Check current stock, bundles and specials with your preferred NZ retailer.

7. Furuno GP-1971F 9" combo

Furuno has strong support in New Zealand, with local retailers and distributors stocking their sounders and accessories. The GP‑1971F is a 9‑inch GPS/chartplotter fish finder combo that appeals to skippers who want dependable performance, clear target returns, and a straightforward helm experience on Kiwi waters.

Why it made our list

The GP‑1971F earns a spot for its reputation for robust sonar performance and practical usability. It’s the kind of unit you fit once and trust—whether you’re reading reef edges, bait balls or contour changes—without cluttering your dash or complicating your day.

• Dependable clarity: Designed to give confident read‑outs on structure and fish sign.
• 9-inch visibility: A readable screen size for tinnies, trailer boats and small wheelhouses.
• Practical chartplotter tools: Plan routes, mark waypoints and run split pages with charts/sonar.
• NZ-backed support: Widely stocked locally with accessories and service channels.

Best for

If your priorities are reliability, clean returns and a fuss‑free interface, this Furuno combo suits everyday NZ inshore, harbour and lake missions, and holds its own for coastal runs in settled weather.

• Inshore structure hunters: Pinning rock‑to‑sand and weed lines.
• Lake trolling and prospecting: Following contours, holding lines on drop‑offs.
• Tinnies to small hardtops: A tidy footprint with clear daylight readability.

Charts and transducer options in NZ

Choose NZ chart coverage that matches the way you fish; many Kiwi anglers opt for Navionics or C‑MAP depending on unit compatibility and preferred features like relief shading. Transducer selection should match your hull and fishing depth.

• NZ charting: Pick coverage for your coast/lakes with the contour detail you need.
• Transom mount: Simple, effective for most trailer boats and kayaks.
• Through‑hull/in‑hull: Consider for glass/alli hulls or higher‑speed, deeper work.
• Confirm compatibility: Check exact chart and transducer support for your GP‑1971F before purchase.

Typical NZ pricing

As a 9‑inch combo from a premium marine brand, expect mid‑to‑upper tier pricing among “fish finders NZ” options. Bundles with an imaging/CHIRP transducer cost more than head‑unit‑only, and prices move with exchange rates and seasonal promos. Check current stock and specials with your preferred NZ retailer.

8. Lowrance Hook Reveal 7 TripleShot

If you’re chasing a solid, no‑fuss 7-inch combo for small Kiwi boats and kayaks, the Hook Reveal 7 TripleShot is a smart entry point. It’s compact, readable and comes as a practical package that helps you find structure and stay on track without blowing the budget—exactly what many “fish finders NZ” buyers need for inshore and lake missions.

Why it made our list

This unit focuses on what matters: clear views, simple controls and an all‑in‑one transducer that keeps installation tidy on tinnies and kayaks. It’s a confidence‑builder for first sounder owners and a dependable backup for seasoned skippers.

• Straightforward interface: Easy to learn, quick to use on the water.
• All‑in‑one transducer: A tidy transom‑mount package for versatile day‑to‑day fishing.
• Compact footprint: Fits small consoles without crowding the dash.
• Proven brand ecosystem: Backed by Lowrance’s NZ presence and dealer support.

Best for

If you want reliable returns and basic charting on a sensible budget, this 7‑inch combo nails the brief for everyday NZ conditions.

• First sounder buyers: Clear guidance without feature overload.
• Kayaks and tinnies: Light, compact and easy to mount.
• Weekend inshore/lake trips: Reading edges, channels and bait sign.

Charts and transducer options in NZ

Pick NZ chart coverage that matches where you actually fish—coastal regions or inland lakes. The included transducer keeps installs simple on small boats; if you need through‑hull or in‑hull options, confirm compatibility and any module requirements with your local retailer before upgrading.

• NZ charting: Choose coverage for your coast or lake network.
• Transom‑mount first: Simple, effective for most trailer boats and kayaks.
• Alternate installs: Ask a NZ dealer about hull‑specific options.

Typical NZ pricing

As a 7‑inch combo, expect entry‑to‑mid tier pricing among “fish finders NZ” picks. Bundles cost more than head‑unit‑only, and prices move with exchange rates and promotions. Check current stock, bundle contents and specials with your preferred NZ store.

Final thoughts

The right fish finder is the one that suits your boat, your water, and how you actually fish. Use screen size, transducer pairing, and NZ chart coverage as your north stars. For inshore and lakes, Side/Down Imaging with a tidy transom-mount often wins; if you’re rigging a bigger hull, factor in through‑hull options. Pricing shifts with exchange rates and bundles, so always check what’s in the box and that it’s compatible with your hull and style.

If you’re still weighing up options, a quick chat with a local goes a long way. Compare bundles, get install pointers, and check stock or pickup times with the team at Action Outdoors. You’ll leave with a combo that makes sense for Kiwi conditions—and the confidence to run straight to sign on your next mission.