Telescopic Fishing Rod: 16 Best NZ Picks & Prices for 2025

Hunting for a telescopic fishing rod you can stash in the ute or carry‑on without ending up with a flimsy toy? Telescopics are brilliant for travel and spur‑of‑the‑moment missions, but quality varies wildly. Some extend cleanly, hold guide alignment, and cast like a decent two‑piece; others twist, corrode, or fold under modest load. Whether you’re surfcasting around the coast, flicking soft baits off the rocks, or sneaking a quick cast on the canals or a bush stream, nailing the right length, power and materials for NZ conditions—at a fair local price—is the hard part.

This guide cuts the noise. We’ve shortlisted 16 of the best options available to Kiwis in 2025—covering surf, trout, baitcasting and family combos—with current NZ pricing and where to buy (Action Outdoors picks plus trusted local retailers and safe import choices). For each pick you’ll see key specs and build, what it’s best for, price, and why it made the list. We’ll finish with a quick buyer’s brief so you know what to expect from a telescopic rod and how to avoid the common pitfalls. On to the picks.

1. Action Outdoors (NZ) — curated telescopic rods and combos

If you want a telescopic fishing rod that won’t fold on first contact, start with a trusted local curator. Action Outdoors stocks and sources sensible travel rods and grab‑and‑go combos for Kiwi conditions, and can steer you between compact 8ft spin sticks, 10ft trout specialists, and 12ft surf telescopics that actually cast and survive our coastlines.

Key specs and build

Expect proven materials and hardware rather than novelty features. We prioritise carbon/graphite or carbon‑glass blanks for strength‑to‑weight, corrosion‑resistant guides/seats, and clean section fit so guides stay aligned. Representative NZ models include an 8' Okuma Altera telescopic spin, a 12ft Shimano Eclipse telescopic surf rated 6–10kg, and the 10ft Balzer Edition IM‑12 trout rod.

• Blanks: Carbon/graphite or carbon‑glass for travel durability
• Guides/seat: Stainless/corrosion‑resistant components for salt and canals
• Lengths: 8ft spin, 10ft trout/canals, 12ft surf (6–10kg)

Best for

• Travel and glovebox missions: Compact collapsed lengths for the ute or carry‑on
• Beginner surfcasters: 12ft telescopics that make first casts easy
• Trout/canal anglers: Longer 10ft options for line control and reach
• Families: Simple spin combos that are ready to fish

Price in NZ (2025)

Current NZ market examples to set expectations:

• Okuma Altera 8' telescopic spin: around $139.99
• Shimano Spectrum Plus 12' telescopic surf: often $59.00 on special (reg. $70.00)
• Balzer Edition IM‑12 10' telescopic trout: $195.00 on special (reg. $320.00)
• Surf combo (e.g., Shimano Hyperloop 6000 + 12' telescopic): commonly available locally

Where to buy in NZ

Shop Action Outdoors online or visit the Auckland store for advice, pickup, and aftersales support. Prefer a specific brand? Ask the team to source it or point you to an equivalent telescopic rod or combo suited to your target species and budget.

Why we picked it

You get local curation, practical NZ‑ready gear, and human advice. Action Outdoors covers fishing, marine and RV—so if your telescopic rod needs to live on a boat or in a camper, they’ll match materials and hardware to the environment, not just the price tag.

2. Okuma Altera telescopic 806 spin rod — best value spin

If you want a no‑nonsense telescopic fishing rod that feels “proper” without blowing the budget, the Okuma Altera Telescopic 806 (8'0") Spin Rod is a sweet spot. It’s a true travel‑ready spin stick from a mainstream brand, with a proven NZ price point and easy local availability—ideal for keeping in the ute for impromptu harbour or lake sessions.

Key specs and build

You’re getting a full‑length 8‑footer in a collapsible format, set up for spinning. The “806” model code indicates the 8'0" length in the Altera line. It’s built as a portable rod that extends cleanly and packs down small enough for glovebox, backpack, or carry‑on use—far more convenient than a one‑piece without the sketchiness of ultra‑cheap telescopics.

• Type: Telescopic spinning rod
• Length: 8'0" (Altera 806)
• Brand: Okuma (NZ‑available)

Best for

• Travel and everyday carry: Keep it in the car for spontaneous missions
• Harbours, wharves, lakes and canals: General light‑to‑medium spinning
• Soft baits, spinners and small metals: Versatile lure work for common NZ species

Price in NZ (2025)

• Seen at $139.99 for the Okuma Altera Telescopic 806 Spin Rod (indicative current retail)

Where to buy in NZ

Commonly stocked by major NZ fishing retailers, including national chains. If you prefer a local specialist, ask Action Outdoors to source the Altera or point you to an equivalent telescopic spin option that matches your budget and target species.

Why we picked it

• Value from a known brand: A fair NZ price without rolling the dice on a no‑name import
• Practical 8ft length: Enough reach for shore casting while still packing down for travel
• Easy to find and support locally: Straightforward to buy, gift, or replace sections if needed
• Confidence pick for beginners to intermediates: A sensible starting point for a telescopic spin rod that won’t feel like a toy

3. Okuma Revenger telescopic spin combo — best budget combo

If you’re kitting out the family or want a glovebox setup that’s ready to fish, an Okuma Revenger telescopic spin combo is the sensible “buy once, go fishing now” option. You get a telescopic spinning rod paired to Okuma’s Revenger entry‑level reel line—simple, reliable, and easy to live with—without paying for features you won’t use on casual missions.

Key specs and build

Built as a true plug‑and‑play combo, the focus is on straightforward materials and a clean collapse/extend action so beginners don’t wrestle with sections or guide alignment. Expect a durable composite or fibreglass‑leaning blank for toughness, corrosion‑resistant guides and reel seat, and a Revenger spinning reel that’s made for no‑fuss casting and retrieve.

• Combo format: Telescopic spinning rod + Okuma Revenger spin reel
• Blank: Tough composite/fibreglass for durability over sensitivity
• Hardware: Stainless‑style guides and a corrosion‑resistant reel seat
• Use case: Collapses small; extends to a practical shore/wharf length

Best for

• Beginners and families: Easy to set up, forgiving under load
• Holiday/camper kits: Lives in the boot or cabin and is always ready
• Wharves, estuaries, lakes: General bait and light lure work
• Spare/backup rod: Affordable insurance for mates’ trips

Price in NZ (2025)

Firmly in the budget end of the market for branded combos. Retailers often run sharp specials on starter telescopic sets; check current in‑store tags for the latest deal.

Where to buy in NZ

Widely available through NZ fishing retailers and big‑box sports/outdoors stores. If you want local advice or an equivalent at the same money, ask Action Outdoors to match a telescopic spin combo to your species and line class.

Why we picked it

• Trusted brand at entry price: Better backup and parts than no‑name kits
• Ready out of the box: Reel, rod, and sensible hardware to get started
• Travel‑friendly: Collapses small without overcomplicating setup
• Great first step: Lets new anglers learn on gear that’s simple and dependable

4. Shimano Eclipse telescopic surf 12ft (6–10kg) — easy first surf rod

Getting into surfcasting? The Shimano Eclipse Telescopic Surf Rod in 12ft (6–10kg) is designed for newcomers, giving you genuine beach‑casting reach without the hassle of a long one‑piece. It collapses for travel, extends to a full surf length, and covers the line class most Kiwis start with on open beaches and gentle rock ledges.

Key specs and build

The Eclipse sits in Shimano’s entry surf line, but the headline here is usability: a proper 12‑footer with a forgiving 6–10kg rating and a telescopic format that packs down small for the car, camper or carry‑on. It’s a straightforward, beach‑ready tool rather than a gimmick.

• Type: Telescopic surfcasting rod
• Length: 12ft extended
• Line class: 6–10kg
• User focus: “Made especially for newcomers to fishing”

Best for

• First surf setup: Learning to cast swing sinkers and simple pulley or running rigs
• Beaches and light rock work: Targeting kahawai, gurnard, school snapper and pan‑sized species
• Travel and storage constrained anglers: Packs down for the boot or bach without a rod tube

Price in NZ (2025)

Positioned in the entry‑level surf bracket. Retail pricing can vary by store and specials; check current tags at your preferred retailer. If you’re weighing options, note that Shimano’s Spectrum Plus 12ft telescopic surf rod is often discounted locally, which gives a useful reference point for the Eclipse’s tier.

Where to buy in NZ

Available through major NZ fishing retailers (the 12ft 6–10kg Eclipse Telescopic Surf is listed by well‑known national stores). If you want advice on pairing it with a reel, line and terminal tackle, the team at Action Outdoors can recommend a ready‑to‑cast setup or suggest an alternative if stock is tight.

Why we picked it

• Beginner‑friendly brief: Clearly aimed at newcomers, with sensible specs that build confidence
• Real surf length: 12ft helps load up and send baits past the shore break
• Practical line class: 6–10kg covers common NZ surf species without overgunning the outfit
• Travel‑ready: Telescopic convenience for baches, campers and spur‑of‑the‑moment beach missions

5. Shimano Spectrum Plus telescopic surf 12ft — budget surf upgrade

If you want a beach rod that packs down small yet still sends a bait past the first bar, the Shimano Spectrum Plus Telescopic Surf in 12ft is the classic value play. It’s a known name, an easy‑casting length, and it frequently goes on sharp special in NZ—making it a smart step up from no‑name telescopic sticks without stretching the budget.

Key specs and build

You’re getting a full surf length in a collapsible package, built for simple rigs and steady beach work. It’s part of Shimano’s Spectrum Plus series and is widely used locally—even turning up in surf combos—so replacing or pairing gear is straightforward.

• Type: Telescopic surfcasting rod
• Series/Model: Shimano Spectrum Plus
• Length: 12ft (telescopic)
• Use: General NZ surf and light rock duty

Best for

• Budget surfcasters: A dependable starter or spare that isn’t a toy
• Travel and storage: Collapses for the boot, bach or camper
• Kahawai, gurnard, pan snapper: Simple pulley/running rigs and swing sinkers
• Backup beach rod: Keep one ready for mates or quick missions

Price in NZ (2025)

Aggressively priced and commonly discounted.

• Seen at $59.00 on special (was $70.00, GST incl) at NZ retailers

Where to buy in NZ

Stocked by major NZ fishing retailers and often featured in surf combos (you’ll see the Spectrum Plus 12ft paired with reels like Shimano’s Hyperloop 6000 at big‑name stores). If you want help matching reel, line and terminal tackle, Action Outdoors can set up a ready‑to‑cast package or point you to an in‑stock equivalent.

Why we picked it

• Real 12ft reach: Easier loading and better distance than short telescopics
• Frequent bargains: The recurring $59 special makes it a low‑risk buy
• Proven locally: Common in NZ surf combos, so parts and pairing are easy
• Travel‑friendly: Telescopic convenience without ditching the beach length you need

6. Shimano Hyperloop 6000 + Spectrum Plus 12ft telescopic combo — surf-ready combo

Want a beach outfit you can grab and go? This factory‑matched combo pairs Shimano’s Hyperloop 6000 spin reel with the Spectrum Plus 12ft telescopic surf rod, giving new surfcasters a sensible, travel‑friendly package that’s easy to cast and simple to live with. It’s listed locally as an affordable option for those dabbling in surf or light rock fishing, so you’re not guessing on reel/rod balance.

Key specs and build

The focus here is practicality over frills: a real 12‑foot surf length that collapses for storage, and a 6000‑size reel that’s a natural fit for beach rigs. Sections extend cleanly, guides line up easily, and the combo is built for bait fishing and metal slugs rather than fussy finesse work.

• Rod: Shimano Spectrum Plus telescopic surf, 12ft collapsible format
• Reel: Shimano Hyperloop 6000 spin (matched from factory)
• Build intent: Entry surf/rock casting with simple rigs and swing sinkers
• Carry/storage: Packs down for the boot, bach or camper

Best for

• First surf outfit: Turnkey combo for learning beach casting
• Light rock/wharf sessions: Kahawai, gurnard, pan snapper territory
• Travellers and space‑limited fishos: Telescopic rod makes transport painless
• Backup/beach spare: Keep one rigged for mates or quick evening runs

Price in NZ (2025)

Positioned as an entry‑level surf combo and frequently promoted by big retailers. For reference, the Spectrum Plus 12ft telescopic rod alone is often seen on special around $59 (reg. $70); expect the full combo to sit above that—check current shelf pricing.

Where to buy in NZ

Available through major NZ fishing retailers (the combo is listed by national stores such as Burnsco). Prefer tailored advice or an equivalent build? Ask Action Outdoors to assemble a surf‑ready telescopic combo with line and terminal tackle to suit your local beach.

Why we picked it

• Balanced, brand‑name pairing: No guesswork on reel size or rod match
• 12ft reach with telescopic convenience: Real casting length without storage pain
• Beginner‑friendly and affordable: A low‑risk way to get onto the sand fast
• Easy to service and replace: Widely stocked components from a trusted maker

7. Balzer Edition IM-12 telescopic trout 10ft — trout and canals specialist

When you want trout reach without lugging a long two‑piece, the Balzer Edition IM‑12 Telescopic Trout Rod in 3.05m (10ft) hits a sweet spot. That extra length is gold on the Mackenzie Country canals and bigger rivers—mending line, steering drifts, and lifting over weed beds—yet it collapses small enough to live in a pack or camper.

Key specs and build

Purpose‑built as a trout telescopic, this Balzer gives you a true 10‑footer that extends cleanly and packs down compactly for travel. The “Edition IM‑12” sits above bargain‑bin sticks, with a finish and section fit aimed at consistent guide alignment and predictable loading—exactly what you want for longer leaders and controlled presentations.

• Type: Telescopic trout rod (multi‑section, collapsible)
• Length: 3.05m (10ft) extended
• Format: Travel‑friendly, compact collapsed length
• Use focus: Trout rivers, canals, lake edges

Best for

• Canals and tailraces: Extra reach for drift control, light rigs, and careful pressure on big fish
• Large rivers and lake mouths: Mending line in wind, sweeping long banks and drop‑offs
• Travel trout missions: Pack‑down convenience for utes, campers and carry‑on

Price in NZ (2025)

You’re buying a specialist trout telescopic at a sharp local deal.

• Special: $195.00
• Regular price: $320.00
• Shipping is calculated at checkout with the NZ retailer that lists it.

Where to buy in NZ

Available from Balzer’s NZ online store. If stock is limited or you need a matched reel/line setup for canals or rivers, ask a specialist retailer like Action Outdoors for an equivalent 10ft telescopic trout option and a ready‑to‑fish build.

Why we picked it

• True trout length in a travel format: 10ft reach without storage pain
• NZ‑listed with real pricing: An attainable upgrade over generic imports
• Confidence on canals and big water: Longer rod = better line control and landing angles
• Step‑up quality: A dedicated trout telescopic that feels purpose‑built, not novelty gear

8. Jarvis Walker telescopic spin combo — family-friendly bargain

After a glovebox setup the whole whānau can share without stressing the budget? Jarvis Walker’s telescopic spin combos are the classic “buy it, stash it, go fishing” choice. They’re simple, tough enough for wharves and estuaries, and collapse small so they’ll live happily in the boot or camper until the next mission.

Key specs and build

This is a straightforward pairing of a telescopic spinning rod with an entry‑level spin reel, focusing on ease of use and durability over finesse. Sections extend and lock with minimal fuss, and the hardware is built to handle beginner knocks and salty splashes without babying.

• Format: Telescopic spin rod + matched spin reel (combo)
• Build priority: Toughness and simplicity for casual use
• Use case: Bait and light lures off beaches, rocks, wharves and lake edges

Best for

• Families and first‑timers: Quick to set up, forgiving under load
• Holiday kits and campers: Collapses small; easy to store and transport
• Spare/loaner outfit: Handy backup for mates on last‑minute trips
• Generalist shore fishing: Kahawai, sprats, small snapper and trout stockies

Price in NZ (2025)

Sits firmly in the budget bracket for branded combos. Expect frequent specials; check current shelf pricing with your preferred retailer before you buy.

Where to buy in NZ

Commonly offered by NZ tackle and big‑box outdoors retailers. If you can’t find stock, ask Action Outdoors to suggest an equivalent budget telescopic combo matched to your target species and line class.

Why we picked it

• True bargain combo: Brand‑name entry gear that gets you fishing now
• Travel‑friendly: Telescopic convenience without overcomplicating setup
• Family proof: Built for casual use, easy handling and low maintenance
• Great starter/backup: Ideal first outfit or dependable spare in the boot

9. Telescopic rod and reel combos at The Warehouse — lowest-price big-box pick

Need a cheap, same‑day telescopic fishing rod you can grab with the groceries? The Warehouse lists telescopic rods and rod‑and‑reel combos in its Reels & Rods category, making it an easy pick for a budget, no‑fuss setup. Quality is entry level, so go in with realistic expectations: these are for casual missions, kids, and holiday kits rather than hard fishing.

Key specs and build

Expect simple, collapsible spinning outfits aimed at convenience over finesse. Sections extend and retract for glovebox storage, with no‑frills hardware and straightforward grips. Some combos may arrive pre‑spooled; if not, add a basic mono and you’re away.

• Format: Telescopic spinning rod, often sold as a combo
• Portability: Compact collapsed length for car/pack
• Components: Basic, utility‑focused; minimal maintenance required
• Setup: Quick to assemble, guides easy to line up

Best for

• Kids and first‑timers: Low cost, forgiving gear for learning
• Holiday and bach kits: Lives in the boot, camper or garage
• Spare/loaner outfit: Handy backup for visiting mates
• Casual wharf/estuary/lake sessions: Bait and small lures

Price in NZ (2025)

Firmly in the budget bracket for big‑box retail. Prices vary by bundle and specials; check the current online listing or in‑store ticket for the sharpest deal.

Where to buy in NZ

Available nationwide through The Warehouse stores and online under their telescopic rods and reels category.

Why we picked it

• Lowest‑friction buy: Wide availability, easy to replace
• Genuine budget option: A simple way to try a telescopic fishing rod without over‑spending
• Family‑friendly: Good for casual use and teaching basics
• Practical tip: On first setup, align guides carefully and rinse with fresh water after any salt exposure to extend life

10. KastKing Blackhawk II telescopic rod — import all‑rounder favourite

If you’re happy to import and want a telescopic fishing rod that actually fishes like a “real” stick, the KastKing Blackhawk II is the enthusiast favourite. Hands‑on testers rate it for its one‑piece feel, sensible guide layout, and broad size range, making it a go‑anywhere option for NZ lakes, rivers and inshore salt.

Key specs and build

KastKing leans on a graphite‑based blank with composite/fibreglass elements, plus a clever guide system that supports the tip and reduces friction when cast. You can buy it as a spinning or casting model, and it collapses short for glovebox travel.

• Formats: Spinning and baitcasting
• Lengths: Approx. 6’6” to 8’ options
• Blank/materials: Graphite/composite/fibreglass blend
• Guide tech: Floating line guides; guides sit like a normal rod when extended
• Party trick: “Soloscopic” tech — multi‑section that fishes like a one‑piece

Best for

• Travel all‑rounder: One rod for road trips, tramps and carry‑on
• Freshwater: Trout canals, lakes, and river spin work
• Inshore salt: Harbours/estuaries for kahawai and pan snapper (light rigs)
• Truck/ute rod: Compact collapsed length, robust enough for daily carry

Price in NZ (2025)

Primarily an import item. Pricing varies by overseas seller and exchange rate; expect to add shipping and currency fees (and GST where applicable). Watch for periodic global specials.

Where to buy in NZ

Usually sourced direct from international retailers/marketplaces. Some NZ shops may occasionally land stock, but availability is inconsistent. Prefer local support? Ask Action Outdoors for a NZ‑backed alternative at a similar power/length.

Why we picked it

• Best‑in‑class feel for a telescopic: Widely reviewed as a standout that casts and loads like a one‑piece
• Versatile options: Multiple lengths and both spin/cast models cover most Kiwi missions
• Smart guide train: Floating guides help support the tip and smooth out casting
• Travel‑ready build: Collapses small without turning into a noodle
• Heads‑up: Some users note guide alignment can wander — extend sections carefully and check straightness before casting

11. Kingswell telescopic rod and reel combo — import travel combo

Travelling light but still want a rod and reel that feel sorted out of the box? The Kingswell telescopic spinning combo is a popular import because it collapses small, fishes smoothly for its class, and ships with a tidy carry case. It’s a genuine plug‑and‑play travel outfit rather than a novelty kit.

Key specs and build

This combo is designed to cast cleanly for a telescopic, with a crisp blank and a reel that doesn’t grind when you lean on it. The markings on the sections help you line up the guides, though you’ll still want to check straightness before each session.

• Format: Telescopic spinning rod + matched spinning reel (combo)
• Length: 1′10″ collapsed to 6′9″ extended (approx. per model)
• Blank: Japanese 24/30 ultra‑high‑density carbon fibre
• Reel: 5+1 stainless‑steel bearings, smooth drag, reversible handle (L/R)
• Inclusions: Carry case; travel‑friendly collapsed length

Best for

If you’re chasing a single travel combo that can handle most light NZ duties, this ticks the boxes. Keep targets sensible and it’s a handy all‑rounder.

• Road trips, tramps and carry‑on: Packs short; quick to deploy
• Freshwater: Trout, perch and canal lure work
• Inshore salt (light): Kahawai and pan fish with small metals/soft baits
• Fish size: Best under ~20 lb; not intended for heavy species

Price in NZ (2025)

Import‑only for most Kiwis. Pricing varies by seller and exchange rate; factor in shipping and GST collected at checkout. Compare landed cost against local telescopic combos before pulling the trigger.

Where to buy in NZ

Typically sourced from international retailers/marketplaces. NZ stock appears sporadically. Prefer local support or a set‑and‑forget surf/spin alternative? Ask Action Outdoors for a NZ‑backed telescopic combo at a similar power/length.

Why we picked it

• Travel‑ready combo: Rod, reel and case in one purchase
• Quality materials for the money: 24/30‑ton carbon blank and 5+1 bearing reel feel a step above bargain kits
• Smooth caster: Reviewers note easy casting and good distance for a telescopic
• User notes: Guide alignment can wander; take a moment to straighten sections before fishing, especially after transport

12. Magreel 24T carbon telescopic rod/combo — import saltwater budget

Chasing a cheap travel stick that won’t melt after a few salt sessions? Magreel’s 24T Carbon telescopic rods (sold as rod‑only or in combos) are a popular import because the blank and hardware lean into salt‑resistance without a scary price. They’re lightweight, pack short, and come in both spinning and casting formats.

Key specs and build

You’re buying on materials and portability here rather than brand prestige. The 24‑ton carbon blank keeps weight down, while the stainless reel seat is a sensible nod to corrosion control. Sizes span compact inshore lengths through to longer options, and the action is aimed at general lure/bait duty rather than finesse.

• Formats: Spinning and casting models
• Length range: 5.91’ – 10.82’ (model dependent)
• Blank: 24T carbon fibre (light and lively)
• Reel seat: Stainless steel (salt‑resistant)
• Notes: Affordable; relatively durable for the money; small butt can feel cramped when cranking

Best for

• Inshore salt: Harbours, estuaries and sheltered rock edges with small metals/soft baits
• Travel/back‑up rod: Lives in the ute or carry‑on for opportunistic sessions
• Freshwater crossover: Lakes and canals when space/weight matter

Price in NZ (2025)

Import pricing varies by seller, size and exchange rate. Expect budget‑tier landed cost; factor in shipping and GST at checkout.

Where to buy in NZ

Typically sourced via international marketplaces; NZ retail stock is sporadic. Prefer local support? Ask Action Outdoors for a NZ‑backed telescopic alternative with similar length/power.

Why we picked it

• Salt‑aware build for the price: 24T carbon blank and stainless seat are rare at this money
• Choice of spin or cast: Easy to match your preferred style
• Wide size range: From compact inshore options up to ~10.8ft models
• Practical import: A low‑cost way to add a telescopic fishing rod to your travel kit
  Tip: Rinse in fresh water after salt use and check guide alignment each session to keep it casting sweetly.

13. Aventur1 telescopic baitcasting rod — import baitcaster pick

Prefer a baitcaster but still want a compact travel rod? The Aventur1 telescopic casting rod is a solid import choice. Reviewers rate it as a true grab‑and‑go stick you can stash in the truck, with a familiar 7’ length that feels “right” for lure work and casts cleanly for a telescopic.

Key specs and build

This rod focuses on portability without turning noodly, pairing a graphite blank with a straightforward guide train. Setup takes a moment to get the guides straight, but once aligned it fishes well for its class.

• Type: Telescopic baitcasting rod
• Length: 7’
• Blank/material: RT2 graphite
• Powers: Options available (bass‑style)
• Notes: Compact collapsed length; guides are on the soft side and can bend

Best for

Keeps a casting outfit in play when storage is tight, especially for anglers who prefer thumb‑control and tight lure work.

• Travel and glovebox carry: Ready for spur‑of‑the‑moment sessions
• Lure fishing: Bass‑style techniques; general all‑round casting
• Enthusiasts: Anglers who already run baitcasting reels and want a portable rod‑only solution

Price in NZ (2025)

Import‑only for most Kiwis. Landed cost varies by seller and exchange rate; factor shipping and GST at checkout. It’s pricier than many telescopic sticks, but still well under true high‑end rods.

Where to buy in NZ

Usually imported from large overseas retailers (e.g., US outdoors chains) or marketplaces. If you’d rather buy local or want a NZ‑backed alternative, ask Action Outdoors for a comparable telescopic baitcasting option.

Why we picked it

A rare telescopic that suits baitcaster fans and still feels competent on the cast.

• Compact, truck‑friendly: Easy to stash and deploy
• Usable 7’ length: Versatile for common lure methods
• Casts well for a telescopic: Feels like a proper rod on the water
• Trade‑offs: Guides are a bit flimsy; alignment takes time; rod‑only (no reel) and relatively expensive for the category

14. Zebco 33 telescopic combo — best for kids and beginners

If you’re teaching someone their first cast, a spincast telescopic fishing rod removes most of the pain. The Zebco 33 telescopic combo is built for exactly that: push‑button casting, a compact collapsed length, and a forgiving fibreglass blank that shrugs off beginner knocks.

Key specs and build

This is a true plug‑and‑play combo: a telescopic rod paired with the classic Zebco 33 spincast reel, so new anglers can focus on fishing instead of line management. It extends to a full 6ft, yet folds small enough for a backpack or glovebox.

• Type: Telescopic spincast combo (rod + Zebco 33 reel)
• Length: 6' extended; collapses to ~19"
• Blank: Fibreglass (tough, beginner‑friendly)
• Comes pre‑spooled: Ready to fish out of the box
• Protector: Includes a rod‑tip cover
• Notes: Eyes can be fiddly to line up; not for big lures or big fish

Best for

Kids and first‑timers who want a quick win with minimum tangles. The push‑button cast is intuitive, and the compact size suits holidays and wharf sessions.

• Family camping/bach kits
• Wharves, ponds, lake edges
• Small baits, tiny spinners and floats

Price in NZ (2025)

Sits in the budget bracket for beginner combos. NZ pricing varies and the model is often import‑sourced; check current landed cost and compare with local entry combos before you buy.

Where to buy in NZ

Typically imported via international marketplaces; occasional local stock appears. Prefer local support or same‑day pickup? Ask Action Outdoors for a beginner‑friendly telescopic combo alternative at a similar price.

Why we picked it

• Easiest learning curve: Push‑button spincast keeps tangles to a minimum
• Travel‑ready: 6ft reach that collapses to ~19" with a tip protector
• Ready to fish: Pre‑spooled reel, simple setup
• Clear trade‑offs: Guide alignment needs care; keep targets small and lures light

15. Sougayilang telescopic rod and reel kit — ultra-budget import

Chasing the cheapest way to try a telescopic fishing rod without overthinking specs? Sougayilang’s rod‑and‑reel kits are the classic ultra‑budget import: portable, simple to set up, and widely available online. They’re fine for casual wharf or lake missions, but go in with realistic expectations on power, smoothness and longevity.

Key specs and build

These kits are built for convenience, not refinement. Listings typically bundle a telescopic spinning rod with a matching reel, sometimes adding a basic carry case, pre‑spooled line and a few terminal bits. Exact materials and lengths vary by model, so check the seller’s sheet before you buy.

• Format: Telescopic spinning rod + matching reel (kit)
• Portability: Compact collapsed length for glovebox or pack
• Hardware: No‑frills guides/seats; corrosion resistance varies by listing
• Inclusions: Often a case and basic line/lures (model dependent)

Best for

• Beginners and kids: Low‑cost kit to learn basics
• Holiday/bach setups: Lives in the boot or camper
• Spare/loaner outfit: Backup for visiting mates
• Light duty: Small lures/baits for trout stockies, kahawai, sprats

Price in NZ (2025)

Ultra‑budget import territory. Landed cost depends on seller, model and exchange rate; add shipping and GST at checkout. Compare against local entry combos for value.

Where to buy in NZ

Usually sourced from international marketplaces; NZ retail stock is sporadic. Prefer local backup? Ask Action Outdoors for a NZ‑supported telescopic combo at similar money.

Why we picked it

• Lowest barrier to entry: A cheap, all‑in kit to get you fishing today
• Travel‑friendly: Packs short; quick to deploy
• Widely available: Easy to replace or gift
• Trade‑offs: Quality control varies; reels can feel rough; guides need careful alignment; rinse after salt and check sections are firmly seated before casting

16. PLUSINNO telescopic spinning combo — plug-and-play starter kit

Want a simple, matched setup that collapses small and just works? PLUSINNO’s telescopic spinning combo is a popular import starter kit: a pre‑paired rod and reel that’s easy to store in the car or camper and quick to deploy for casual wharf, lake and estuary sessions. It’s a step up from novelty toys without chasing premium travel pricing.

Key specs and build

This is a convenience‑first combo: a telescopic spinning rod paired with a compatible spin reel so you’re not guessing on balance or seat fit. Sections extend and lock with minimal fuss and pack down short for travel. Listings vary by seller, so check the product sheet for exact length, action and any bundled extras (some bundles add line or a case).

• Format: Telescopic spinning rod + matched spinning reel (combo)
• Portability: Collapses short for glovebox/backpack/carry‑on
• Setup: Quick to assemble; align guides before first cast
• Care: Rinse after salt use; dry sections before collapse

Best for

• Beginners and casual anglers: Plug‑and‑play simplicity
• Holiday/bach kits: Lives in the boot or camper
• General light duty: Small baits, spinners and soft baits for trout, kahawai and pan fish
• Backup/loaner outfit: Handy spare for mates

Price in NZ (2025)

Usually import‑only. Landed cost depends on seller, model and exchange rate; factor in shipping and GST (often collected at checkout). Compare against local entry telescopic combos to see which gives better value on the day.

Where to buy in NZ

Commonly sourced via international marketplaces; occasional NZ stock appears. If you prefer local support or same‑week delivery, ask Action Outdoors for a NZ‑backed telescopic combo at similar length/power.

Why we picked it

• True starter combo: Rod and reel are pre‑matched so you can fish straight away
• Travel‑friendly: Collapses short without feeling like a novelty
• Good bridge option: Sits between ultra‑budget kits and pricier travel combos
• Real‑world tip: Keep targets modest, check guide alignment each session, and rinse after salt to extend life

Before you buy

Telescopic rods trade a little sensitivity and ruggedness for portability. Pick by the fishing you actually do: length for casting distance and line control, power for the rigs you’ll throw, and materials that won’t sulk in salt. Set expectations and they’re brilliant glovebox companions.

Quick checks before you tap “buy”:

• Collapsed length: Will it fit your pack, ute or carry‑on?
• Sections and fit: Fewer, tighter‑locking sections = fewer weak points.
• Guides: Align dead straight; look for corrosion‑resistant frames.
• Hardware: Stainless or similar reel seat; sensible EVA/cork grips.
• Ratings: Match line class and lure weight to your targets.
• Care: Rinse after salt, dry fully before collapsing, store loosely.

Still unsure? Get NZ‑specific advice, matched combos and pickup options from the team at Action Outdoors.