Waders NZ: 8 Top Stores, Types, Brands & Prices
You need waders for fishing but you're not sure where to buy them in New Zealand. Should you get chest waders or hip waders? What about breathable versus neoprene? And which stores stock decent brands at fair prices? The options can feel overwhelming when you just want reliable gear that keeps you dry on the water.
This guide covers 8 top stores across New Zealand where you can buy quality waders and wading boots. You'll see what types each store carries, which brands they stock, typical price ranges, and what makes each one worth considering. Whether you're surf casting on the coast, fly fishing in alpine rivers, or chasing trout in local streams, you'll find stores that match your fishing style and budget.
1. Action Outdoors
Action Outdoors operates both a physical store in Auckland and an online shop, giving you the flexibility to browse in person or order from anywhere in New Zealand. The store specialises in fishing tackle, marine equipment, and outdoor gear, with a focus on quality products that suit local conditions. You'll find staff who understand what works in New Zealand waters, whether you're fishing harbours, rivers, or coastal areas.
Store overview
The Auckland location lets you examine waders before buying, which matters when you need the right fit and material. Their online platform covers the full product range, and they ship across New Zealand. Action Outdoors stocks equipment for recreational and commercial fishing, so they understand the demands different environments place on your gear.
Wader types and brands
You can choose between chest waders, thigh waders, and hip waders depending on where you fish. The store carries both neoprene and breathable options, giving you choices based on water temperature and season. They stock trusted brands that perform in New Zealand conditions, with options suitable for both casual anglers and serious fishing enthusiasts.
Wading boots and accessories
Action Outdoors provides wading boots with rubber soles that comply with New Zealand's restrictions on felt-soled footwear. You'll also find wader repair kits, waterproof bags, and thermal layers to wear underneath in cold water.
New Zealand regulations ban felt soles in many fishing areas to prevent the spread of didymo, so rubber-soled boots are essential.
Price range and value
Expect to pay between $150 and $500 depending on wader type and features. Budget-friendly options suit occasional use, while premium models offer better durability for frequent fishing trips.
Best for NZ anglers
Action Outdoors works well if you prefer in-person service in Auckland or need gear quickly through their online shop with local shipping.
2. Hunting & Fishing New Zealand
Hunting & Fishing New Zealand operates more than 35 stores nationwide, making them one of the most accessible retailers for fishing gear across the country. You'll find comprehensive wader selections both in their physical locations and through their online platform, backed by staff who fish regularly in New Zealand waters. The chain focuses on stocking gear that handles local conditions, from coastal surf zones to alpine rivers.
Store overview
The nationwide network means you can visit a store near you for fitting and advice, then shop online for future purchases once you know your size. Their stores carry seasonal stock rotations, so you'll see fresh inventory that matches current fishing conditions. Staff members often have firsthand experience with the products they sell, which helps when you need guidance on choosing between different wader styles.
Wader types and brands
You'll find chest waders, thigh waders, and hip waders from established brands that specialise in fishing equipment. The store stocks both neoprene waders for cold water and breathable waders for warmer conditions. Their range includes entry-level options for beginners and premium models for anglers who fish multiple times per week throughout the season.
Wading boots and accessories
Hunting & Fishing stocks rubber-soled wading boots that meet New Zealand's environmental requirements. You can also purchase wader belts, gravel guards, and repair patches in the same visit. The stores carry layering clothing designed to work underneath waders, keeping you comfortable in different water temperatures.
Proper wading boots matter just as much as quality waders, since they determine your stability and safety on slippery riverbed rocks.
Price range and value
Budget options start around $120 for basic hip waders, while premium chest waders reach approximately $550. Mid-range models between $250 and $400 offer solid durability for regular use.
Best for NZ anglers
The chain suits you if you value nationwide accessibility and want to try on waders before committing to a purchase, particularly useful when you're buying your first pair.
3. Marine Deals
Marine Deals specialises in online marine and fishing equipment with competitive pricing across their full product range. You'll find a straightforward website layout that makes browsing different wader styles quick and efficient, without unnecessary marketing fluff getting in the way. The retailer focuses on value-oriented options that work for recreational anglers who fish regularly but don't need expedition-grade equipment.
Store overview
This online-only retailer ships throughout New Zealand from their warehouse, keeping overhead costs lower than traditional retail stores. You can browse their full inventory at any time, and they update stock regularly to reflect seasonal fishing patterns. Marine Deals handles both marine and freshwater fishing gear, so you'll see waders alongside other tackle and boat equipment in one order.
Wader types and brands
The store stocks chest waders, thigh waders, and hip waders in various materials suited to different water temperatures. You can choose between neoprene models for winter fishing and lighter breathable options for summer conditions. Their range covers budget-friendly brands that deliver decent performance without premium price tags.
Wading boots and accessories
Marine Deals provides rubber-soled wading boots that meet New Zealand's environmental standards for river and lake fishing. You'll also find replacement boot laces, wader storage bags, and repair adhesives to maintain your gear between seasons.
Buying wader accessories alongside your waders saves on shipping costs and ensures you have everything ready before your next fishing trip.
Price range and value
Prices typically range from $90 for basic hip waders to around $380 for full chest waders. The store positions itself in the budget-to-mid-range segment, making them accessible for anglers who fish occasionally or want backup waders.
Best for NZ anglers
Marine Deals works well if you're shopping primarily on price and comfortable ordering waders online without trying them on first. Their straightforward approach suits anglers who know their size and want decent gear without paying retail store margins.
4. Desolve Supply Co
Desolve Supply Co focuses exclusively on fishing equipment for fresh and saltwater environments, with a curated selection rather than overwhelming inventory. Their online platform serves anglers across New Zealand who want modern wader designs without sifting through dozens of brands. The company positions itself between budget retailers and premium specialty shops, offering three distinct wader models that each serve specific fishing conditions.
Store overview
This online-only retailer keeps their product line focused on three wader models, making your decision straightforward when you know what conditions you'll face. Desolve ships nationwide from their New Zealand base, and their streamlined approach means faster processing than stores managing hundreds of SKUs.
Wader types and brands
You can choose between the Drift Wader at $499.99, the Rapid Wader at $279.99, or the Rise Wader for different fishing applications. All three models come in slate, navy/tan, or black/charcoal colour options. The brand designs their own waders specifically for New Zealand fishing conditions rather than importing generic international models.
Wading boots and accessories
Desolve stocks wading boots compatible with their wader models, using rubber soles that meet local environmental requirements. Their accessory range stays focused on items that directly support wader use rather than general fishing tackle.
Buying a wader system from one brand ensures all components work together properly, from boot attachment points to sizing consistency.
Price range and value
Prices span $279.99 to $499.99, positioning them in the mid-to-upper range. The focused selection means you're choosing between performance tiers rather than navigating multiple brands at similar price points.
Best for NZ anglers
Desolve suits you if you prefer a simplified selection and want waders designed specifically for New Zealand conditions rather than adapted international models.
5. Patagonia New Zealand
Patagonia operates a dedicated New Zealand website alongside physical retail locations, bringing their premium outdoor gear philosophy to local anglers. The brand built its reputation on durable, environmentally conscious products, and their waders reflect that commitment with high-quality materials designed for years of use. You'll find technical specifications and detailed sizing guides on their platform, helping you choose waders that match your fishing conditions without guesswork.
Store overview
The online platform serves all of New Zealand with detailed product information and customer support from staff who understand local fishing environments. Patagonia's physical stores let you examine waders in person and get fitted properly before committing to a purchase. Their approach focuses on selling fewer products that last longer rather than offering dozens of budget alternatives.
Wader types and brands
Patagonia stocks breathable chest waders and stockingfoot designs suited to New Zealand's varied water conditions. Their waders feature waterproof membranes and reinforced knees for durability on rocky riverbeds. You'll find models designed specifically for fly fishing, with thoughtful features like chest pockets positioned for easy access while you're casting.
Wading boots and accessories
The store provides rubber-soled wading boots engineered to pair with their stockingfoot waders, ensuring proper fit and performance. You can purchase wading socks, gravel guards, and repair materials directly from Patagonia to maintain your gear between seasons.
Premium waders cost more upfront but often deliver better value over time through extended lifespan and superior warranty support.
Price range and value
Expect prices from $500 to $800 for Patagonia waders, positioning them at the top end of the market. The brand backs products with solid warranty coverage and repair services.
Best for NZ anglers
Patagonia suits you if you're serious about fly fishing and want waders built to last multiple seasons with proper care and maintenance.
6. Land & Sea
Land & Sea operates as a specialist fly fishing retailer serving New Zealand anglers through their online platform with free nationwide shipping. The store focuses specifically on fly fishing equipment rather than general fishing tackle, which means their wader selection reflects the demands of rivers and streams where trout and salmon thrive. You'll find established international brands alongside local expertise that understands what works in New Zealand's alpine and lowland waters.
Store overview
This online-focused retailer eliminates physical store costs while maintaining strong relationships with premium wader manufacturers. Land & Sea's website provides detailed product specifications and sizing information, helping you make informed decisions when ordering remotely. Their free shipping policy across New Zealand removes a common barrier when purchasing bulky items like chest waders online.
Wader types and brands
The store stocks Simms and Patagonia waders, two brands respected among serious fly anglers for durability and technical performance. You can choose between breathable chest waders designed for different seasons and fishing intensities. Their selection targets anglers who prioritise quality over budget pricing.
Wading boots and accessories
Land & Sea provides rubber-soled wading boots that pair with stockingfoot wader designs from their featured brands. You'll find compatible accessories including wading staffs, gravel guards, and repair kits.
Matching boots to your wader brand ensures proper fit at the ankle seal, which prevents water entry during deep wading.
Price range and value
Expect prices from $450 to $750 for premium waders, reflecting their focus on established international brands rather than budget alternatives.
Best for NZ anglers
Land & Sea suits you if you're committed to fly fishing and want access to Simms or Patagonia waders with free delivery across New Zealand.
7. The Fly Shop NZ
The Fly Shop NZ specialises in fly fishing equipment through their online platform, serving anglers across New Zealand who target trout, salmon, and other freshwater species. Their focused approach to fly fishing means you'll find waders selected specifically for river and stream conditions rather than general fishing applications. The store maintains relationships with suppliers who understand the demands placed on gear in New Zealand's varied water environments.
Store overview
This online retailer provides detailed product descriptions and technical specifications that help you choose waders suited to your fishing style. The Fly Shop stocks equipment for both weekend anglers and dedicated fly fishermen who spend significant time on the water throughout the season.
Wader types and brands
You can choose between thigh waders, waist waders, and chest waders depending on your typical fishing depth and mobility needs. The store carries both breathable waders for hot summer days and neoprene waders for cold water conditions. Their selection includes established brands trusted by the fly fishing community for consistent performance across multiple seasons.
Wading boots and accessories
The Fly Shop provides rubber-soled wading boots alongside wading socks designed to pair with stockingfoot wader designs. You'll find accessories including gravel guards and wader repair materials to extend the life of your equipment between fishing trips.
Choosing breathable waders for summer fishing keeps you comfortable during long days on the water when neoprene would cause overheating.
Price range and value
Prices typically range from $200 for basic thigh waders to approximately $600 for premium chest waders with advanced features. Mid-range options between $350 and $450 deliver solid performance for regular fly fishing.
Best for NZ anglers
The Fly Shop suits you if you're focused on fly fishing and want waders specifically chosen for river and stream environments common in New Zealand.
8. Complete Angler
Complete Angler operates as a specialist fishing retailer serving New Zealand anglers through their online platform and physical stores. The company focuses on comprehensive fishing tackle and equipment rather than general outdoor gear, which means their wader selection reflects practical needs across different fishing environments. You'll find products chosen specifically for local conditions, from coastal estuaries to inland rivers.
Store overview
The retailer maintains both online and in-store shopping options, giving you flexibility to examine waders before purchasing or order remotely with delivery across New Zealand. Complete Angler's staff understand local fishing patterns and can recommend waders based on your target species and preferred fishing locations. Their inventory includes equipment for both recreational and more dedicated anglers who fish regularly throughout the year.
Wader types and brands
You can purchase Mainlander Neoprene Chest Waders featuring 3.5mm neoprene construction with thinsulate insulation in the boots. The design includes adjustable suspenders and a waist belt for secure, comfortable fitting during extended fishing sessions. These waders suit cold water conditions common in New Zealand's rivers and coastal areas during autumn and winter months.
Wading boots and accessories
Complete Angler provides waders with integrated thinsulate boots rather than separate stockingfoot designs, simplifying your setup. The boots use rubber soles that comply with New Zealand's environmental regulations for freshwater fishing.
Integrated boot waders eliminate the need to purchase separate wading boots, which can reduce your initial investment when starting out.
Price range and value
Prices for their neoprene chest waders typically sit in the $150 to $300 range, positioning them as accessible options for regular anglers. The neoprene construction delivers warmth without reaching premium price points.
Best for NZ anglers
Complete Angler suits you if you need affordable neoprene waders for cold water fishing and prefer the convenience of integrated boots over separate boot systems.
Next steps
You now have a clear picture of where to buy quality waders across New Zealand, from budget-friendly options to premium models built for serious anglers. Each store offers different strengths, whether you value nationwide accessibility, specialist fly fishing expertise, or straightforward online pricing without retail margins.
Before purchasing, measure your inseam and check sizing charts carefully since waders that fit poorly will leak or restrict your movement on the water. Consider the water temperatures you'll face most often to decide between neoprene and breathable materials. Your fishing location matters too, as river wading demands different features than surf casting or boat fishing.
Once you've sorted your waders, complement them with proper fishing equipment for your target species. Browse our fishing nets for NZ waters to find nets sized appropriately for mullet, flounder, snapper, and other common catches. Quality nets paired with reliable waders give you the complete setup for productive fishing sessions throughout the season.