Top 10 Electric Boat Winches For NZ Trailers: 2025 Guide

Picture this: you’ve spent a day on the water and now it’s time to load your boat—except instead of straining over a manual winch, you press a button and watch the boat glide onto your trailer. For more and more Kiwi boaties, that’s no longer just a dream. Electric boat winches are rapidly becoming the go-to upgrade for trailer owners across New Zealand, prized for their effortless operation, enhanced safety, and ability to make solo retrievals a breeze.

But with so many models on the market—each promising different capacities, features, and levels of reliability—how do you know which one will truly deliver when it counts? In this guide, you’ll discover the essential factors every buyer should weigh up before choosing an electric winch, from capacity and cable type to safety compliance and after-sales support unique to New Zealand conditions. We’ll break down the top 10 electric boat winches available for NZ trailers in 2025, ranging from compact units for tinnies to heavy-duty powerhouses for big centre consoles, catering to a variety of budgets and needs. By the end, you’ll have the confidence to select a winch that matches your boat, your trailer, and your peace of mind.

How to choose the right electric boat winch for your NZ trailer

Picking the right electric winch isn’t just about grabbing the most powerful model on the shelf. It’s about matching your boat’s weight, trailer setup and daily usage to the winch’s specs and features. Below are the key factors to weigh up before investing—understanding these will save you headaches at the ramp and ensure safe, reliable operation in New Zealand conditions.

Capacity vs boat weight

A solid rule of thumb is choosing a winch rated at 1.5–2× your boat’s weight. This buffer handles extra drag, incline resistance and reduces strain on the motor. For example, a 1,200 kg boat calls for a winch capacity between 1,800 kg and 2,400 kg. In code form:

1,200 kg × 1.5 = 1,800 kg
1,200 kg × 2.0 = 2,400 kg

This approach ensures you won’t overload the winch during launches or retrievals.

Motor power and voltage

Most trailer winches in NZ run on 12 V DC, drawing from your tow vehicle or a dedicated battery. Motor power—often listed in horsepower (HP) or kilowatts (kW)—directly affects pulling force and line speed. A higher-power motor will pull faster under load, but at a cost of increased current draw. If you regularly haul heavier craft, stepping up from a 1.3 HP unit to a 3 HP model can make a noticeable difference in performance.

Rope material: synthetic vs steel cable

Synthetic lines (like SK75 Dyneema) are lightweight, float on water and resist corrosion—ideal for saltwater use. Steel cable is tougher against abrasion and generally more affordable, but it’s heavier and prone to rust if not regularly maintained. Consider how often you’ll launch in rough surf or moor near rocks when choosing between the two.

Gear ratio and line speed

Gear ratios such as 153:1, 136:1 or 166:1 determine the trade-off between pulling power and speed. A 166:1 ratio offers more pulling force at a slower speed, while 136:1 delivers quicker boat retrieval but slightly less grunt. Match your preference: faster line speed if you’re time-poor, or higher mechanical advantage for heavier loads.

Control options: wired & wireless remotes

Wired remotes remain foolproof and cost-effective, but wireless keyfobs add freedom to position yourself safely clear of pinch points. Look for remotes with a clear on/off switch or dead-man feature that cuts power when released—this adds a layer of safety during operation.

Mounting, footprint & free-spooling clutch

Check the footprint of your winch against your trailer’s winch plate. You’ll also want a free-spool clutch or quick-release lever to let line out easily when launching. A compact design minimises drilling and makes fitting simpler, especially on trailers with limited real estate.

Budget considerations

Entry-level electric winches fall in the $300–$500 bracket, covering basic needs for small boats. Mid-range units ($500–$900) often offer higher-capacity motors and synthetic ropes, while premium models ($900+) deliver advanced features like IP67-rated seals and faster line speeds. Balance cost against how frequently and heavily you’ll use the winch.

Brand reputation, warranty & support

Buying from a respected brand or local distributor ensures reliable warranty cover and access to spare parts. NZ boaties often lean towards suppliers backed by good service networks—this can be invaluable if you need replacement cables, remotes or bearings down the track.

Local availability & after-sales service

Since Action Outdoors currently doesn’t stock electric winches, it pays to buy from specialist marine or trailer suppliers with NZ-based stock. Quick access to parts and expert advice can make all the difference when you’re gearing up for a long weekend on the water.

Ensuring safety and compliance for electric winches on NZ trailers

Operating an electric winch on a boat trailer involves more than just matching capacity and features. In New Zealand, there are specific regulations and best practices aimed at protecting you, your equipment and other road users. From wiring standards to regular inspections, adhering to these requirements helps avoid costly fines, breakdowns and, most importantly, accidents.

AS/NZS electrical installation standards

All trailer-mounted electric winches must comply with New Zealand’s wiring rules under AS/NZS 3001:2008 and appliance safety standards in AS/NZS 3820:2009. Key points include:

• Correct cable sizing to handle the winch’s maximum current draw
• Use of marine-grade connectors and sealed fuse assemblies
• Proper earthing and cable routing to prevent chafing or water ingress

Following these standards ensures your winch installation remains safe, durable and fit for NZ’s harsh weather and roadside conditions.

Warrant of Electrical Fitness (WoEF)

Trailers equipped with an electric winch require a current Warrant of Electrical Fitness (WoEF) before they can be towed on public roads. You can find guidance on obtaining or renewing a WoEF from WorkSafe New Zealand: https://www.worksafe.govt.nz/topic-and-industry/energy-safety/electrical-and-gas-safety-requirements-for-caravan-motorhome-and-boating/. Inspectors will check:

• That the 12 V system, including winch wiring, meets approved installation practices
• Labels and documentation are in place
• Fuses, switches and isolators are correctly rated and accessible

Keeping your WoEF up to date avoids roadside infringements and ensures your trailer’s electrical system is legally compliant.

Professional installation by licensed electricians

DIY wiring might seem cost-effective, but 12 V DC systems can be surprisingly complex. A licensed electrician will:

1. Select the correct cable gauge and connector types
2. Securely mount isolators, fuses and earth points
3. Test voltage drop under load to confirm performance

Certified installers hold the qualifications to perform a safe, code-compliant fit-out—reducing the risk of shorts, arcing or fire.

Maritime NZ winch-gear inspection guidelines

Beyond electrical safety, Maritime NZ recommends regular inspections of the winch mechanism itself. Their winch-gear guidelines (https://www.maritimenz.govt.nz/commercial/safety/health-and-safety/winch-gear/) cover items such as:

• Checking for sheave and drum wear
• Inspecting cable or rope for fraying, corrosion or broken strands
• Examining shackles, hooks and safety chains for deformation
• Verifying brake function and clutch operation

These checks should form part of every launch cycle or at least a monthly maintenance routine, especially for commercial or frequent users.

Routine maintenance & common hazards

Keeping an electric winch in top shape means scheduling simple upkeep tasks and following safe operating practices:

• Wash down saltwater and grit, then lubricate moving parts with appropriate greases
• Tighten bolts, replace worn cables or straps, and swap out batteries every 2–3 years
• Always stand clear of the winch’s line of pull and avoid wearing loose clothing
• Use a dampener on the line to reduce recoil risk in case of a snap

By combining proper maintenance with awareness of potential hazards, you’ll protect your gear—and yourself—every time you hit the ramp.

1. Electric Winch 3000 lb (1,360 kg) Wireless 12 V – Sunriseint – Best for Compact Boats

The Sunriseint 3,000 lb (1,360 kg) wireless winch is a top choice if you need reliable, no-fuss retrieval for smaller boats. Its compact footprint and lightweight design suit tight trailer setups, while the remote-control operation lets you stay safely clear of the tow path during launches and recoveries.

Specifications

• Capacity: 3,000 lb (1,360 kg)
• Motor: 1.34 HP parallel series, 12 V DC
• Gear Ratio: 153:1
• Rope: 4.8 mm × 12.2 m SK75 Dyneema synthetic

Key Features

• Wireless remote control for safe, hands-off operation
• Cam-style clutch enables smooth free-spooling when launching
• IP65-rated housing protects electronics from dust and spray
• Lightweight assembly minimises added trailer weight

Pros & Cons

• Pros
  • Excellent power-to-weight ratio for dinghies and runabouts
  • Corrosion-resistant synthetic rope floats on water and resists fraying
  • Fits standard trailer winch plates for an easy install
• Cons
  • Line speed slows under maximum load
  • Wireless range may be reduced by large metallic structures
  • Synthetic rope benefits from an occasional UV-protective treatment

Ideal Applications

This winch is perfect for weekend tinnies, small runabouts or ATV trailers—any scenario where compact size and simplicity count. Solo boaters will appreciate the remote-control freedom and clutch-assisted free-spool for stress-free launching.

Price and Availability

Expect to pay around NZD $550–$650. You can find the Sunriseint 3,000 lb wireless winch through marine specialists or directly on the manufacturer’s site: Sunriseint Electric Winch 3000 lbs.

2. BLA Electric Winch 2500 lb (1,134 kg) – BLA Model 2500 for Small Trailers

For trailers paired with light runabouts or compact centre consoles, the BLA Model 2500 strikes an excellent balance between performance and price. It’s aimed at boaties who need reliable recovery power without the bulk of larger units. With a 2,500 lb capacity and straightforward controls, this winch makes solo launching a cinch and fits neatly on most standard trailer winch plates.

Specifications

• Capacity: 2,500 lb (1,134 kg)
• Cable: 4.5 mm × 15 m galvanised steel cable
• Gear Ratio: 153:1

Key Features

• Power-in and power-out functionality for precise boat placement
• Free-spooling clutch lever for easy line payout during launches
• Rugged steel drum and sealed gearbox for corrosion resistance
• Simple wired handheld remote with integrated dead-man switch

Pros & Cons

• Pros
  • Affordable entry point for occasional users
  • Steel cable offers high abrasion resistance and low stretch
  • Straightforward installation on most trailer frames
• Cons
  • Steel cable requires regular lubrication to prevent rust
  • Wired remote limits operator mobility behind the boat
  • Moderate line speed compared to premium models

Ideal Applications

The BLA Model 2500 is perfect for trailers hauling boats up to around 5.3 m in length—think small fishing tinnies, runabouts or inflatable RIBs. It’s well suited to casual weekend fishermen and those who prefer a no-nonsense setup that works every time.

Price and Availability

You can find the BLA Electric Winch 2500 lb through authorised marine equipment suppliers around New Zealand, with pricing typically in the NZD $450–$550 range. For detailed specs and stockist information, see the official BLA product page: BLA Electric Winches 2500–3000–3500.

3. BLA Electric Winch 3000 lb (1,361 kg) – BLA Model 3000 for Medium Boats

Stepping up from the Model 2500, the BLA Model 3000 offers an extra edge when it comes to towing medium-sized boats. With a slight bump in capacity and a thicker cable, this winch is tuned for trailers carrying centre-console tinnies, family runabouts or inflatables up to around 5.6 metres. Its dependable performance makes solo or tandem launches feel as smooth as possible, without the bulk of a heavy-duty professional unit.

Specifications

• Capacity: 3,000 lb (1,361 kg)
• Cable: 5 mm × 15 m galvanised steel cable
• Gear Ratio: 153:1

Key Features

• Power-in and power-out control for precise boat placement
• Free-spooling clutch lever simplifies line payout when launching
• Rugged steel drum and sealed gearbox deliver corrosion resistance
• Standard wired handheld remote with safety dead-man switch

Pros & Cons

• Pros
  • Higher load capacity than entry-level models
  • Steel cable offers excellent abrasion resistance and minimal stretch
  • Straightforward mounting on most trailer winch plates
• Cons
  • Heavier overall weight compared to 2,500 lb units
  • Steel cable requires regular greasing to ward off rust
  • Wired remote limits user mobility during operation

Ideal Applications

The BLA Model 3000 is perfect for trailers hauling boats up to about 5.6 metres—think mid-sized dinghies, trailer-able centre-consoles and family runabouts. It strikes a sweet spot between power and practicality, making it a dependable choice for weekend anglers and small-scale charter operators alike.

Price and Availability

Expect to invest around NZD $550–$650 for the BLA Model 3000. It’s available through authorised marine and trailer equipment suppliers across New Zealand. For more details on stockists and specifications, visit the BLA range page: BLA Electric Winches 2500–3000–3500.

4. BLA Electric Winch 3500 lb (1,587 kg) – BLA Model 3500 for Larger Trailers

When you’re stepping up to larger runabouts or family-sized centre consoles, the BLA Model 3500 delivers the extra grunt you need without breaking the bank. Building on the same proven design as the 2,500 lb and 3,000 lb units, this winch bumps capacity up to handle heavier loads and rougher launch conditions. It’s a solid choice for boaties who tow vessels up to around six metres.

Specifications

• Capacity: 3,500 lb (1,587 kg)
• Cable: 5.5 mm × 15 m galvanised steel
• Gear Ratio: 153:1

Key Features

• Power-in / power-out control for accurate positioning
• Free-spooling lever for easy line payout during launches
• Sealed gearbox and drum for improved corrosion resistance
• Rugged steel construction designed for frequent use

Pros & Cons

• Pros
  • High load rating ideal for larger boats and rough ramps
  • Steel cable resists abrasion and offers minimal stretch
  • Straightforward fit onto most standard trailer winch plates
• Cons
  • Heavier than lower-capacity models, adding to trailer tongue weight
  • Requires regular cable lubrication to prevent rust
  • Wired remote limits operator mobility behind larger trailers

Ideal Applications

The BLA Model 3500 is tailored for trailers carrying boats up to 6 m—think family runabouts, larger dinghies or entry-level centre consoles. Its robust build makes it well suited to operators who launch frequently or deal with steep, rocky ramps where extra pulling power is a must.

Price and Availability

You’ll typically find the BLA 3500 lb winch priced between NZD $600–$700. Available through authorised marine and trailer equipment suppliers nationwide, this model can be ordered via the official BLA range page: BLA Electric Winches 2500–3000–3500.

5. Atlantic Cadet Electric Winch 2000 lb – Economical Entry-Level Option

For those seeking a straightforward, budget-friendly winch for very light craft, the Atlantic Cadet 2,000 lb model ticks all the boxes. It covers the essentials—sturdy steel cable, a simple wired remote and even a manual crank backup—without padding the cost with high-end bells and whistles.

Specifications

• Capacity: 2,000 lb (908 kg)
• Cable: 4.8 mm × 9 m galvanised steel
• Voltage: 12 V DC
• Gear Ratio: 153:1

Key Features

• Wired handheld remote with dead-man safety switch
• Cam-style adjustable clutch for controlled free-spooling
• Quick-release mounting bracket for fast removal
• Emergency hand crank for manual retrieval if the battery is flat

Pros & Cons

• Pros
  • Very wallet-friendly entry point
  • Durable steel cable with low maintenance needs
  • Manual crank offers peace of mind at remote ramps
• Cons
  • Heavier than synthetic-rope alternatives
  • Slower line speed under load compared to premium units
  • Wired remote restricts operator movement

Ideal Applications

This winch is perfect for weekend tinnies, small inflatables or PWC trailers under 4 m, where launches are infrequent and simplicity is key. The emergency crank and clutch settings make it a reliable companion at less-developed boat ramps.

Price and Availability

Retailing from approximately NZD 350–450, the Atlantic Cadet 2,000 lb electric winch can be ordered through select marine and trailer equipment suppliers. For full specifications and stockist details, visit the official Atlantic Cadet product page: Atlantic Cadet Electric Winches.

6. Atlantic Cadet Electric Winch 3000 lb – Versatile Mid-Range Choice

If you found the Atlantic Cadet 2,000 lb model reliable but need a bit more muscle, the 3,000 lb version jumps in with extra pulling power while retaining the same user-friendly design. It’s a solid step up for boaties who regularly launch medium-sized boats but don’t require the heft (and cost) of premium heavy-duty winches.

Specifications

• Capacity: 3,000 lb (1,361 kg)
• Cable: 5.4 mm × 9 m galvanised steel
• Voltage: 12 V DC
• Gear Ratio: 153:1

Key Features

• Wired handheld remote with integrated dead-man switch for safe, precise control
• Cam-style adjustable clutch for smooth free-spooling when launching
• Quick-release mounting bracket lets you remove the winch in seconds
• Emergency crank handle provides manual retrieval if power is unavailable

Pros & Cons

• Pros
  • Increased capacity handles boats up to about 5.5 m
  • Proven steel cable resists abrasion and minimises stretch
  • Simple install on most standard trailer winch plates
  • Manual crank adds backup security at remote ramps
• Cons
  • Heavier than the 2,000 lb model, adding extra tongue weight
  • Line speed slows under maximum load compared with lighter units
  • Steel cable needs regular lubrication to prevent corrosion

Ideal Applications

This mid-range winch is tailored for trailers carrying runabouts, inflatable RIBs or small centre-consoles up to 5.5 metres. Weekend fishos, family cruisers and PWC owners will appreciate the blend of capacity, reliability and straightforward operation.

Price and Availability

Retailing at approximately NZD 450–550, the Atlantic Cadet 3,000 lb electric winch is available through select marine and trailer equipment suppliers. For full specifications and ordering details, visit the official Atlantic Cadet range: Atlantic Cadet Electric Winches.

7. Electric Winch 5000 lb (2,268 kg) Steel Cable 12 V – Sunriseint – Heavy-Duty Performance

When you need serious pulling power for larger boats, the Sunriseint 5,000 lb (2,268 kg) winch delivers. Its robust steel cable and powerful 3.8 HP motor make light work of heavy craft, while the IP67-rated housing stands up to the harshest marine environments. Whether you’re hauling centre consoles, fishing charter boats or larger runabouts, this heavy-duty winch offers reliable performance and peace of mind at the ramp.

Specifications

• Capacity: 5,000 lb (2,268 kg)
• Motor: 3.8 HP (2.8 kW), 12 V DC
• Gear Ratio: 136:1
• Cable: 6.3 mm × 12 m galvanised steel

Key Features

• Auto load-holding brake for secure stops under full load
• IP67-rated sealed housing protects against dust, spray and saltwater
• Fast line speed for efficient launches and recoveries
• Power-in/power-out control with free-spool clutch for quick line payout
• Rugged steel drum and sealed gearbox designed for heavy use

Pros & Cons

• Pros
  • Exceptional pulling capacity suited to heavy trailers and larger vessels
  • Strong steel cable resists abrasion, with minimal stretch under load
  • IP67 rating ensures long-term durability in marine conditions
  • Smooth brake control adds safety when handling heavy boats
• Cons
  • Heavier and larger footprint adds to trailer tongue weight
  • Steel cable requires regular greasing to prevent corrosion
  • Higher current draw demands a well-sized battery and wiring

Ideal Applications

This winch is ideal for trailers carrying boats from 6 m upwards—think centre-console fishing boats, deep-V cruisers and light commercial vessels. Operators who launch frequently, or on steep or rough ramps, will benefit from the fast line speed and secure braking.

Price and Availability

Expect to invest around NZD $1,200–$1,400 for the Sunriseint 5,000 lb electric winch. It’s available through specialist marine and trailer equipment suppliers in New Zealand. For full details and ordering, see the manufacturer’s site: Sunriseint Electric Winch 5000 lb.

8. TRAXION High-Line Speed Electric Winch – Premium Range for Fast Retrieval

Traxion has been supplying New Zealand boaties with premium trailer winches for over 25 years, partnering with industry leaders like Superwinch and ComeUp. Their high-line-speed range delivers rapid boat retrieval—from lightweight PWC winches to heavy-duty models ready for large centre-consoles and light commercial vessels.

Specifications & Model Range

• Capacity: 2,500 lb to 8,000 lb (1,134–3,629 kg)
• Voltage: 12 V DC (selected heavy-duty versions available in 24 V)
• Motor Power: 2 kW–5 kW (approx. 2.7–6.7 HP)
• Gear Ratios: 136:1 for fast line speed, 166:1 for maximum pulling force
• Line Material: Choice of Dyneema synthetic rope or galvanised steel cable
• IP Rating: Typically IP67 for superior dust and water protection

These winches cater to everything from small PWC and runabouts to larger family boats and entry-level charter vessels.

Key Features

• Rapid line speeds—up to 35 m/min under moderate loads
• Robust aluminium housing with powder-coat finish to resist corrosion
• Integrated load-holding brake and sealed wet-clutch for smooth stops
• Available with wired or wireless remotes featuring dead-man safety mode
• Full NZ-based technical support and warranty service

Pros & Cons

• Pros
  • Exceptional retrieval speed reduces ramp time
  • Broad capacity range suits diverse trailer setups
  • Premium materials withstand harsh saltwater environments
  • Backed by expert local support and comprehensive warranties
• Cons
  • Premium pricing above entry-level models
  • Heavier units draw significant current—requires a robust battery setup
  • Stocked only through selected marine and trailer specialists

Where to Explore the Full Range

For detailed specifications and to find the right model for your trailer, check out Traxion’s high-line speed winches. Whether you’re after a swift-retrieve PWC winch or a heavy-duty hauler, Traxion offers premium solutions designed for fast, reliable boat recovery.

9. Electric Winch 5000 lb (2,268 kg) Dyneema Cable – Trade Tested – UV & Corrosion Resistant

The Trade Tested 5,000 lb (2,268 kg) electric winch combines heavy-duty pulling capacity with the advantages of a synthetic line that’s both UV-stable and corrosion-resistant. Its lightweight design and sealed aluminium housing make it an excellent choice for boaties who demand robust performance in harsh marine environments without the maintenance overhead of steel cable.

Specifications

• Capacity: 5,000 lb (2,268 kg)
• Motor: 2.9 kW (approx. 3.9 HP), 12 V DC
• Gear Ratio: 166:1
• Rope: 6 mm × 12 m Dyneema synthetic fibre

Key Features

• UV-stabilised Dyneema rope floats and resists abrasion
• IP66-rated, corrosion-proof aluminium housing
• Automatic load-holding brake secures heavy loads
• Free-spool clutch for rapid line payout
• Wired remote with dead-man switch for safe control

Pros & Cons

• Pros
  • Significantly lighter than steel-cable alternatives, reducing tongue weight
  • Synthetic rope won’t rust or fray, even with regular saltwater exposure
  • High 166:1 gear ratio offers excellent pulling force on steep ramps
  • Sealed housing protects internals from grit and moisture
• Cons
  • Synthetic rope still needs periodic UV and wear inspections
  • Line speed under load is slower compared with lower-ratio models
  • Higher price bracket reflects premium materials and design

Ideal Applications

This winch excels on trailers carrying centre-console boats, PWCs or small commercial vessels, where every kilogram of saved weight and ounce of reliability matters. It’s equally at home on rocky backcountry ramps or exposed coastal slips, thanks to its low-maintenance synthetic line and sealed electronics.

Price and Ordering

You can expect to invest around NZD $950–$1,050 for the Trade Tested 5,000 lb Dyneema winch. For full specifications and to place an order, head to: Electric Winch 12 V 5000 lb – Trade Tested.

10. Fulton XLT 10,000 lb (4,536 kg) Electric Trailer Winch – Trojan – Best for Large Boats

When it comes to hauling larger vessels—think centre-console cruisers, deep-V hulls or boats up to 26 ft—the Fulton XLT 10,000 lb winch stands in a league of its own. Designed and distributed in New Zealand by Trojan, this heavy-duty electric trailer winch combines brute strength with user-friendly controls and built-to-last materials. Whether you’re running charter operations or simply towing your weekend cruiser, the XLT delivers smooth, safe retrievals time after time.

Specifications

• Capacity: 10,000 lb (4,536 kg)
• Motor: DC powered (first fully DC-powered marine winch)
• Gear ratio: 10:1 planetary gearbox for balanced speed and torque
• Strap: Heavy-duty webbing with swivelling hook
• Controls: Wireless remote included; power-in/power-out functions
• Free-spool clutch: Manual override with standard tools
• 3-position guide: Ensures strap winds evenly on the drum
• Corrosion resistance: Sealed housing and stainless-steel fastenings
• Dimensions: 305 mm (W) × 406 mm (L) × 311 mm (H)
• Weight: 11.2 kg (24.7 lb)

Key Features

• Rugged strap assembly floats and resists kinking
• IP65-rated electronics protect against dust and spray
• Integrated light and control switches simplify night-time launches
• Three-position roller guide keeps webbing aligned, preventing wear
• Manual override clutch ensures you can still retrieve your boat if the battery is flat

Pros & Cons

• Pros
  • Unmatched 10,000 lb capacity for large boats and heavy loads
  • Effortless wireless operation allows safe, hands-off control
  • Durable construction built to withstand saltwater environments
  • Manual override backup gives peace of mind on remote ramps
• Cons
  • Premium price point reflects its professional-grade performance
  • Larger footprint and weight add to trailer tongue load
  • Requires a robust battery and wiring to handle higher current draw

Ideal Applications

This winch is tailored for boaties towing vessels up to 26 ft—perfect for serious anglers, charter operators and family cruisers who demand reliable performance on steep or rocky ramps. Its powerful motor and auto load-holding brake make solo launches a breeze, even under challenging conditions.

Price and Availability

Retailing at around NZD $1,080 (incl GST), the Fulton XLT 10,000 lb Electric Trailer Winch is available through Trojan’s New Zealand network. For full details and to secure your unit, visit the Fulton XLT 10,000 lb Electric Trailer Winch product page.

Frequently asked questions about electric boat winches

If you’ve still got questions about picking, installing or running an electric winch on your trailer, the answers below cover the fundamentals and point you to further resources.

Can you put an electric winch on a boat trailer?

Absolutely. Electric winches are commonly fitted to boat trailers to simplify launches and retrievals—especially if you’re going solo. The main consideration is selecting a winch with enough capacity: aim for roughly 1.5× your boat’s weight to handle drag, slopes and a safety margin. For more on capacity selection, see Biltema NZ’s guide.
(Source: Biltema NZ)

Aside from capacity, you’ll need to check that your trailer’s mounting plate can accept the new winch, and that the wiring and certificates of electrical fitness meet New Zealand regulations.

How heavy of a winch do I need for my boat?

A simple rule of thumb is a 2:1 ratio of boat weight to winch capacity (for basic loads), with many boaties opting for a 1.5:1–2:1 safety factor. For example:

2,200 lb boat ÷ 2 = 1,100 lb minimum capacity  
2,200 lb boat × 1.5 = 3,300 lb recommended capacity  

This helps ensure you won’t overload the winch on steep or rough ramps.
(Source: Dutton-Lainson selection guide)

How do I choose an electric winch?

Picking the right winch isn’t just about capacity. You’ll want to weigh up:

• Load matching (1.5–2× boat weight)
• Motor power (HP/kW) and voltage (12 V DC)
• Rope type (lightweight synthetic vs durable steel cable)
• Gear ratio (e.g. 136:1 for speed vs 166:1 for torque)
• Control options (wired handheld vs wireless keyfob)
• Mounting footprint and free-spool clutch
• Budget brackets and total cost of ownership
• Brand reputation, warranty terms and access to spare parts

For a deeper dive into these buyer considerations, NovaWinch has a handy overview.
(Source: NovaWinch’s buyer’s guide)

How do electric boat winches work?

At their core, electric winches use a 12 V DC motor to spin a drum that coils or uncoils your rope or cable. Press “in” and the motor drives the drum through a gearbox (with ratios like 136:1 or 166:1), multiplying torque to pull your boat aboard. Reversing the switch lets you pay line out, while an integrated brake or load-holding mechanism keeps the load secure when you stop.

Key components include:

• Motor: delivers the raw rotational force
• Gear train: multiplies torque at the expense of speed
• Drum: manages line winding and payout
• Brake/clutch: holds and releases the load safely
• Remote control: wired or wireless for convenient operation

For a full breakdown of the mechanics, see WinchHire’s explanation.
(Source: WinchHire’s guide)

Ready to power up your boat trailer

You’ve now got a solid grasp on what to look for—capacity, motor power, rope type, gear ratios and the all-important safety and compliance requirements unique to New Zealand. Equipping your trailer with the right electric winch isn’t just about convenience; it’s about ensuring every launch and retrieval is smooth, predictable and safe, no matter who’s at the helm.

Once you’ve picked the model that best suits your boat’s weight and your trailer’s setup, don’t forget the finer details: correctly sized cables, quality mounting hardware, battery isolators and a reliable remote or switch. These accessories might seem small, but they’re essential for a trouble-free installation and long-term peace of mind.

If you’re ready to take the next step, explore our range of trailer accessories, wiring kits and expert advice at Action Outdoors. Whether you need help matching the perfect winch to your boat or sourcing that last splice kit, our team is here to help you get back on the water—faster and safer than ever.