Top 10 Waterproof Marine Stereos In New Zealand For Boaters

New Zealand’s coastal waters present a stern test for onboard electronics: salt spray, driving rain and fierce UV exposure can quickly defeat ordinary audio gear. For boaters, a genuinely waterproof marine stereo is no longer an option but a necessity, ensuring clear sound and long-term reliability even in the harshest conditions.

Ingress protection (IP) ratings provide a uniform scale of resistance to dust and water ingress. The AS/NZS 3004.2 standard for marine electrical installations (https://www.standards.govt.nz/shop/asnzs-3004-2-2014) outlines these requirements; for a straightforward breakdown of IP codes, refer to this plain-English guide (https://www.lumis.co.nz/reference-information/ip-ratings).

While Maritime New Zealand does not mandate specific audio-system rules, following its general safety regulations is wise. Key references include Maritime Rules Part 91 on navigational safety (https://www.maritimenz.govt.nz/rules/all-rules/maritime-rules-part-91/) and Part 40A on vessel equipment standards (https://www.maritimenz.govt.nz/rules/all-rules/maritime-rules-part-40a/).

Key factors in our selection include:

• IP rating and chassis durability
• Power output and sound quality
• Connectivity options (Bluetooth, AUX, USB)
• UV resistance and corrosion protection
• Availability in New Zealand and price

The models that follow combine robust protection with impressive performance, making them ideal choices for Kiwi boaters in search of steadfast audio gear.

1. GME GR300 Marine Stereo Package

The GME GR300 Marine Stereo Package is a no-frills, high-performance unit from a brand that New Zealand boaties have trusted for decades. Its rugged, gauge-style design slots neatly into a single-DIN opening, while the choice of black or white fascia ensures it suits any helm layout. Backed by a one-year warranty, it’s built to stand up to our harsh coastal conditions.

Product Overview

GME has crafted the GR300 with simplicity and durability in mind. Its compact gauge form factor keeps the controls within easy reach, and the clear display makes station changes straightforward—even in choppy seas. Boaters will appreciate the tactile buttons and rotary volume knob, which remain easy to operate with wet hands or gloves.

Key Features

• IPX7 waterproof chassis (submersible to 1 m for up to 30 minutes)
• AM/FM tuner with RDS text display
• Bluetooth audio streaming for smartphones and tablets
• 3.5 mm AUX input for legacy devices
• 2 × 40 W RMS audio output

Pros

• Industry-leading waterproofing keeps the unit working after spray or short immersion
• Simple, glove-friendly controls are perfect for underway adjustments
• Supported by local GME dealers and service centres

Cons

• Modest power output compared with premium systems
• Speakers sold separately, so total kit cost can rise

Price & Where to Buy

Expect to pay around NZD 550–650. You can order the GME GR300 Marine Stereo Package from Boating & Outdoors, which ships nationwide.

2. Kicker 46KMC3 Marine Stereo

Ideal for larger vessels and power-hungry playlists, the Kicker 46KMC3 brings serious punch in a compact gauge-style unit. Its oversized rotary encoder and bright display make it simple to dial in the perfect station or track—even when the sun’s high and the spray is flying.

Product Overview

The 46KMC3’s marine-grade housing is built to survive salt, wind and water. Its form factor fits most standard gauge openings, while the intuitive interface features a single, glove-friendly knob for volume and menu scrolling. A generous display window shows track info or station details at a glance.

Key Features

• IP67 rating: fully dust-tight and waterproof to 1 m for 30 minutes
• Over 200 W peak power across four channels (approx. 50 W per channel)
• Connectivity for Bluetooth streaming, USB playback/charging, RCA inputs and AM/FM tuning
• USB port supports both audio playback and device charging

Pros

• Robust power output suits mid-sized and larger boats
• Large, easily operated controls work with wet hands or gloves
• Compatible with optional KRC12 wireless remote-commander

Cons

• To reach maximum performance, wiring upgrades may be necessary
• Display can be harder to read under direct sunlight

Price & Where to Buy

Retailing at approximately NZD 650–800, the Kicker 46KMC3 is available through SoundX NZ, with nationwide delivery and local support.

3. Fusion MS-RA210 Marine Stereo with XS Sports Speakers

For boaties seeking a true plug-and-play upgrade, the Fusion MS-RA210 Marine Stereo kit delivers both the head unit and a pair of XS Sports bracket speakers. Designed to match the demands of open-air craft, this bundle offers everything needed to get reliable, high-quality audio on the water without hunting for separate components.

Product Overview

The package combines the MS-RA210 head unit with two 6.5″ XS Sports speakers mounted on stainless steel brackets. The head unit’s single-DIN form factor fits neatly into most helm panels, while the speakers’ angled brackets ensure optimal sound projection over wind and spray. Fusion backs the entire system with a one-year warranty, reflecting confidence in both the electronics and the marine-grade speakers.

Key Features

• Built-in Class D amplifier for high efficiency and lower power draw
• Multi-Zone™ Technology lets you control separate audio zones independently
• Bluetooth streaming and Fusion-Link™ app support for wireless control and firmware updates
• Seamless integration with Garmin MFDs and compatible watches for remote operation
• UV- and salt-spray-resistant construction on both head unit and speakers

Pros

• Complete sound system out of the box—no need to source speakers separately
• Class D amplifier delivers clear sound with minimal battery drain
• Fusion-Link™ app keeps firmware up to date and offers intuitive remote control

Cons

• May require additional mounting hardware or panel trim for some helm layouts
• Positioned at a higher price point than standalone head units

Price & Where to Buy

Expect to invest around NZD 1,000–1,200 for the full kit. You can pick up the complete Fusion MS-RA210 system, including XS Sports speakers, from Parallel Imported NZ.

4. Fusion MS-RA60 Marine Stereo

The Fusion MS-RA60 slots into any standard single-DIN opening and pairs a compact footprint with a rugged, water-resistant front panel. Its 2.3″ monochrome bonded LCD ensures clear readability, while the simple button layout keeps operation fuss-free—ideal for hitting the waves without fussing over complex menus.

Product Overview

Fusion’s MS-RA60 is built for reliability and ease of use. The bonded LCD resists glare and UV damage, and the reinforced front panel carries IPX6 and IPX7 ratings for protection against heavy spray and brief immersion. Its single-DIN chassis makes retrofitting straightforward, whether you’re upgrading an existing stereo or fitting out a new helm.

Key Features

• Front panel rated to IPX6 (powerful water jets) and IPX7 (submersion to 1 m for 30 minutes)
• 180 W peak power output
• Bluetooth streaming and ANT+ connectivity for fitness devices or instruments
• Rear USB port for audio playback and device charging
• AM/FM tuner with RDS text display

Pros

• Exceptional ingress protection keeps the unit running in all conditions
• Bonded monochrome LCD offers high contrast and UV resistance
• Affordable entry point into Fusion’s marine audio range

Cons

• Monochrome display limits album art or advanced graphic feedback
• No onboard amplifier for driving large or multiple speaker arrays—external amp required for high-power setups

Price & Where to Buy

Expect to pay around NZD 450–550. The Fusion MS-RA60 Marine Stereo is available from Supercheap Auto NZ.

5. Fusion MS-RA70 Marine Stereo

Out on the water, you don’t want your helm to look like a gadget graveyard. The Fusion MS-RA70 fits neatly into any standard DIN slot yet packs serious marine-grade resilience. Its optically bonded monochrome LCD offers glare-free, high-contrast readouts, and the familiar button layout makes for fuss-free operation whether you’re cruising Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf or fishing the Marlborough Sounds.

Product Overview

Fusion’s MS-RA70 is designed as a straightforward retrofit solution. The head unit slides into any single-DIN opening and hooks directly into your existing wiring looms, so you can replace an ageing stereo in minutes. The robust chassis and front-panel sealing shrug off salt spray, rain and UV, while support for Garmin MFDs and Fusion-Link™ lets you control your music from the dash, wrist or smartphone.

Key Features

• Monochrome 2.3″ optically bonded LCD for superior visibility in bright sunlight
• Built-in Class-AB amplifier delivering up to 50 W RMS × 4 channels
• Multi-Zone™ Technology for independent audio zones (helm and cockpit)
• Bluetooth streaming, USB audio playback/charging and AM/FM tuner with RDS display
• Fusion-Link™ app and Garmin integration for remote control and firmware updates
• IPX6 water-jet and IPX7 immersion protection on the front panel

Pros

• Seamless retrofit upgrade into existing DIN slots
• Optically bonded display resists glare, UV damage and moisture
• Independent zone control for multi-area installations
• Wireless convenience via Fusion-Link™ and Garmin compatibility

Cons

• Monochrome interface lacks the visual flair of colour displays
• Lower peak output than the MS-RA210 kit—external amplification may be needed for larger speaker setups

Price & Where to Buy

Expect to invest around NZD 600–700. The Fusion MS-RA70 Marine Stereo is stocked by Dick Smith NZ, offering nationwide delivery and installation advice.

6. Boss Audio MGR350B Marine Stereo

The Boss Audio MGR350B delivers essential marine audio features at a price that won’t break the bank. Its standard gauge-size form factor means a straightforward swap for existing installations, while the UV-coated faceplate and conformal-coated circuit boards shrug off salt, spray and sun. A handy USB port even lets you top up your phone’s battery on longer passages.

Product Overview

The MGR350B is designed for boaters seeking a simple, reliable stereo without the premium price tag. It fits into most standard gauge openings, so installation is quick and painless. With wireless audio streaming, a USB slot and an AUX input, you can connect smartphones, tablets or legacy MP3 players in seconds. Plus, Boss backs this unit with a three-year warranty—unusual in this budget bracket.

Key Features

• IPX6 water-resistant front panel resists heavy spray
• Built-in 20 W RMS × 4-channel amplifier
• Bluetooth streaming for wireless music playback
• USB port for device charging and MP3 playback
• 3.5 mm AUX input for legacy audio devices
• UV-coated face and conformal-coated boards for corrosion protection

Pros

• Very affordable entry point to marine audio
• Generous three-year manufacturer’s warranty
• Simple controls, easy to operate underway
• Additional USB charging port keeps devices topped up

Cons

• Reports of condensation forming behind the display under extreme humidity
• Modest power output means it's best suited to smaller vessels or cockpit areas

Price & Where to Buy

You’ll find the Boss Audio MGR350B for around NZD 250–350, depending on import fees and shipping. It’s available from Amazon Global, with options for express delivery to New Zealand.

7. Infinity INF-PRV250 Marine Stereo

The Infinity INF-PRV250 brings solid audio performance to a rugged marine environment, combining a sturdy gauge-style faceplate with flexible connectivity. Its compact size makes it a neat fit for most helm layouts, while its marine-grade construction ensures reliable operation, even when salt spray and moisture are factors.

Product Overview

The INF-PRV250 features a sleek, round-face design that installs into standard gauge openings. Its marine-rated front panel repels water and UV, and the user interface combines large buttons with a central knob for effortless control. Whether you’re streaming playlists or tuning into local stations, this unit makes challenging conditions a non-issue.

Key Features

• IPX6-rated waterproof faceplate to resist heavy spray
• 20 W RMS × 4-channel amplifier for balanced sound across cockpit speakers
• Bluetooth audio streaming, USB input and AUX jack for versatile source options
• Dual preamp outputs for adding external amplifiers or subwoofers
• Optional wired or RF remote control to manage audio from anywhere on deck

Pros

• Sturdy build quality designed to endure harsh marine conditions
• Multiple remote-control options for flexible installation
• Clean, intuitive interface suitable for gloved or wet hands

Cons

• Non-standard dimensions may require custom mounting brackets
• No built-in colour display for album art or advanced visual feedback

Price & Where to Buy

You can purchase the Infinity INF-PRV250 Marine Stereo from Amazon, which ships to New Zealand.

8. Kenwood KMR-M328BT Marine Stereo

Navigating the squalls of the Bay of Plenty or cruising under the Marlborough sunshine demands audio gear that can cope with glare, spray and corrosion. The Kenwood KMR-M328BT rises to the challenge, combining smart voice control and robust marine-grade protection in a single gauge-style receiver. Its backlit, anti-glare LCD and toughened chassis make it an appealing upgrade for any helm.

Product Overview

Kenwood has designed the KMR-M328BT to fit into a standard gauge opening, so installation is swift and tidy. Its positive backlit display ensures clear visibility—even when the sun reflects off the waves—and the detachable faceplate offers simple theft deterrence. Under the hood, conformal-coated circuit boards and UV-resistant controls stand up to salt spray and harsh UV rays.

Key Features

• IPX6 water resistance on the front panel, protecting against heavy spray
• Built-in MOSFET amplifier delivering 22 W RMS × 4 channels for punchy, clear sound
• Bluetooth streaming with dual-device pairing and Amazon Alexa voice control
• Six-channel preamp outputs (4-volt front, rear, sub) for flexible system expansion
• 13-band EQ and Drive EQ function to compensate for engine and wind noise

Pros

• Voice control via Amazon Alexa keeps your hands free and your focus on the helm
• Advanced 13-band EQ and Drive EQ adapt sound to any conditions on the water
• Conformal-coated board and UV-treated front panel ensure lasting reliability

Cons

• At maximum volume levels some distortion can become noticeable
• Falls into a higher price bracket, reflecting its advanced features

Price & Where to Buy

Expect to spend around NZD 750–900 for the Kenwood KMR-M328BT. You can order it online from Amazon, with delivery options to New Zealand.

9. Pyle PLMRB29W Marine Stereo

For boaters on a tight budget, the Pyle PLMRB29W offers a full suite of features in a single-DIN package without breaking the bank. Its universal design fits most standard helm openings, and an integrated microphone adds hands-free calling—ideal for keeping your eyes on the horizon while taking calls on the move.

Product Overview

The PLMRB29W slots neatly into existing gauge holes or dashboard cut-outs, making it a straightforward drop-in replacement for ageing stereos. Despite its modest price, the front panel carries IP65 dust-tight and water-jet-resistant protection, safeguarding the controls and display from spray and debris. A built-in microphone lets you take calls without fumbling for your phone, while the familiar layout of buttons and volume knob keeps operation intuitive.

Key Features

• IP65 dust-tight and water-jet resistant front panel
• 75 W peak × 4-channel built-in amplifier
• USB/SD card slot for MP3 playback and device charging
• 3.5 mm AUX input and RCA pre-outs for expanded setups
• Bluetooth audio streaming with hands-free calling capability

Pros

• Exceptionally low price point for marine-grade audio
• Integrated microphone for safe, hands-free phone use
• Universal single-DIN design fits most boats without modification

Cons

• Bluetooth signal can be weak, especially in larger cockpits
• No adjustment for LCD backlight intensity in bright sunlight

Price & Where to Buy

Expect to invest around NZD 200–250 for the Pyle PLMRB29W. It’s widely available through Amazon, with shipping options to New Zealand.

10. Clarion GR10BT Marine Stereo

The Clarion GR10BT offers a sleek, gauge-hole design that meshes neatly with modern helm layouts. Its low-profile face hides in a standard 3-inch gauge cut-out, freeing up dashboard space and maintaining a clean aesthetic. Despite its compact footprint, this unit punches above its weight in features and endurance, catering to boaters who value both form and function.

Product Overview

Clarion’s GR10BT slips into any standard gauge opening, making installation quick without sacrificing style. The minimalist fascia and positive backlit LCD keep the display clear—even in bright sunlight—while the UV-protected controls shrug off sun and spray. Built-in Bluetooth lets you stream music or take calls wirelessly, and the front USB port doubles as a charging point for mobile devices.

Key Features

• IPX5 water-resistant front panel to guard against splashes and spray
• 16 W RMS × 4-channel amplifier (45 W peak) for balanced cockpit sound
• Bluetooth audio streaming with hands-free calling support
• Front USB port for music playback and device charging
• 3-band EQ for basic tone shaping
• UV-protected face and controls for corrosion resistance

Pros

• Compact gauge-hole mounting keeps the helm tidy
• Positive backlit LCD ensures legibility in all light conditions
• Front USB port doubles as a reliable charging outlet for phones

Cons

• Some users report occasional display fogging in high-humidity environments
• Modest power output best suited to small-to-medium speaker setups

Price & Where to Buy

You can pick up the Clarion GR10BT Marine Stereo from Crutchfield, which ships to New Zealand. Expect to invest around NZD 300–400, depending on shipping and import fees.

Which Waterproof Marine Stereo Should You Pick?

Selecting the ideal waterproof marine stereo means balancing its IP rating, power output, connectivity options and price against your vessel’s size and how you boat. If you need something that can handle brief immersion or heavy spray, an IPX7-rated unit like the GME GR300 or Fusion MS-RA60 is a smart choice. For larger craft or louder sound, the peak power of the Kicker 46KMC3 or the multi-zone setup of the Fusion MS-RA210 will deliver the volume and flexibility you want. On a tighter budget or fitting into a standard gauge hole? Consider the Boss Audio MGR350B or Pyle PLMRB29W for reliable performance at an entry-level price.

Installation style matters just as much as raw specs. Single-DIN models such as the Fusion MS-RA70 and Kenwood KMR-M328BT slot neatly into existing dash cut-outs, while gauge-mount stereos keep your helm looking clean and uncluttered. If you value app integration, voice control or remote-zone management, premium units like the Kenwood or Fusion headsets bring these extras to the table—perfect for hands-free operation and flexible sound zones.

Ultimately, matching each unit’s features and output to your boating habits ensures you get both value and durability on the water. Ready to find the perfect fit? Visit Action Outdoors’ full marine electronics range to compare specifications, pricing and availability in one place.