If you spend your weekends on the water or touring the country by camper, you’ve likely heard of burnsco. It’s a go-to name for Kiwis who need reliable marine, RV, and outdoor equipment. This guide breaks down what Burnsco offers, how to shop smarter, and how to choose the right gear for New Zealand conditions—without wasting time or money.
Below you’ll find clear explanations, practical examples, and quick comparisons. Whether you’re refitting a launch, rigging a trailer boat, or upgrading your van’s 12V setup, you’ll know what to look for and how to get it from Burnsco efficiently.
What is
Burnsco (often written as burnsco) is a New Zealand retailer focused on marine chandlery, boating accessories, fishing tackle, RV and camping gear, and 12V electronics. With stores across the country and an online shop, it caters to boaties, fishers, and travellers who need dependable equipment suited to local weather, sea states, and regulations.
Think anchors and rope, lifejackets that meet NZ standards, chartplotters and VHF radios, through to solar panels, fridges, awnings, and portable power for motorhomes and caravans. Burnsco Marine & Leisure specialises in stocking the practical bits that keep your boat or RV working well.
How it works
Burnsco sells in-store and online. In-store, you get hands-on browsing and staff who know the difference between a bowline and a blood knot. Online, you can compare products, check stock, and order delivery anywhere in New Zealand. In many cases, you can choose in-store pickup—use the store finder and product pages to confirm availability before you go.
Typical steps look like this:
- Identify what you need (for example, a 100Ah house battery or a Type 150N inflatable lifejacket).
- Search burnsco online to compare models, specs, and compatibility with your setup.
- Check store availability close to you, or choose delivery to your address.
- Review returns and warranty info on the product page. In NZ, the Consumer Guarantees Act (CGA) applies.
- Complete your purchase and keep your receipt or order confirmation for future reference.
If you’re unsure about fit—say, anchor size for your hull or cable gauge for a DC fridge—visit a store or call ahead. A quick chat can save hours of rework.
Types / examples
Marine chandlery and safety
Boats demand reliable gear. Common burnsco categories include:
- Anchoring and mooring: anchors (Danforth, plough, Rocna-style), chain, rope, swivels, bow rollers.
- Safety equipment: lifejackets (foam and inflatable), PLBs/EPIRBs, flares, first-aid kits, throw lines.
- Navigation and comms: chartplotters, fishfinders, VHF radios (fixed and handheld), AIS receivers.
- Maintenance: antifoul, anodes, bilge pumps, cleaners, wax, sealants, lubricants.
Example: a 5.5m trailer boat used for coastal snaps might pair a 5kg plough anchor with 6–8mm short-link chain and 12–14mm nylon rode. Add a 150N inflatable lifejacket per person that meets NZS 5823:2015, plus a handheld VHF for backup.
Electrical and 12V systems
For boats and RVs, electrical reliability matters. Burnsco typically carries:
- Batteries (flooded lead-acid, AGM, lithium), chargers, DC-DC chargers, solar panels and regulators.
- Switch panels, fuses, breakers, marine-grade wire, lugs, and heat-shrink.
- Lighting: LED nav lights, deck lights, interior strip lights, headlamps.
Example: an RV off-grid setup could use a 200W solar panel, 20–30A MPPT regulator, 100–200Ah battery bank, and a DC-DC charger that tops up while driving.
RV, camping, and leisure
Travellers find practical comforts at burnsco:
- 12V fridges/freezers, cookers, water pumps, portable toilets, and cassette chemicals.
- Awnings, tie-downs, levelling ramps, hoses and fittings for potable water.
- Chairs, tables, storage tubs, and weatherproof covers.
Example: a weekend caravan kit might include a 40–60L fridge, portable solar blanket, LED site lighting, and a compact gas cooker with a compliant hose and regulator.
Fishing and apparel
For a day on the Hauraki Gulf or a mission down south:
- Rods, reels, braid and mono, terminal tackle, jigs, soft-baits, nets, and gaffs.
- Polarised sunglasses, sun-protective clothing, wet-weather gear, and boots with good deck grip.
Comparison: Burnsco vs other ways to buy
| Option | What you get | Strengths | Trade-offs | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burnsco (in-store) | Hands-on gear, staff advice, immediate pickup | Fit-and-feel checking, quick problem-solving, NZ-focused stock | Travel time, store stock varies by location | Complex buys (anchors, electronics), urgent needs |
| Burnsco (online) | Full catalog, delivery NZ-wide, simple comparisons | Convenience, easy spec checking, see alternatives fast | Can’t physically test; delivery time depends on address | Planned projects and standard replacements |
| General outdoor retailer | Camping and fishing basics | Good for casual gear | Limited marine-specific parts and standards | Non-technical items and clothing |
| Overseas online | Broad range, sometimes lower prices | Rare parts | Shipping delays, warranty complexity, standards mismatch risk | Hard-to-find items when timing isn’t urgent |
Pros and cons
Pros
- New Zealand focus: products suited to local seas, UV, and salt conditions.
- Specialist range: true chandlery alongside RV and 12V gear in one place.
- Advice: staff can help match anchors, lifejackets, and electrical parts to your boat or van.
- Consumer protections: the CGA applies, giving peace of mind on durability and fitness for purpose.
Cons
- Price vs imports: some items may cost more than overseas marketplaces once freight is included.
- Stock differences: not every store carries the same items; check availability before you drive.
- Compatibility traps: mixing battery chemistries or using non-marine wiring can cause issues—seek advice if unsure.
How to use or choose
Step-by-step: choosing an anchor and rode
- Measure your boat: note length, displacement, and where you anchor (mud, sand, reef).
- Pick the anchor type for the seabed: plough or scoop for mixed bottoms; Danforth for sand/mud; grapnel for reef/rock (small craft).
- Size up conservatively: coastal winds and tidal flow in NZ can be punchy. When in doubt, go a size up.
- Select chain: short-link, hot-dip galvanised. Many trailer boats use 6–8mm; larger keeler setups go heavier. Aim for at least a boat-length of chain.
- Choose nylon rode: 3-strand or braided, typically 12–14mm for trailer boats. Nylon adds shock absorption.
- Add essentials: a quality swivel, thimble, and proper splices; label rode lengths for quick scope checks.
- Test locally: set the anchor in a safe bay and verify holding before relying on it overnight.
Step-by-step: picking a lifejacket (PFD) in NZ
- Check the standard: look for NZS 5823:2015 or an equivalent accepted standard.
- Choose buoyancy: common options are 100N (inshore) and 150N (coastal/offshore and inflatables).
- Fit it properly: it should be snug, with a crotch strap for children and when offshore or bar crossing.
- Match the activity: paddling needs freedom of movement; powerboating may suit inflatables with manual/auto inflation.
- Carry enough for everyone: NZ rules require a correctly sized lifejacket per person onboard; wear them when risk is heightened.
Step-by-step: sizing an RV or boat battery system
- List your loads: fridge, lights, pumps, fans, electronics—note watts or amps and hours used per day.
- Calculate daily Ah: total current draw x hours. Add a buffer for bad weather and inefficiencies.
- Pick chemistry: lead-acid (FLA), AGM, or lithium (LiFePO4) depending on budget, weight, and cycle life.
- Match charging: ensure your charger, alternator, or DC-DC unit has the correct profile for your battery.
- Wire it right: marine-grade cable, correct fuse sizing close to the battery, tidy looms, and secure terminations.
Battery type quick comparison
| Type | Pros | Cons | Best use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flooded Lead-Acid (FLA) | Low cost, widely available | Maintenance required, vents gas, lower usable capacity | Simple, ventilated compartments with budget constraints |
| AGM | Sealed, handles vibration, better discharge performance | Heavier and pricier than FLA | Boats and RVs needing low-maintenance reliability |
| Lithium (LiFePO4) | Light, deep discharge, fast charge, long cycle life | Higher upfront cost, needs compatible charger/BMS | Serious off-grid setups, weight-sensitive builds |
Shopping tips that pay off
- Bring measurements: shaft diameters, hose IDs, locker dimensions, and cable runs. It prevents guesswork.
- Buy marine-grade: tinned copper wire, stainless fasteners, sealed connectors—salt air is unforgiving.
- Check standards and ratings: IP ratings for lighting, load ratings for shackles, and approvals for gas gear.
- Plan for spares: fuses, bulbs, seals, anodes, impellers, and a basic tool kit.
- Use the product filters online: narrow by size, voltage, material, or standard to find the exact part faster on burnsco.
FAQ
Is burnsco only for boat owners?
No. While it’s a marine specialist, Burnsco also stocks RV, camping, fishing, and 12V products useful for caravans, vans, and off-grid cabins.
Does Burnsco meet New Zealand safety standards?
Many items are selected with NZ conditions and rules in mind. For safety gear like lifejackets, check listings for NZS 5823:2015 or equivalent accepted standards. If in doubt, ask a store team member.
Can I order online and pick up in store?
In-store pickup may be available for many products. Check the product page and your local store’s availability during checkout, as options can vary by location and stock.
What about returns and warranties?
The Consumer Guarantees Act applies in New Zealand. For product-specific warranties or returns timeframes, refer to Burnsco’s official policies and your receipt or order confirmation.
How do I know what anchor size or chain to buy?
Use your boat’s length, displacement, and local seabed as a starting point. Product pages often include sizing guidance. When uncertain, get in-store advice and err on the side of slightly heavier ground tackle for coastal NZ conditions.
What battery should I choose for my RV or boat?
For simple weekend use, AGM is a robust, low-maintenance choice. For longer off-grid stays or weight-sensitive setups, LiFePO4 shines—if your charger and wiring are compatible. Always confirm charging profiles and fuse sizing.
Does burnsco sell genuine marine-grade wiring and fittings?
Yes—look for marine-grade tinned copper wire, heat-shrink terminals, waterproof glands, and corrosion-resistant fasteners. These are designed for harsh marine environments.
Are there regional shipping differences within NZ?
Delivery times can vary between North and South Islands and by rural or remote address. Check estimated delivery at checkout for your location.
Can I get advice before buying electronics like a chartplotter?
Yes. Visit a store or contact customer support to discuss transducer types, screen sizes, mounting options, and power requirements for your vessel or kayak.
What is the best way to save on larger purchases?
Plan a complete list, compare bundles, and watch for seasonal promotions. Buying the right item once is usually cheaper than replacing a compromise later.
Bottom line
Burnsco brings together the hardware, safety gear, and electrical parts that New Zealand boaties and travellers rely on. Shop in-store when you need hands-on checks or advice; use the online store to compare specs and order at your pace. Size anchors and batteries carefully, buy marine-grade components, and follow NZ standards where required. With that approach, burnsco can be the one-stop place that keeps your boat or RV working smoothly all year.