Presenting the Garmin GPSMAP 86i Marine Handheld with inReach

When you're out on New Zealand's vast and often unpredictable waters, real confidence comes from knowing you're always connected and always safe. The Garmin GPSMAP 86i Marine Handheld with inReach is far more than your standard GPS; it’s a rugged lifeline that blends precision navigation with life-saving satellite communication, making it an essential piece of kit for anyone heading beyond the reach of cellular networks.

 

 

Your Essential Companion for New Zealand Waters

 

 

Picture yourself setting off from the Bay of Islands or exploring the remote beauty of Fiordland.

 

It doesn’t take long for your mobile phone to become a useless brick, leaving a massive gap in your safety net. This is exactly where the Garmin GPSMAP 86i proves its worth.

 

It’s not just another gadget; it’s a fundamental part of your safety equipment, built from the ground up for the tough marine environment.

 

This device really is a huge leap forward in handheld GPS tech, especially for our extensive and diverse waterways here in New Zealand.

 

It takes Garmin's legendary GPS accuracy and pairs it with inReach satellite communication, giving you global messaging and SOS functions that work completely independently of any mobile network.

 

In a country where boating is a way of life, that’s a layer of security you can’t put a price on. You can read more about this globally launched series and its impact on marine safety over at Marine Business World.

 

To give you a clearer picture, here's a quick rundown of what makes the GPSMAP 86i such a vital tool for Kiwi boaties.

Garmin GPSMAP 86i At a Glance for NZ Mariners

 

Feature	Benefit for NZ Users
Global Iridium Satellite Network	Stay connected from the Hauraki Gulf to Stewart Island, completely independent of mobile coverage.
Interactive SOS	Direct link to a 24/7 monitoring centre that coordinates with NZ's rescue services.
Two-Way Messaging	Send and receive texts anywhere, perfect for updating family or coordinating with other boats.
IP67 Waterproof Rating	Built to withstand the harsh NZ marine environment, from sea spray to accidental drops overboard.
BlueChart g3 Coastal Charts	Preloaded with detailed charts for navigating our complex coastlines with confidence.
Location Tracking	Lets friends and family follow your trip online, giving them (and you) peace of mind.

 

This isn't just a list of specs; these are practical features that solve real-world problems you face every time you leave the dock.

Built for the Real World

The GPSMAP 86i is designed to take a beating.

 

Its rugged, waterproof (IP67 rated) body means it can handle spray, rain, or even a full dunking without missing a beat.

 

The buttons are easy to use, and the screen is built to be read in the brightest midday glare, so you can always see your course.

 

This focus on durability and straight-up usability lets you stop worrying about your gear and focus on the journey.

 

Whether you're a weekend warrior, a serious fisho, or running a commercial charter, this handheld delivers unwavering reliability when it counts.

Think of it as your co-pilot. It handles the critical tasks of navigation and communication, freeing you to manage the boat and enjoy your time on the water, knowing a connection for help is always within reach.

More Than Just a Map

The real game-changer here is the built-in inReach technology, which runs on the global Iridium satellite network.

 

This guarantees you a two-way communication link no matter how far you are from shore. For anyone serious about safety, it's a non-negotiable.

 

• Global Messaging: Send and receive texts with family and friends to let them know your plans or that you've arrived safely at your destination.
• Location Sharing: Let loved ones track your journey in real-time on a web-based map, which offers huge reassurance for everyone.
• Interactive SOS: If the worst happens, you can trigger an interactive SOS to a 24/7 monitoring centre. They can message you back and coordinate directly with New Zealand’s rescue services.

 

This level of connectivity is a cornerstone of any good safety plan. For more tips on getting prepared, have a look at our essential guide to creating a complete boat safety checklist.

 

 

Unpacking the Core Features of the GPSMAP 86i

To really get a feel for what the Garmin GPSMAP 86i brings to the boat, you have to look past a simple spec sheet.

 

This isn't just another gadget; it's a piece of kit engineered from the ground up for the tough New Zealand marine environment, where every single feature has a real-world, often critical, job to do.

 

Think of it as the ultimate combination of a rugged navigator and a global communicator.

 

Right out of the box, you can tell the GPSMAP 86i is built to take a beating. It’s got an IP67 waterproof rating, which is more than just a fancy label.

 

It means the unit can be completely submerged in one metre of water for 30 minutes and pop back up ready for action.

 

Whether you're dealing with heavy spray copping a wave over the side, or even an accidental drop overboard, that’s the kind of resilience you need in your primary navigation and safety tool.

 

This toughness is matched with fantastic usability. The big, 3-inch colour display is designed specifically to be sunlight-readable.

 

There's nothing worse—or more dangerous—than a screen that completely washes out in the bright Kiwi sun. Garmin has nailed this, ensuring your maps and data stay sharp and clear, right when you need to see them most.

The Power of the Iridium Satellite Network

While its GPS navigation is absolutely top-notch, the real game-changer in the GPSMAP 86i is its built-in inReach satellite communicator technology.

 

This is what lifts it from a great navigation device to an essential lifeline.

 

The unit connects directly to the Iridium satellite network, which is an impressive web of 66 cross-linked satellites orbiting the Earth.

 

Basically, it’s a communication grid that gives you 100% global coverage.

 

Unlike your cellular network, which vanishes a few kilometres from shore, the Iridium network is always on, whether you’re crossing Cook Strait or tucked away in a remote Fiordland cove.

This constant connectivity is the cornerstone of modern maritime safety. It completely closes that dangerous communication gap that exists in most of New Zealand’s best boating and fishing spots, making sure you are never truly out of touch.

This connection unlocks three critical functions that a mobile phone just can't touch once you’re offshore:

 

• Two-Way Text Messaging: You can send and receive texts from absolutely anywhere on the planet. It’s perfect for checking in with family back home, coordinating with another boat, or sending a non-urgent message to shore for a bit of help.
• Live Location Sharing: The device can send out your location at set intervals, letting friends and family follow your trip on a web map. This gives everyone huge peace of mind.
• Interactive SOS Alerts: This is the big one. If you’re ever in grave and imminent danger, you press the dedicated SOS button. This sends a distress signal straight to the Garmin Response℠ centre, a 24/7 global emergency monitoring hub that will coordinate your rescue.

 

Navigating with Unmatched Detail

A great handheld GPS is only as good as its maps, and the GPSMAP 86i comes loaded with BlueChart g3 coastal charts right out of the box.

 

These aren't your basic outlines; they are incredibly detailed charts that integrate both Garmin and Navionics® data.

 

This level of detail is vital for navigating New Zealand's often tricky and demanding coastlines.

 

You get a crystal-clear view of depth contours, navaids, port plans, and hidden hazards, giving you the full picture to make smart decisions on the water.

 

The device also works with optional BlueChart g3 Vision charts, which add high-resolution satellite imagery and 3D views for an even better perspective of what’s around you.

 

This blend of a tough, waterproof design, a brilliant screen, life-saving inReach satellite tech, and detailed marine charts makes the Garmin GPSMAP 86i an unbelievably capable tool.

 

It’s a complete safety and navigation package built for anyone who takes their adventures on the water seriously.

 

 

Why Satellite Communication Is Non-Negotiable in NZ

 

 

Out on the water, the familiar reception bars on your phone disappear a lot faster than the shoreline. This isn't just an inconvenience; it's a serious safety gap.

 

For anyone who takes boating, fishing, or any marine activity around New Zealand seriously, a dedicated Satellite Communicator like the Garmin GPSMAP 86i isn't a luxury item—it’s an absolute necessity.

 

The reality of our beautiful but often rugged coastline is that cellular blackouts begin just a few kilometres offshore.

 

A sudden engine failure, an unexpected weather front rolling in, or a medical issue can quickly escalate from a problem into a life-threatening emergency when you have no way to call for help.

 

This is exactly the gap the GPSMAP 86i is built to close.

From Isolation to Instant Connection

Picture this: your engine cuts out in rough seas. With no mobile signal, you're completely isolated.

 

But with the Garmin 86i in your hand, you can send a text message via the Iridium satellite network to a family member or your marine mechanic, pinpointing your exact GPS coordinates and explaining the problem.

 

A potentially dangerous situation just became a manageable one.

 

This capability is vital in New Zealand's vast maritime playground. Our country has an immense coastline of around 15,100 km, and our marine industries are a huge part of our economy.

 

The tough truth is that a significant number of marine incidents happen in areas beyond the reach of standard VHF radio, which really drives home how critical satellite technology has become.

 

Garmin's inReach technology uses the Iridium network, which covers 100% of New Zealand's waters, ensuring you always have a connection for both routine check-ins and genuine emergencies.

 

 

The combination of rugged durability, a direct line to emergency services, and detailed navigation is what makes this device a complete safety solution, not just another gadget.

How the Interactive SOS Truly Works

The SOS button on the Garmin GPSMAP 86i is much more than a simple distress signal. It's a two-way, interactive link to professional help.

 

When you trigger an SOS, you aren't just sending a blind alert into the void.

Your distress signal, with your precise GPS location, is transmitted directly to the Garmin Response℠ centre—a 24/7 global emergency monitoring hub staffed by real people.

Almost immediately, they'll message you back on your device, asking for details about your emergency.

 

You can tell them if it's a medical issue, a fire, or a sinking vessel. This two-way text conversation allows them to give the most accurate and useful information to New Zealand's Rescue Coordination Centre (RCCNZ) and other local emergency services.

 

This interactive element is a game-changer. It gives rescuers a clear picture of what they are heading into and gives you the vital reassurance that help is on the way, along with any critical instructions you might need to follow while you wait.

 

• Confirm Your Emergency: Let the response team know the exact nature of your distress.
• Receive Vital Updates: Get confirmation that help has been dispatched and receive estimated arrival times.
• Provide Ongoing Information: Update the team if your situation changes, ensuring the rescue effort is as efficient as possible.

 

This level of detailed, two-way communication makes the Garmin GPSMAP 86i a fundamental piece of modern safety equipment.

 

If you want to get a better sense of the coverage, have a look at our guide on the global satellite coverage map to see the power of the Iridium network for yourself.

 

It really solidifies the fact that this device isn't just a handheld navigator; it's your lifeline when you need it most.

 

 

Practical Applications for Boating, Fishing, and 4WD Adventures

 

 

The true value of a device like the Garmin GPSMAP 86i isn’t just in its spec sheet; it's how it performs when you're actually out there.

 

This is where its advanced tech comes to life, serving Kiwis who need dependable communication and navigation, whether they're on the water or deep in the backcountry.

 

It's a tool that transitions seamlessly from the open ocean to rugged trails, making it an incredibly versatile piece of kit for all kinds of outdoor adventures.

 

For any keen boating enthusiast, one of the most practical features is its ability to sync up with your existing onboard systems.

 

You can stream boat data directly from compatible chartplotters and instruments right to the handheld device.

This means you can keep an eye on critical info like speed, depth, water temperature, and engine data even when you’re away from the helm.

 

It’s like having a secondary display in your pocket, giving you complete situational awareness from anywhere on the vessel.

 

This level of integration is a huge step up for any skipper. It offers flexibility and a crucial backup, ensuring vital information is always at your fingertips—a massive plus for both convenience and health and safety.

Precision for Anglers and Explorers

For those who live for fishing, the GPSMAP 86i is the ultimate tool for marking and returning to that secret spot. Its high-sensitivity GPS lets you drop a waypoint with pinpoint accuracy.

 

Whether it's a productive reef, a deep hole, or a favourite scallop bed, you can save the exact coordinates and navigate back with total confidence next time you're out.

 

You can also use the tracking feature to record your successful trolling paths, building a personal database of what works and where.

 

It takes the guesswork out of your fishing trips and helps you make the most of your time on the water.

Think of it as your digital logbook. It doesn't just get you home safely; it helps you become a more efficient and successful angler by remembering every important detail of your trip.

Beyond the Coastline for 4WD Adventures

The utility of the Garmin GPSMAP 86i extends far beyond the marine environment.

 

New Zealand’s remote backcountry is a paradise for trampers and 4WD explorers, but it’s also a place where standard cellular networks simply don't exist.

 

This is where the 86i becomes a critical link to the outside world, transforming from a boat navigator into an essential off-road Satellite Communicator.

 

When you're deep in the bush or crossing a remote high-country pass, the device’s inReach technology provides the same peace of mind it does at sea.

 

You can send and receive text messages to check in with family, share your location so they can follow your progress, or, most importantly, trigger an SOS if you run into serious trouble.

 

For anyone venturing into remote terrain, this device is a vital safety net where a mobile phone is completely useless.

 

• Live Tracking: Let friends and family follow your overland journey in real-time, providing reassurance for everyone.
• Two-Way Messaging: Send updates on your progress or coordinate with other vehicles in your convoy, even without radio contact.
• Weather Forecasts: Get detailed weather updates sent directly to your device, helping you make informed decisions about your route.

 

The adoption of advanced handheld GPS units with satellite functionality is a growing trend across New Zealand’s recreational and professional sectors.

The ability to share real-time route data with family or emergency services is a key advantage; quick location identification can significantly reduce search and rescue response times in remote incidents.

You can discover more insights about how this technology is used on New Zealand's waters. This single, rugged device truly serves multiple passions, delivering safety and convenience across all your land and sea adventures.

 

 

Getting Your GPSMAP 86i Ready for Action

 

 

Confidence in your gear starts with a solid setup. Thankfully, getting your Garmin GPSMAP 86i ready for its first trip is a straightforward process, designed to get you out the door quickly.

 

From the moment you unbox it, every step feels intuitive, putting its incredible navigation and satellite communication smarts right at your fingertips.

 

The first, and most critical, step is activating your inReach satellite subscription.

 

This is the key that unlocks the 86i's true potential, turning it from a high-quality GPS into a genuine global communicator.

 

It's what powers the two-way messaging, live tracking, and the life-saving SOS function. Without an active subscription, these features simply won’t be available.

 

Choosing the right plan ensures you're not paying for more than you need. Garmin offers a range of options in New Zealand, from flexible monthly plans perfect for the occasional adventurer to annual contracts for those who are always out on the water or deep in the backcountry.

Choosing Your Garmin inReach Subscription Plan

Picking a subscription plan can feel a bit daunting, but it really just boils down to how often you plan to head offshore or into remote areas where there’s no mobile reception.

 

Here’s a simple breakdown to help you find the right fit for your adventures.

 

Plan Type	Best For	Key Features
Safety Plan	The essential user who wants a backup for emergencies.	Includes SOS activations, a limited number of preset messages, and basic tracking points. Ideal for peace of mind on short trips.
Recreation Plan	The frequent adventurer who likes to stay in touch.	Offers more text messages, more detailed tracking points, and location pings. A great all-rounder for regular boaties and trampers.
Expedition Plan	The serious explorer or commercial operator.	Provides unlimited text messages, unlimited tracking points, and the highest level of connectivity for long or remote journeys.

 

The great thing is these plans are designed to be flexible, so you can adjust them based on your seasonal needs—ramping up for summer and dialling it back in winter if you need to.

Pairing with the Garmin Explore App

To really get the most out of your GPSMAP 86i, you'll want to pair it with the Garmin Explore™ app on your smartphone.

 

It’s a simple one-off process via Bluetooth that opens up a whole new world of functionality, effectively turning your phone into mission control for your trips.

 

Once you’re connected, the app makes trip planning and managing your data incredibly easy.

Think of the Garmin Explore app as the bridge between your adventures and your digital world. It syncs all your data, expands your mapping options, and makes planning your next trip easier than ever.

It’s a powerful companion to the handheld device itself, giving you a heap of practical tools:

 

• Cloud Storage: All your waypoints, routes, and tracks get automatically backed up to the cloud. You’ll never have to worry about losing the coordinates for that perfect fishing spot again.
• Advanced Trip Planning: It's much easier to plan detailed routes, drop waypoints, and review your trips on your phone’s larger screen before you even leave home.
• More Mapping Options: You get access to a wider variety of maps, including topographic charts, aerial imagery, and other useful layers that you can download directly to your phone for offline use.

 

If you like these satellite capabilities but are considering a more compact device, it might be worth checking out the features of the Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite Communicator, which also pairs seamlessly with the Explore app.

 

With your subscription active and the app paired, your Garmin GPSMAP 86i is fully kitted out and ready for whatever you can throw at it.

 

 

Expert Support and Future-Proofing Your Investment

Getting your hands on the right device is just the start. To really get the most out of a powerful tool like the Garmin GPSMAP 86i, you need specialist knowledge and someone to call on when you need a hand.

 

That’s where working with a specialist provider makes all the difference.

 

We live and breathe this technology. We'll make sure your unit is configured perfectly for what you do, whether that's for a commercial vessel or kitting out your 4WD for an epic trip.

 

Having an expert to call for setup help, troubleshooting, or just advice on the best accessories is a game-changer.

 

For example, getting the mounting solution right is critical. You don't want your expensive gear flying across the cabin or dashboard in rough seas or on a corrugated track.

 

We can set you up with the right Ram Mounts to keep your handheld secure and exactly where you need it, no matter how much of a beating it takes.

Flexible Solutions for Every Situation

We get it – not everyone needs to own one of these devices outright, especially for a one-off job or trip.

 

That's why we've put together flexible options to get this life-saving tech in your hands without the big upfront cost. We’re not just here to sell you a box; we’re here to be your partner in safety and communication.

Choosing a specialist provider means you're investing in a relationship. You get access to expert advice, ongoing support, and flexible solutions that ensure your gear is always ready for action and keeps pace with your needs.

This is especially helpful for our commercial clients who need a complete, future-proof solution that just works.

 

• Device Hire: Perfect for short-term projects, seasonal work, or that one-off trip into the backcountry. You get a fully functional, up-to-date device without the long-term commitment.
• Leasing Options: For businesses, leasing is a smart, cost-effective way to equip your team. It rolls the latest tech, service, and support into a manageable operating expense.

 

At the end of the day, our job is to make sure your investment in safety and communication pays off, backed by the best advice and support you’ll find in New Zealand.

 

 

Got Questions About the Garmin GPSMAP 86i?

You're not alone. When you’re investing in a serious piece of kit like this, it’s natural to have questions.

 

To help you get clarity, we’ve put together answers to some of the most common things our New Zealand customers ask us about the Garmin GPSMAP 86i.

Do I Need a Subscription for It to Work?

Great question. The GPS navigation side of things works straight out of the box—no subscription needed.

 

You can see your position, track your route, and use the preloaded charts right away. Simple as that.

 

But, to get the real magic out of this device—the inReach features—you will need an active satellite subscription.

 

This is what powers the two-way satellite messaging, live location tracking, and that all-important interactive SOS function. We can run you through the different plans to find one that makes sense for how you'll be using it.

How Does the SOS Feature Work in New Zealand?

When you hit that SOS button, it's not just firing off a blind signal into the void.

 

It sends an alert through the rock-solid Iridium satellite network to a 24/7 global emergency monitoring centre. These are real people, ready to help.

 

The first thing they'll do is message you back on the device to confirm the emergency.

 

From there, they coordinate directly with our own emergency services here in New Zealand, like the Rescue Coordination Centre (RCCNZ) and Coastguard NZ.

 

They pass on your exact GPS location, which is critical for a fast and effective response.

Is It Better Than a Traditional PLB or EPIRB?

This is where the GPSMAP 86i really stands out. The key difference is two-way communication.

 

A Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) or an EPIRB does one job: it sends a one-way distress signal with your location. That’s it.

With the 86i, you can actually text back and forth with the rescue team. Think about what that means. You can describe the situation, tell them how many people are involved, the nature of any injuries, or what’s happening with your boat. It’s a game-changer for both your peace of mind and the efficiency of the rescue.

That interactive element, plus all its non-emergency messaging and navigation features, makes it a much more versatile safety tool for most people.

Can I Use the GPSMAP 86i for Hiking and 4WDing?

Absolutely. While it’s built tough for the marine world, its powerful GPS, rugged design, and inReach satellite comms make it an incredible bit of gear for land-based adventures, too.

 

For trampers, hunters, and 4WD crews heading into areas with zero mobile reception, it provides exactly the same safety net and navigation confidence.

 

It’s a genuine all-in-one outdoor device, keeping you connected and safe whether you're miles offshore or deep in the backcountry.

 

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For expert advice on the Garmin GPSMAP 86i and to explore our full range of communication solutions, trust the specialists. Mobile Systems is here to ensure you have the right gear, expert support, and complete peace of mind for every adventure. Visit our website to learn more.