If you’re thinking about installing a new log burner, few brands are as trusted in New Zealand as Woodsman. Built right here in Christchurch since 1887, Woodsman fires are designed specifically for NZ conditions efficient, low-emission, and Ultra Low Emission options all built to last. Woodsman is now the largest wood fire manufacturer in new Zealand with so many models available, how do you pick the right one for your home?
Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the perfect fit.
1. Match the Fire Size to Your Home
(we are experts with this and can help you)
The biggest factor in choosing the right wood fire is room size and insulation.
Here are some fire model examples per area of heating.
Small homes or open-plan spaces under 120 m²: The Serene Petite and Kanaku models woodstacker and ped base are compact yet powerful — perfect for modern, well-insulated spaces. Also ideal for old uninsulated homes with high ceilings.
Medium homes 120–180 m²: The Kanaku and petite still rule this size space and some people like to go slightly larger with the Flare and Tasman for example.
Large homes 180 m² + : The Tasman, Coleridge, Serene and tarras produce serious warmth for large family homes 3-5 bedrooms plus with high ceilings too.
Click here to checkout Woodsman heating calculator
If you’re unsure contact us, remember its not a problem to size up slightly.
2. Check Your Local Clean-Air Rules
Every region has its own emissions standards. Woodsman offers Clean Air Approved, Ultra Low Emission Burners (ULEB) and dedicated Rural models.
Urban areas (Christchurch city, Timaru, etc.): You’ll need a ULEB like the Serene or Kanaku
Rural or lifestyle blocks outside the clean air zone can permit low emission models and if the property is two hectares in size a rural fire can be permitted.
If you’re unsure which applies, we’ll confirm it for you and can offer you a free supply and installation quote in some areas.
3. Flue & Installation
A quality flue system is just as important as the fire itself — it impacts heat efficiency, safety, and performance.
We recommend the Woodsman HeatSaver flue system, which keeps more warmth in the room and reduces condensation plus improves efficiency with less heat loss.
Heatsaver Installation Instructions
4. Professional Installation Matters
Even the best fire won’t perform properly without expert installation as per the recommended installation instructions.
At Yourstore, we manage the full process — from supply, permits, and flue setup to installation by our highly recommended Woodsman install team, covering Canterbury-wide and some other areas in New Zealand
We also offer free, no-obligation installation quotes, so you’ll know exactly what’s involved before you commit - try us, we are very competative with our pricing.
CLICK HERE to view some of our installations
5. Style That Fits Your Space
Woodsman fires come in both modern and classic designs — whether your home is sleek and contemporary or more traditional, there’s a perfect fit.
Modern: Serene or Flare — minimalist lines, high efficiency.
Classic: Tarras Mk III, Totara, or Coleridge — timeless looks with radiant heat.
6. Seasonal Deals
Woodsman runs limited-time offers through Yourstore. Talk to us about our current deals available and not always promoted through our website - contact us
🌿 Built to Last, Made for NZ
Choosing a Woodsman means supporting local manufacturing and investing in comfort that lasts for decades. Click Here to Read the Woodsman Family Story
7. Think About Fuel Efficiency
Woodsman fires are designed for maximum burn time with minimal wood use.
Look for models with high efficiency ratings (around 65–70% or more) — they’ll keep your home warmer and your woodpile lasting longer.
8. Consider Your Wood Supply
If you mostly burn softwood (like pine or macrocarpa), go for a fire with a larger firebox.
If you use dense hardwoods (like blue gum or manuka), a smaller box can still produce long-lasting heat. Checkout the best firewood for your new Woodburner
10. Plan Your Hearth and Wall Protection
Each fire has minimum clearance requirements. These specs are showing in the fire Woodsman installation instructions. There are usually three types of hearth applications for both along the wall and in the corner positions.
- Premade black powder coated steel hearth
- Ceramic tiled premade hearth
- Tile or other non combustible surface such as an existing concrete polished flooring
Woodsman Serene install instructions
Woodsman Coleridge and Kanaku installation instructions
11. Consider Future Proofing
If you plan to renovate, extend, or move the fire later, pick a model with flexible flue options and modern clean-air certification — this keeps your investment compliant for years to come.
💬 12. Ask the Experts
Choosing the right fire isn’t just about looks, it’s also about performance, compliance, efficiency and installation quality.
Ask us we’re New Zealand’s Woodsman Fire Specialist Store, with over 20 years’ experience supplying and installing across Canterbury.
We’ll help you pick the perfect model, confirm your council requirements, and provide a free, no-obligation installation quote including providing council consent.
Ready to Choose Yours?
📞 0800 111 688 - txt the firepline 0275 110 110
💌 shop@yourstore.nz
📍 Woodsman fires display - Home Ideas Centre, Christchurch
Yourstore - NZ’s Woodsman Specialist Store
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