Guide to Fireplace Installation
A wood burner isn’t just another appliance, it’s the heart of the home in winter. Installed right it pumps serious heat, runs efficiently, and lasts decades. Done wrong… it smokes, becomes less efficient and just doesnt perform how its designed too.
That’s why installation matters just as much as the fire model itself.
Why Professional Installation Matters
In New Zealand, installing a wood burner isn’t a casual weekend job. It involves:
- Building consent
- Strict air quality rule adherance
- Correct flue height and clearances
- Installed as per the manufacturers guide and install instructions
- Fire safety compliance
- After sales service
Councils like Christchurch City Council require installations to meet standards set by Environment Canterbury (ECAN)
If it’s not done properly, you can run into:
- Failed inspections
- Insurance issues
- Poor performance (unwanted smoke, low heat)
- Unwanted fire risk
Our Installers: Certified & Guaranteed
This is where things separate the pros from the cowboys.
Our highly recommended Woodsman installation team are certified members of the New Zealand Home Heating Association (NZHHA) - the recognised standard for professional home heating installers in NZ.
That means:
✅ Installations meet NZ building and safety standards
✅ Work is carried out by trained, experienced and fully qualified professionals
✅ Your fire performs the way it’s designed to
✅ You’re covered with a guaranteed installation
No guesswork. No shortcuts. Just done properly - all arranged by Yourstore.
Contact us for a free install quote combined with a deal for a new fireplace / advice.
Why This Actually Matters (Real Talk)
You can buy a great fire - like a Woodsman, but if it’s installed badly, it won’t perform.
Common issues from poor installs:
- Fires that don’t draw properly (smoke backing up)
- Excess creosote buildup (chimney fire risk)
- Heat loss due to incorrect setup
- Compliance issues when selling your home
A proper install avoids all of that.
Built for New Zealand Homes
Woodsman fires are designed for Kiwi conditions - cold winters, high ceilings, and real heating demands.
Pair that with a certified installer, and you get:
- Strong, consistent heat output
- Longer burn times
- Cleaner, more efficient performance
- Peace of mind knowing it’s compliant
The Bottom Line
Anyone can sell you a fire (but is it the right fire?)
Not everyone can install it properly.
With a certified NZHHA installer and a guaranteed install, you’re not just buying a wood burner - you’re locking in performance, safety, and long-term reliability.

7. Solid Fuel Heater Installation in NZ
Solid fuel heater installation NZ requires council consent and compliance with air quality rules. If your outside of our install reffered team then always choose a NZHHA-certified installer
8. Efficient Use & Maintenance
Efficient use of wood burners NZ
Hers a guide to the best wood for a woodburner - seasoned dry wood is best!
Avoid treated timber — as cautioned by the Ministry for the Environment
Keep fires small to medium for clean burning
Use the top-down lighting method for quicker flue warming
Wood burner maintenance NZ
Annual chimney sweep service (christchurch contact)
Check seals, dampers, and flue for wear
Inspect hearth and wall protection for heat damage
9. Regional Fireplace & Wood Burner Installers in NZ
Depending on where you live: Yourstore offers installers in the following areas within New Zealand
Yourstore wood burner installation services:
With a wood fire purchase we offer installation services in the following areas: contact us
- Christchurch
- Canterbury Region
- South Canterbury
- Timaru
- Nelson - Tasman
- Wellington
- North Waikato
-
Whangarei - Northland
- Central Otago including Cromwell, Wānaka & Queenstown
Canterbury residence get a free fixed price Woodsman fire installation quote in less than 10 minutes - CLICK HERE
10. Final Safety Checklist
Before firing up your new wood burner or fireplace:
✅ Use an authorised wood burner NZ
✅ Obtain building consent before installation
✅ Hire a NZHHA-certified installer
✅ Burn only dry, untreated wood
✅ Schedule annual fireplace maintenance




