Wood fire regulations in New Zealand
New Zealand has strict air quality regulations that determine which types of wood fires can be installed in certain areas. These regulations ensure cleaner-burning, efficient heating and compliance that is essential before purchasing a wood fire.
Types of wood burners based on NZ regulations
Non-Clean air fires (Rural or multi-fuel fires)
Only for properties over 2 hectares.
Can burn multiple fuel types but may have higher emissions.
Clean air fires (Low Emission Burner - LEB)
Approved for urban and suburban homes.
More efficient burning with minimal smoke output.
Ultra-Low Emission Burners (ULEB)
The cleanest burning option, meeting New Zealand’s strictest standards.
Approved in all regions, including areas with high air pollution.
What can I install in my region?
New Zealand enforces stringent air quality regulations that dictate the types of wood fires permissible in various regions. The nation is divided into two distinct zones: Clean Air Zones and Non-Clean Air Zones, each with its own set of requirements and limitations.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW CANTERBURY CLEAN AIR ZONES MAP
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO ABOUT WOOD FIRE RULES AND REGULATIONS
Alternative model types of logburners
Selecting the appropriate wood fire can be quite daunting due to the numerous terms and features to evaluate. It is essential to understand that a single wood fire may fall into multiple categories. Below is a straightforward overview to assist you. If you need assistance contact us we can help you understand the rules in your area.
Difference of heat distribution of woodburners:
- Radiant Wood Fires: These fires give off direct heat, warming up objects and people in the room instead of just heating the air. They work best in open spaces, homes with high ceilings and colder areas.
- Convection Wood Fires: These fires are designed to circulate warm air evenly throughout your home, making them perfect for modern, well-insulated houses and for heating multiple rooms.
Models reflecting the emission standards:
- ULEB (Ultra-Low Emission Burner): This type is built to comply with New Zealand’s strictest air quality rules. They burn wood more efficiently, which means less smoke and fewer emissions.
- LEB (Low Emission Burners): A cleaner option that’s suitable for most urban and suburban homes, helping to keep the air cleaner.
Options of fire models available:
- Freestanding Wood Fires: These units stand alone and radiate heat in all directions, making them flexible and easier to set up in various spaces.
- Inbuilt Wood Fires: These are designed to fit into a wall or an existing fireplace, giving a sleek appearance while still providing excellent heating output. Or into timber framing, the fire is inbuilt and zero clearance capable.
Discover the right sized ULEB fire for your home
Small homes up to 130 sqm - Up to 150 sqm 1-3 bedroom homes
Large ULEB (160m²+) 3-5 bedrooms plus homes
Woodsman Coleridge on leg base
Woodsman Serene on wood box base
Woodsman Serene on Drawer Base
More about Ultra Low Emission Burners (ULEB)
Ultra Low Emission Burners (ULEB) are the next generation of clean-burning wood fires, meeting New Zealand’s strictest air quality standards. These burners are approved for use in all regions in NZ - no restrictions and permittable.
Ideal For:
- Homeowners in urban clean air zones.
- Individuals seeking a sustainable heating option that does heat your home.
- People wanting the lowest possible emissions while burning wood.
Something to consider:
- Generally more expensive than some other models of wood fires due to advanced technology and testing.
- May require specific installation guidelines to ensure compliance with emissions standards.
- Limited selection compared to traditional clow emission or rural versions.
Wood for your fire:
The type of wood used affects heat output, efficiency, and possibly emissions.
- Best types of wood: Dry, seasoned hardwoods like manuka, gum, or macrocarpa burn longer.
- Softwoods: Pine and fir burn faster and great for kindling.
- Seasoning wood should be dried for least 6-24 months before use to reduce smoke and improve efficiency.
- Warning: try not to burn old man pine, this wood soots and blocks flues fast.
- Dont burn wood with a higher moisture content than 20% - this can cause creosote. You can purchase a moisture meter from a hardware store or online and test your wood for moisture yourself before burning.