Finding the right outdoor fireplace in New Zealand means choosing something that can handle our unique climate while creating that perfect gathering spot for family and friends. With coastal winds, temperature swings, and varying moisture levels across the country, you need a fireplace that's built to last and designed with Kiwi conditions in mind.
We've put together this guide to help you compare the top outdoor fireplace companies in NZ, so you can make an informed decision about which one fits your outdoor space, budget, and lifestyle.
Top outdoor fireplace companies in NZ & what makes them stand out
1. Trendz Outdoors
What we do well: Trendz are a family-run company manufacturing outdoor fireplaces in Taranaki for 19 years (since 2006). Our outdoor fireplace range handles coastal conditions well, from the Twin Peak to our corten steel Fire Pit. We work with architects on custom projects and deliver throughout New Zealand and Australia.
Best for:
- Customer service
- Heat output
- Wood outdoor fireplaces
Things to keep in mind: Like other quality outdoor wood fireplace NZ options, proper site prep and foundation work are important. Talk with our team about which model suits your space, installation requirements, and what groundwork you'll need for your setup.
Download our outdoor fireplace brochure to see the full range and specifications.
2. Warmington Fires
What they do well: Warmington has been building fireplaces since 1994 from their Auckland factory, and are now operating under Rinnai New Zealand. With 30 years of industry experience, they offer wood and gas fireplaces, woodburners, and outdoor BBQ units designed for New Zealand's coastal conditions. Their Nouveau outdoor wood fire range comes in widths from 900mm to 2000mm.
Best for:
- Gas outdoor fireplaces
- Build quality
- Outdoor cooking
Things to keep in mind: Custom builds can add up quickly in cost. Lead times might be longer depending on specifications, so plan ahead if you're working to a timeline. Confirm emission compliance for your region and check the installation complexity before committing.
3. Escea
What they do well: Founded in Dunedin in 2002, Escea manufactures wood, gas, and electric fireplaces with a focus on high-end design and clean-burning technology. Their outdoor range includes the EK Series outdoor kitchen with ember generator and adjustable cooking plates, the EW5000 wood fire with BBQ cooking plate, and the EF5000 gas fireplace with push-button operation. Many products feature Direct Vent technology and Zero Clearance ratings.
Best for:
- Minimalist design
- Gas outdoor fireplaces
- Simplified product range
Things to keep in mind: Escea fireboxes are at the higher end of the market. The pricing is for the firebox unit itself, not the complete structure or surround. Installation needs to meet specific standards for flues and venting. If choosing gas, confirm your gas supply setup and safety requirements. Lastly, make sure the firebox you select is made of a heavy-gauge steel to handle many years of use.
4. Inferno Outdoors
What they do well: Operating from Wellington with 13 years in the industry, Inferno Outdoors manufactures outdoor fireplaces and kitchens in New Zealand with custom design options. They offer concrete foundation installation as part of their service. Construction uses firebricks rather than steel inserts. Units are backed by a 20-year structural warranty.
Best for:
- Unique fireplace design
- Firebox-less hearth
- Simplicity of design
Things to keep in mind: Bigger units mean more space requirements and higher costs. Their modular pieces are heavy (upwards of 400kg), so you'll need experienced local installers and proper site preparation. Shipping and installation costs can vary significantly depending on your location. Fireplaces don't have the benefits of a steel firebox for radiant heat.
5. SmokeDogg
What they do well: Based in Christchurch, SmokeDogg builds corten steel outdoor fireplaces to your specifications. Models like the Bentley, Koa (with integrated pizza oven), Titan, and King Braai can be tailored for dimensions, cooking features, and finishes. A single unit can handle multiple cooking methods, including grilling, smoking, and pizza making.
Best for:
- Smokers and BBQs
- All-metal construction
- Hand-crafted corten steel designs
Things to keep in mind: Crafted from corten steel, it is recommended to investigate the longevity of the fireplace in coastal conditions. While providing an easy solution for an outdoor fireplace and cooker, make sure all specifications are covered for installation near combustible materials and planting. Corten steel does radiate heat, so also worth keeping in mind health and safety, especially around children.
6. Pique Fires
What they do well: Pique manufactures the Pique Ascent with aluminised steel (mild steel that has been hot-dipped in aluminium) and a corten firebox. Their Smoke-Vent technology reduces smoke output, and the stainless steel cooking station has height-adjustable grills. The design breaks into components under 35kg each for easy installation. Free shipping is included, though rural delivery fees apply.
Best for:
- Single unique design
- Patented smoke-vent technology
- Available from many Mitre10 Mega locations
Things to keep in mind: Premium design comes with premium pricing. Verify your space requirements, foundation needs, and flue specifications before ordering. While the product is made with aluminised steel, if the coating breaks, the mild steel will be exposed, requiring ongoing maintenance to maintain its fine look.
7. Stellar Fires
What they do well: Stellar Fires manufactures handmade outdoor fireplaces, pizza ovens, and braziers in New Zealand from corten steel. Started in 2022, they work closely with customers to create custom designs. All models are constructed from corten steel with a focus on quality craftsmanship and durability.
Best for:
- Corten steel all-metal constructions
- Industrial design style
- Custom design and build
Things to keep in mind: Bespoke and custom styles typically mean longer lead times. You may need to coordinate installation separately and check local building permissions, depending on your setup and also requirements for clearances for fireplaces made with corten steel.
8. Flare Fires
What they do well: Flare Fires has been manufacturing precast concrete outdoor fireplaces in the Bay of Plenty since 2001. Their modular system installs in hours, with units arriving factory-finished. Models range from the Deluxe to the Elite series. Cooking accessories like grills, pizza ovens, rotisseries, and smokers can be added. Units come with a lifetime warranty (firebrick warranty).
Best for:
- Outdoor cooking
- Bare concrete finishes
- Curved ‘shoulder’ design
Things to keep in mind: These fireplaces use firebricks, which work well for cooking but typically produce less radiant heat than a steel firebox. You'll need to follow a curing process with small fires for 40 hours to allow the glue to dry properly before regular use. Factor in site preparation costs before committing, as fires can weigh as much as 4500kg.
Making Your Decision
The best outdoor fireplace company for you depends on your specific needs: budget, space, design preferences, and how hands-on you want to be with customisation. Consider installation complexity, ongoing maintenance, and whether you want wood, gas, or another fuel type.
Most importantly, choose a company that stands behind its product and makes the process straightforward. Your outdoor fireplace will become the heart of your outdoor entertaining area for years to come.
Download our inspiration guide to start planning your perfect outdoor space.
Have a question? Contact us