Outdoor Fireplaces NZ: What’s New for 2026
Outdoor fireplaces in New Zealand have evolved beyond simple fire pits. In 2026, they’re being designed as architectural garden features that enhance outdoor living, create focal points, and deliver real warmth all year round.
Whether you’re planning a new build, renovating, or designing an outdoor room, the latest outdoor fireplace trends focus on design, performance, and NZ-specific practicality.
1. Outdoor Fireplaces as Architectural Features
Outdoor fireplaces are increasingly treated as permanent garden structures rather than standalone products. They are being integrated into walls, pergolas, outdoor kitchens, and entertainment areas — becoming a defining feature of the landscape.
Key trends in 2026 include:
Built-in outdoor fireplaces as the focal point of a garden
Fireplaces integrated into outdoor kitchens and dining spaces
Architectural surrounds using stone, concrete, plaster, and steel
This approach ensures the fireplace feels intentional, timeless, and connected to the home’s design.
2. Sculptural Fire Pits & Freestanding Outdoor Fires
Alongside built-in fireplaces, sculptural fire pits remain a strong trend in New Zealand. These designs prioritise form as much as function and create social gathering zones in gardens and courtyards.
Popular styles include:
Circular and organic fire pit designs
Sculptural steel and concrete finishes
Freestanding and mobile outdoor fires for flexible layouts
These fire features work well in pool areas, patios, and open lawns, where the fire becomes the centrepiece.
3. Gas vs Wood Outdoor Fireplaces in NZ
The choice between gas and wood continues to shape outdoor fireplace design across New Zealand.
Outdoor gas fireplaces:
Instant ignition and easy control
Consistent heat output
Clean operation with minimal maintenance
Outdoor wood fireplaces:
Traditional flame and sensory experience
Strong visual presence
Designs that align with modern NZ standards
Flueless vs flued gas fireplaces
In NZ, flueless gas fireplaces can be easier to position in outdoor areas because they don’t require a chimney or flue. However, they may be subject to restrictions around ventilation and council rules. Flued gas fireplaces require more infrastructure but are often easier to approve and can offer clearer compliance pathways.
4. Designed for New Zealand Conditions
Outdoor fireplaces in NZ must perform in varied weather conditions. Unlike indoor wood fires, outdoor fires do not need to meet emissions requirements when they can be classified as a cooking appliance, allowing greater design freedom.
Key considerations include:
Weather-resistant materials and finishes suited to NZ conditions
Correct placement for wind protection and heat retention
Safe clearances and positioning for neighbours and boundaries
A design-led approach ensures outdoor fireplaces remain functional, durable, and visually appealing all year round.
5. Seamless Indoor–Outdoor Fireplace Design
A growing trend in 2026 is creating visual continuity between indoor and outdoor fireplaces. Matching materials, proportions, and detailing helps create a cohesive flow from inside to out.
Popular approaches include:
Matching indoor and outdoor fireplace surrounds
Outdoor fireplaces aligned with interior living spaces
Fireplaces used to extend architectural lines into the landscape
This creates a unified design language across the entire property.
6. Outdoor Living All Year Round
Outdoor fireplaces are now essential to make outdoor spaces usable beyond summer. In 2026, designs focus on delivering real warmth while maintaining strong visual appeal.
Trends include:
Outdoor fireplaces designed for sheltered outdoor rooms
Fires combined with seating, landscaping, and dining areas
Heat-focused layouts that prioritise comfort and usability
Outdoor fireplaces are now central features in New Zealand garden design.
Regulations & Compliance: Outdoor Fireplaces NZ FAQ
Do outdoor fireplaces need to meet emissions standards in New Zealand?
No. Outdoor fireplaces do not need to meet emissions requirements in the majority of NZ locations when they can be viewed as a cooking appliance. This allows for more flexible outdoor fire designs compared to indoor wood fireplaces. Always check with your local council before installing.
Are there restrictions on outdoor gas fireplaces?
Yes. Outdoor flueless gas fireplaces can be subject to restrictions, particularly in relation to ventilation, safety, and local council rules. Many councils require correct clearances and compliance documentation. Always check with your installer and local council before purchasing and installing an outdoor flueless gas fireplace.
Do councils have rules for outdoor fireplaces in NZ?
Yes — and rules can vary by region. In many cases, outdoor fireplaces don’t require building consent, but councils may still have requirements for safety, smoke, and proximity to boundaries or neighbouring properties. Checking early helps avoid delays and ensures the fireplace is positioned correctly for your site.
Can an outdoor fireplace be both a heater and a cooking appliance?
Yes. Many outdoor fireplaces in NZ are designed as multi-functional features — providing warmth, ambience, and cooking capability — which supports their classification as a cooking appliance.
Outdoor Fireplaces NZ: Looking Ahead
In 2026, outdoor fireplaces in New Zealand are defined by architectural thinking, durable performance, and a strong connection to lifestyle. Whether sculptural or built-in, gas or wood, the best outdoor fireplaces are those designed as part of the overall landscape and architectural vision.
At Designs for Fires, we specialise in fireplaces for NZ homes, working with leading manufacturers to select and integrate biofuel, gas, wood, and sculptural outdoor fires that suit New Zealand conditions and contemporary design.
If you’re planning an outdoor space and want expert guidance on outdoor fireplaces in NZ, get in touch — we’d love to help design a space centred around fire.