10 Best Places To Buy Outdoor Cooking Equipment In NZ

As any keen camper, hiker, boatie or caravanner will tell you, the right cooking kit transforms a simple meal into a memorable moment. Whether you’re simmering stew beside a mountain tarn, firing up a portable grill on a fishing trip, or baking pizza in a wood-fired oven at the bach, choosing the right retailer matters—from the breadth of products and price points to delivery times and after-sales support.

This guide brings you ten of New Zealand’s finest sources for outdoor cooking equipment, spanning ultralight backpacking stoves and fold-away cook systems to specialist live-fire ovens and commercial-grade burners. You’ll find major online players like Mighty Ape, artisan specialists such as Food Over Fire, leading outdoor brands including Torpedo7 and Kathmandu, plus local outfitters with bricks-and-mortar stores for hands-on advice.

Before you head off with your new kit, we’ll cover essential safety and legal requirements for outdoor cooking in New Zealand—DOC fire permits, approved stove types on conservation land, and best practices for LPG storage and handling. With the right gear and know-how, you’ll be equipped to make every outdoor meal a highlight.

First up is Mighty Ape, celebrated for its extensive online range and hassle-free service.

1. Mighty Ape – Diverse Online Selection of Camping Cooking Gear

When it comes to convenience and variety, Mighty Ape stands out as a go-to for outdoor cooking equipment NZ enthusiasts. Best known for electronics, gaming and books, this online retailer has steadily expanded its camping cooking range, earning praise for selection and service.

Overview of Mighty Ape

Mighty Ape is one of New Zealand’s largest e-tailers, with a dedicated section for outdoor cooking. Their camping cooking section features everything from compact stoves to full kitchen setups. The site’s strength lies in its user-friendly interface—easy navigation, clear pricing and frequent stock updates ensure you can gear up without delay.

Key Product Categories

Their cooking gear spans:

• Foldable camping kitchens and pantry units that keep utensils and ingredients organised
• Cookware sets (pots, pans, skillets) in durable, heat-retaining materials
• Lightweight camping cutlery, plates and mugs designed for comfort and packability
• BBQ tools, grill plates and portable burners for everyone from solo hikers to family groups

Deals, Discounts, and Customer Reviews

Mighty Ape frequently runs seasonal promotions, such as summer cook-out sales offering up to 25% off selected cookware sets. They back many items with a price-match guarantee, so you won’t pay more than elsewhere. Each product page displays customer ratings—many camping stoves and pans average 4.5 out of 5 stars—and detailed reviews highlight real-world performance, helping you make confident choices.

Shopping Experience and Delivery Options

The website offers high-resolution images, comprehensive specifications and comparison tools, so you can weigh features before you buy. Delivery covers both urban and rural addresses across NZ, with free shipping on orders over NZ$75. Should gear not meet expectations, their straightforward 30-day returns policy makes swaps or refunds hassle-free. Whether you need a last-minute gift or you’re planning months ahead, Mighty Ape combines breadth of choice with reliable service.

2. Food Over Fire – Specialists in Live Fire Cooking Equipment

Food Over Fire specialises in authentic wood-fired and live-fire ovens for outdoor cooking enthusiasts who demand more than a simple flame. Their range of premium ovens brings restaurant-grade performance to your garden or bach, marrying industrial-strength materials with precise temperature control. If you’re after that smoky char on a homemade pizza or the perfect sear on roast vegetables, this is where you’ll find your gear.

Overview of Food Over Fire

At the heart of Food Over Fire’s offering is a devotion to live-fire cooking. Their ovens are designed and hand-assembled in Auckland from heavy-gauge steel and high-grade insulation. Unlike camp stoves or gas burners, these ovens rely on real wood or charcoal, giving food an unmistakable depth of flavour. You’ll spot their full range in the Kiwi Outdoor Collection, accessible via this link.

The Kiwi Outdoor Collection Highlights

The Kiwi Outdoor Collection features several standout models, each built to retain and radiate heat evenly. Prices start at NZ$7,300 for the entry-level bench-top unit, scaling up to full-size freestanding ovens. Highlights include:

• Thick stainless-steel construction for longevity and rust resistance
• Dual-layer insulation to maintain internal heat while keeping the exterior safe to touch
• Modular designs with removable ash trays and adjustable air vents for fine-tuning
• A suite of accessories: pizza peels, heavy-duty waterproof covers, custom rolling stands

Every oven undergoes a quality check to ensure weld strength and heat distribution meet demanding standards.

Pricing, Shipping and Returns

Food Over Fire offers clear, itemised pricing: base ovens, optional stands and accessories are listed separately so you can build your ideal setup. Orders over NZ$70 qualify for free shipping anywhere in New Zealand, tracked from dispatch to delivery. Should you encounter any issues or change your mind, the company’s 30-day returns policy lets you send back unused items for a full refund or exchange.

Authentic Cooking Experience

For a truly Kiwi cook-up, pair your oven with seasoned native hardwoods—manuka or macrocarpa impart a rich, smoky aroma. Ignite a small fire at the rear of the chamber, let it mature into glowing embers, then clear a cooking zone. A homemade pizza with a thin crust, tangy tomato base and fresh toppings will blister to perfection in under two minutes. Beyond pizzas, use the oven to bake sourdough loaves, roast joints of meat on a rotisserie attachment, or slow-cook stews in cast-iron pots nestled amid the embers. With Food Over Fire’s ovens, the campfire kitchen becomes an artisanal playground.

3. EquipOutdoors – Comprehensive Outdoor Cooking and Dining Sets

When it comes to bringing the comforts of home to the campsite, EquipOutdoors strikes a fine balance between variety and quality. This Christchurch-based retailer boasts an ever-evolving selection of cookware, tableware and accessories tailored to both family groups setting up camp in national parks and solo travellers lightening their pack. Whether you’re after a robust pot set for group meals or a compact kettle for summit teas, you’ll find it here.

Overview of EquipOutdoors

EquipOutdoors has carved out a reputation for supplying dependable outdoor gear across New Zealand. From its Christchurch headquarters, the team curates cooking and dining lines that cover every base: durable saucepans and frypans, nesting cook kits that minimise bulk, insulated mugs and plates, plus utensils manufactured from lightweight, food-grade materials. Beyond cooking, their broader camping catalogue spans tents, lighting and shelter accessories, making it a one-stop shop for weekend warriors.

Member Offers and Loyalty Program

Joining the Equip+ Members Club unlocks a suite of perks designed for the regular adventurer. Members earn points on every purchase, which can be redeemed against future orders. Exclusive member-only discounts—often 10–15% off popular ranges—arrive via email, as do early notifications of new arrivals. Occasional birthday vouchers and seasonal rewards further sweeten the deal, turning every purchase into an opportunity to save on your next getaway.

Latest Arrivals and Bestsellers

EquipOutdoors keeps its finger on the pulse of camper needs by rotating fresh stock into its cooking and dining range. Recent additions include:

• A 12-piece stainless-steel cutlery set with folding handles
• Hard-anodised aluminium saucepans in three sizes, complete with heat-resistant lids
• Collapsible silicone camping kettles that nest within pot sets

Meanwhile, bestsellers reveal what works in real-world conditions: the titanium cookset praised for its featherweight pack size, and the insulated pewter mugs that retain heat for morning coffees. These customer favourites signal durability and practicality, backed by consistent five-star reviews on the EquipOutdoors site.

Online Shopping and Customer Support

The EquipOutdoors website is built for clarity, with high-resolution imagery, zoomable product shots and concise specifications for every item. A live-chat feature connects you with knowledgeable staff, whether you’re comparing stove outputs or checking pan compatibility. Standard delivery options cover urban and rural NZ, with express shipping available for last-minute trips. All cooking and dining gear comes with a transparent warranty policy—most items carry a 12-month manufacturer’s warranty—and the support team stands ready via email or phone to resolve any post-purchase queries.

4. Wild Outdoorsman – Local Gear Experts with Cooking & Dining Range

Wild Outdoorsman is a family-owned outfit established in 2006 on New Zealand’s rugged West Coast. Serving campers, hunters and fishers from its Greymouth and Hokitika stores, this retailer combines hands-on expertise with an online platform that delivers cooking gear right across the country. Here, you’ll find a cooking and dining range on par with larger chains—backed by staff who’ve tested every jaffle iron and camp oven in real conditions.

Overview of Wild Outdoorsman

Since opening their first store in 2006, Wild Outdoorsman has earned a reputation for genuine outdoor know-how. Their West Coast outlets—strategically located near key transport routes—let you inspect gear in person, while in-house experts offer practical tips on grill setup, fuel efficiency and cookware maintenance. If you’d rather browse from home, the online cooking and dining collection is available at Wild Outdoorsman Cooking & Dining, complete with clear photos and detailed specifications.

Cooking & Dining Product Categories

Wild Outdoorsman’s cooking and dining lineup includes:

• BBQs, smokers and spits for beachside barbies or backyard feasts
• Portable gas and electric cookers built for coastal salt spray and alpine mornings
• Cookware: everything from robust cast-iron camp ovens to lightweight aluminium pans
• Dinnerware and utensils: melamine plates, insulated mugs and stainless-steel cutlery
• Fuel and gas canisters, plus regulators, refillable bottles and connector kits

Whether you’re stocking up on essentials for a family trip or aiming for ultralight solo gear, you’ll find products tested to withstand harsh NZ conditions.

In-Store Locations and Online Platform

Stop by:

• Greymouth: 8 John Street, Greymouth (Mon–Fri 8.30am–5.00pm, Sat 9.00am–2.00pm)
• Hokitika: 17 Mackay Street, Hokitika (Mon–Fri 9.00am–5.30pm, Sat 10.00am–2.00pm)

Prefer digital shopping? Wild Outdoorsman offers click-and-collect at both stores and nationwide courier delivery with transparent shipping rates. Online orders come with easy returns and the same expert support you’d get in-store.

Company Credentials and Experience

Nearly twenty years of service has forged strong community ties for Wild Outdoorsman. Local customers rave about the team’s willingness to share cooking hacks, troubleshoot stove issues and recommend the ideal fuel type for each appliance. More than just a retailer, they sponsor regional fishing competitions, tramping events and conservation initiatives—underscoring their commitment to the outdoor lifestyle they help support.

5. Outdoor Action – Adventure-Ready Electronics and Cooking Power Solutions

Whether you’re off-grid tramping in the Southern Alps or cruising the Coromandel in a caravan, reliable power makes all the difference when cooking outdoors. Outdoor Action specialises in adventure-grade electronics and power systems designed to keep your cookers, lights and gadgets running when you’re far from shore power.

Overview of Outdoor Action

Outdoor Action has built its reputation on equipping New Zealanders with sturdy, high-performance gear for off-road and remote settings. Their online store at Outdoor Action offers a curated selection of solar panels, battery stations and accessories, complemented by camping and marine electronics. Every product is chosen for durability, portability and ease of use, so you can spend less time troubleshooting and more time savouring your cook-up under the stars.

Power and Electronics for Outdoor Cooking

The heart of their range is power generation and storage. You’ll find foldable solar panels that harness Kiwi sunshine, rugged portable power stations capable of running induction cooktops or USB-powered cookers, and efficient inverters for converting DC battery power into household outlets. For those wanting fast top-ups, Outdoor Action stocks quick-charge solutions—from 12 V cigarette-lighter adaptors to high-output USB-C cables—so you can keep your devices, camp lights and even electric kettles primed for action.

Warranty and Service Guarantees

Outdoor Action backs their electronics with a lifetime warranty on manufacturing defects, reflecting confidence in build quality. Fast dispatch means most orders leave the warehouse within 24 hours, and if something doesn’t perform as promised, their straightforward returns policy ensures you’ll be back on track in no time. Tech support is available via email or phone, with specialists ready to troubleshoot setup or offer tips for optimal battery maintenance.

Flexible Payment Options and Delivery

Understanding that adventure gear can be a significant investment, Outdoor Action provides buy-now-pay-later plans through Afterpay and Zip. Their secure checkout supports all major cards and Google Pay, while order tracking keeps you in the loop from pack-down to doorstep. Shipping across New Zealand is fast and affordable—with options for standard courier, rural delivery or click-and-collect in Auckland—so you’re never left waiting when planning your next outdoor feast.

6. Dick Smith – Electronics and Commercial-Grade Outdoor Accessories

Dick Smith might be best known for consumer electronics, but its foray into rugged outdoor gear makes it a contender if you’re after heavy-duty cooking accessories. Backed by a well-established retail footprint and an easy-to-navigate online store, this retailer bridges the gap between domestic appliance know-how and commercial-grade cooking solutions.

Overview of Dick Smith’s Outdoor Accessories

At Dick Smith’s outdoor accessories, you’ll find a curated collection of gear engineered for durability and performance. Their heritage in electronics serves as a solid foundation for products built to withstand the elements—think weather-resistant power connectors, robust housings and controls borrowed from industrial appliances. It’s an offering that goes beyond the typical camping stove.

Gas Water Heaters and Portable Equipment

A highlight of their range is the series of gas-powered water heaters. Perfect for post-barbecue clean-ups or an al fresco shower, these units deliver a reliable flow of hot water with precise temperature control. Alongside these are compact portable shower kits—complete with a burner, water pump and showerhead—and large-format cookers designed to feed teams on worksites or families at the bach. If you need commercial-style performance in your field kitchen, Dick Smith’s selection won’t disappoint.

Retail Network and Online Store

Dick Smith operates stores across New Zealand’s major cities and regional centres, making hands-on product trials and expert advice readily accessible. Their online shop replicates this experience with detailed specifications, customer reviews and real-time stock levels. Opt for click-and-collect if you’d rather reserve gear online and pick it up when it suits. They also differentiate pricing between personal-use models and higher-capacity commercial units, so you can be confident you’re choosing the right appliance for your needs.

Range and Pricing Structure

From entry-level portable cookers under NZ$200 to professional burners surpassing NZ$1,000, Dick Smith spans a wide price spectrum. Value-minded adventurers will appreciate budget grill kits and basic shower setups, while those seeking long-term reliability can invest in premium stainless-steel burners with reinforced frames and advanced safety features. Seasonal clearance events—typically at the end of summer and winter—often feature bundle deals on stoves, fuel bottles and protective cases, delivering excellent savings on top-quality gear.

7. Torpedo7 – Outdoor and Adventure Specialist with Reliable Cooking Gear

When you’re gearing up for serious exploration—whether it’s summiting a peak or tackling backcountry tracks—Torpedo7 stocks cooking gear that’s been tested by pros and weekend warriors alike. They’ve earned a reputation for equipment that blends toughness with thoughtful design, ensuring your campfire meals are fuss-free and flavourful.

Overview of Torpedo7

Torpedo7 is widely regarded as New Zealand’s leading outdoor and adventure outfitter. Their camping cooking range covers everything from ultralight stoves to family-sized grill setups. With more than 40 stores nationwide and a fully featured e-commerce site, they cater to trampers, boaties and caravanners looking for gear that can handle Kiwi conditions.

Portable Stoves, Cookware, and BBQ Selections

Torpedo7’s cooking lineup spans key categories:

• Gas stoves: single-burner models for minimalist packs, plus multi-burner units for group cooking
• Solid-fuel stoves: wood-burning and alcohol variants for ultra-light adventures
• Cookware kits: nesting pots and pans in aluminium, stainless steel and titanium
• BBQ grills: from compact tabletop options to folding-leg barbecues for beachside feasts

Each range is curated with an emphasis on durability, fuel efficiency and ease of assembly, so you can focus on the cooking rather than the kit.

Promotions and Seasonal Sales

Torpedo7 regularly runs promotions aligned with the summer and winter seasons. You might spot up to 30% off selected gas stoves during the mid-winter sale, or clearance deals on cookware kits as new models arrive in spring. Signing up to their mailing list often nets an extra 10% off your first order, plus early access to Black Friday and end-of-season markdowns.

Click & Collect and Shipping Options

For those keen to pick up gear en route, Torpedo7’s Click & Collect service lets you reserve items online and collect them from any of their stores—often within a few hours. Standard delivery across New Zealand is free when you spend over NZ$149, backed by reliable rural carriers. If you’re in a hurry, their overnight shipping option ensures you get your stove or grill in time for your weekend trip. Returns are straightforward: unused gear can be sent back or dropped at store for a credit or exchange.

8. Kathmandu – Durable and Lightweight Camping Cookware and Stoves

When weight and toughness matter, Kathmandu’s cooking line stands out. Best known for rugged outdoor apparel and bags, they apply the same design rigour to cookware and stoves. Whether you’re summiting a peak with a minimalist stove or setting up camp beside a lake, Kathmandu gear combines functionality with pack-friendly features.

Overview of Kathmandu’s Cooking Range

Kathmandu has leveraged decades of outdoor expertise to curate a cooking range that balances performance and portability. Their camping cookware and stoves include everything from compact titanium stoves to nesting cook sets, all engineered for New Zealand conditions. You’ll find:

• Single-burner gas stoves with wind-resistant burners
• Ultralight carbon-fibre-reinforced pots and pans
• Integrated cook systems that pack into one container

Every item reflects Kathmandu’s commitment to durable materials and thoughtful ergonomics, ensuring gear won’t let you down when the trail gets rough.

Product Features for Durability and Portability

Kathmandu cookware and stoves share a suite of design elements focused on longevity and ease of use:

• Hard-anodised aluminium construction for scratch resistance and even heat distribution
• Compact nesting systems: pots, lids and bowls stack neatly to save space
• Fold-away handles with heat-resistant grips for safe handling and minimal bulk
• Lightweight alloy frames on stoves, paired with stainless-steel burner heads for corrosion resistance

These features mean you can carry a full cook setup without adding needless weight, then rely on it season after season.

Online Shopping and Store Locations

You can explore Kathmandu’s cooking collection online or in person. The e-commerce site offers high-resolution product imagery, comprehensive specs and user reviews. Shipping options include:

• Standard delivery across New Zealand
• Express dispatch for last-minute trips
• Click-and-collect from any Kathmandu store

Kathmandu operates dozens of retail outlets nationwide, with flagship stores in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. In-store staff can demonstrate assembly, suggest compatible fuel canisters and advise on packing strategies.

Member Discounts and Loyalty Program

Joining the Kathmandu membership programme unlocks rewards on every purchase. Members earn points redeemable against future orders, receive exclusive discount codes (often up to 15% off cooking lines) and gain early access to seasonal sales. On top of that, Kathmandu offers a generous returns policy—unused cookware and stoves can be returned free of charge within 30 days, giving you confidence to test gear before you head outdoors.

9. Macpac – Lightweight Cook Systems for Backpackers and Campers

Macpac has built its name on crafting gear that shrinks your pack weight without sacrificing performance. Since opening its first store in Christchurch over forty years ago, Macpac has led New Zealand’s outdoor retail scene, designing and sourcing equipment to tackle the toughest tracks and high-altitude campsites. Their cooking range is no exception—precision-built, featherweight and robust enough to handle repeated trips across the Southern Alps.

Overview of Macpac

Macpac specialises in outdoor apparel, packs and equipment, with a rich heritage dating back to 1973. Initially focused on mountaineering gear, the brand quickly expanded its catalogue to include shelter, sleeping systems and lightweight cook sets tailored to trampers and alpine climbers. Today, Macpac’s cooking collection reflects decades of field feedback, offering reliable kit for summit breakfasts and ridge-top dinners alike.

Cooking Equipment for Backpacking and Camping

Whether you’re planning a multi-day tramping trip or a weekend hinterland escape, Macpac’s cook systems cover every base:

• Backpacking stoves: Compact, single-burner gas and liquid-fuel stoves with wind-resistant burner heads
• Ultralight cookware: Hard-anodised aluminium pot and pan kits that nest together, complete with heat-resistant silicone handles
• Cutlery and kitchen tools: Titanium sporks, folding knives and multi-tools that weigh just grams but stand up to rugged use
• Water-boiling systems: Insulated mugs and kettles with integrated cozy sleeves, plus quick-boil stove combos for a hot cuppa in minutes

Each item balances weight, durability and packability, so you can keep your pack trim without missing out on creature comforts.

Membership Benefits and Sales Events

Joining the Macpac membership programme unlocks a host of perks for keen adventurers. Members receive:

• Personalised offers and previews of sale events, including the biannual End of Season Sale with up to 40% off selected cooking lines
• Exclusive in-store discounts and bonus Fly Buys points for every dollar spent
• Invitations to gear clinics and product-launch events, where you can handle new stoves and cookware before they hit the racks

These benefits ensure you get the best gear at the best price, season after season.

Delivery and In-Store Pickup Details

Macpac offers several fulfilment options to suit your timing and location:

• Free standard delivery on orders over NZ$150, with rural delivery available at competitive rates
• Express courier service for urgent needs, often delivering next business day to major centres
• Click & Collect from any Macpac store nationwide, so you can pop in at your convenience and avoid postage fees

With generous return policies and knowledgeable store staff, Macpac makes it easy to shop for cook systems that perform when you’re miles from the nearest road.

10. Hunting & Fishing New Zealand – All-in-One Outdoor Adventure and Cooking Supplies

For outdoor enthusiasts who prefer to source everything in one place, Hunting & Fishing New Zealand delivers a seamless mix of adventure gear and cooking essentials. With decades of experience outfitting anglers, hunters and campers, this retailer offers a cooking range that complements its extensive catalogue of outdoor equipment. Whether you’re packing for a multi-day hunt or a lakeside family trip, you can rely on H&FNZ to supply trusted brands alongside specialist advice.

Overview of Hunting & Fishing New Zealand

Hunting & Fishing New Zealand has built a reputation on catering to Kiwis who demand versatility in their kit. Their camping and cooking section brings together portable stoves, grills and cookware with the same attention to detail they apply to rods, reels and firearms. Backed by staff who know local terrain and hunting seasons, this retailer ensures you get gear suited to NZ conditions.

Cooking Equipment Range and Brands

Inside their cooking range you’ll find products from leading outdoor brands, including:

• Portable gas stoves and dual-burner cookers for fast, reliable heat
• Folding-leg BBQ grills and campfire platters for seaside or bushside feasts
• Hard-anodised aluminium and stainless-steel cookware: pots, pans, camp ovens and kettles
• Fuel canisters and multi-fuel bottles, plus regulators and connectors tested to NZ safety standards

Each category is curated to balance weight, durability and ease of use, making setup and pack-down straightforward on any trip.

Nationwide Store Network and Online Store

With over 60 stores from the Far North to Stewart Island, Hunting & Fishing New Zealand offers in-person browsing and expert guidance. Their website mirrors the in-store experience: high-resolution images, clear specifications and real-time stock levels. Click & Collect lets you reserve cooking gear online and pick it up at your local store, while nationwide courier delivery means overnight dispatch to major centres.

Regular Deals and Promotions

H&FNZ pairs its everyday low prices with regular promotions. Shoppers can earn Fly Buys points on every purchase, then redeem them for discounts on future gear. Seasonal clearance events—particularly at the end of summer and winter—feature markdowns on stoves, cookware bundles and campfire accessories. Member-only offers, flash sales and occasional bonus point days ensure you get the best value on trusted outdoor cooking equipment.

Essential Safety and Legal Requirements for Outdoor Cooking in NZ

Before you light your first match or flick on a burner, it’s crucial to understand New Zealand’s safety and legal framework for outdoor cooking. The rules exist to protect our forests, prevent wildfires and keep everyone—from trampers to bach-owners—safe. Below you’ll find key regulations and best practices to follow whether you’re stoking a backcountry stove or firing up a garden pizza oven.

Fire Permits and DOC Land Regulations

Public conservation land is managed by the Department of Conservation (DOC), which classifies fire seasons as prohibited, restricted or open depending on regional weather, vegetation and fire risk. During a prohibited period, no open fires or charcoal braziers are allowed; in restricted times, only approved appliances can be used under tight conditions; when open, basic safety precautions still apply.

If you plan to cook on DOC land, check the current fire season status and, where required, apply for a permit via the DOC website. Permits often stipulate:

• Exact locations where fires or stoves may be used
• Approved fuel types (e.g. bottled gas, liquid fuel)
• Conditions around fire containment and extinguishment

For detailed information on fire seasons and permit applications, refer to the Department of Conservation’s guide on fires on public land.

Approved Cooking Stove Types on Conservation Land

Not all outdoor cookers are created equal. To prevent accidental escapes of fire and minimise scarring, DOC permits generally allow:

• Gas burners with a stable base and flame guard
• Enclosed liquid-fuel stoves (e.g. pressurised white-gas units)

Conversely, the following are typically prohibited on conservation land:

• Open-topped liquid-fuel stoves (risk of spillage and flare-ups)
• Solid-fuel appliances such as wood or charcoal grills
• Uncontained campfires and fire pits

Always verify which stove types are permitted for your specific track or campsite, and carry evidence of your permit if required.

Safe Storage and Handling of LPG Cylinders

Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) is popular for its convenience, but incorrect storage or handling can lead to leaks, fires or even explosions. WorkSafe NZ’s guidance on LPG safety in hospitality offers practical advice you can apply outdoors:

• Store cylinders upright, on a firm surface, away from direct sunlight
• Keep a minimum clearance of 1 metre from any ignition source or combustible material
• Inspect valves, hoses and regulators for damage before each trip
• Never transport cylinders inside a sealed vehicle cabin—ventilate the load area
• Use only certified cylinder types and connectors rated to NZ standards

Regular leak checks—soapy-water test or approved leak-detection sprays—should become part of your pre-cook routine.

General Outdoor Cooking Best Practices

Even with permits and the right equipment, mindful cooking goes a long way to avoid mishaps:

• Clear your fire or stove site: remove leaves, twigs and debris in a 2-metre radius
• Maintain a safe distance from tents, low branches and other flammables
• Never leave cooking unattended; designate someone to watch the flame
• Have a bucket of water, sand or a fire extinguisher within arm’s reach
• Extinguish fully: cool embers and stove bases to ambient temperature before packing up

By following these rules and tips, you’ll not only comply with NZ regulations but also Camp Smarter and Leave No Trace behind.

Ready to Gear Up for Your Next Outdoor Cookout

You’re now armed with a shortlist of New Zealand’s top destinations for outdoor cooking equipment—from the convenience of Mighty Ape’s online catalogue, to Food Over Fire’s artisan wood-fired ovens, through to the specialised expertise of local retailers like Wild Outdoorsman and Hunting & Fishing New Zealand. Whether you’re chasing lightweight backpacking stoves or a heavy-duty camp oven, there’s a retailer on this list to match every cooking style and budget.

Remember, the perfect bite under canvas starts with the right gear and sound preparation. Before you head off, double-check your permit requirements, stove approvals and LPG handling guidelines to keep your trip safe and enjoyable. With the essentials covered, all that’s left is to load up, fire up and savour the flavours of the great outdoors.

For all your other outdoor, marine and industrial equipment needs, visit Action Outdoors – your one-stop shop for gear that won’t let you down, whether you’re on the water, in the bush or at the campsite.