Portable Camping Stove: 18 Top Picks for NZ Adventures 2025

That first hiss of flame that promises hot coffee can make or break a dawn start on the Milford Track. Choose the wrong stove and you may be stuck with half-cooked oats in a nor’wester; pick the right one and you’re frying snapper fillets within minutes. To save you the trial-and-error, we’ve compared the 18 best portable camping stoves available in New Zealand for the 2025 season—covering everything from 25-gram titanium burners to full-size twin-hob workhorses.

We rated each model on reliability, fuel efficiency, wind performance, local availability, and current pricing—while checking they meet Kiwi fire rules. You’ll also see which fuel types (butane, LPG, liquid multi-fuel, alcohol) are easiest to source nationwide, plus notes on boil times at windy campsites. Scroll on for the line-up, then stay for a practical buying guide, safety FAQ, and insider tips that help you match a stove to your next adventure.

1. Jetboil Flash 2.0 — Fast Boil System for the Morning Coffee Fix

Need a reliable caffeine kick before sunrise? The Jetboil Flash 2.0 is purpose-built for speed, bundling burner, flux-ring cup, cosy and lid into one tidy cylinder that disappears into the side pocket of a tramping pack. At a hair over 370 g you’re barely adding a muesli bar’s weight yet gaining a stove that can have 500 ml rolling within 100 seconds—handy when the West Coast drizzle won’t let up.

Key Specs & Numbers Kiwi Campers Care About

• Packed weight: 371 g
• Heat output: 9 000 BTU
• Boil time: ~100 sec (500 ml)
• Pot volume: 1 L with FluxRing heat exchanger
• Ignition: push-button piezo
• Typical NZ price: $249 – $279

What Makes It Shine in NZ Conditions

The insulated cup doubles as a mug, so there’s no extra dish to carry. Clip the stove onto a 100 g EN417 canister from any Mitre 10 or Macpac, twist, and you’re cooking—even in a Canterbury nor’wester if you add the optional Jetboil windscreen (still gas-safe when used above snow line under DOC rules).

Pros & Potential Drawbacks

Pros

• Lightning-fast boil conserves gas
• All-in-one packing: nothing rattles around
• Stable base with accessory tripod

Cons

• Limited simmer range—sauces can scorch
• Proprietary pot restricts cookware choice
• Higher upfront spend than “naked” burners

Best Use Case & Who It Suits

Perfect for solo or duo trampers chasing dawn summits—think Mueller Hut, Pouakai Circuit, or a quick beach brew on the Abel Tasman. If your menu stops at coffee, noodles and dehydrated meals, the Jetboil Flash 2.0 is hard to beat; pancake maestros should look further down the list.

2. MSR PocketRocket Deluxe — Lightweight All-Rounder with Pressure Regulator

Shaving weight without sacrificing everyday cooking comfort is the PocketRocket Deluxe’s party trick. The burner slips into a matchbox-sized case, yet its broad flame head and built-in pressure regulator mean you can still coax a gentle simmer for porridge or nail a rolling boil for freeze-dri meals.

A recessed piezo igniter removes the classic “clicker snaps off” worry, while serrated pot arms grip everything from a 500 ml titanium mug to a 2-litre family billy. For gram-counters who aren’t keen on proprietary systems, it’s the closest thing to “plug-and-play” versatility.

Key Specs & Numbers Kiwi Campers Care About

• Burner weight: 83 g
• Heat output: 10 000 BTU (≈ 2 900 W)
• Boil time: ~3 ½ min per 1 L at sea level
• Ignition: integrated piezo
• Pot supports: 12 cm span, serrated
• Fuel: EN417 screw-thread gas canisters (100 g / 230 g / 450 g)
• Typical NZ price: $159 – $179

NZ-Specific Highlights

Still pushes a steady flame at 0 °C dawns on the Milford Track, thanks to that micro-regulator. Gas resupply is painless—grab Primus, Coleman or Gasmate cans at Bunnings, Macpac, even many Four Square stores in Southland.

Pros & Potential Drawbacks

Pros

• Feather-light yet stable
• True simmer control for pasta, pancakes
• Reliable ignition set below wind lip

Cons

• Separate windscreen recommended (avoid canister overheating)
• Not an integrated cook system, so pack volume depends on chosen pot

Best Use Case & Who It Suits

Ideal for trampers, bikepackers and pack-rafters chasing sub-10 kg base weights but unwilling to give up “real meal” flexibility.

3. Primus Lite+ Stove System — Compact Side-Lock Pot

Primus shrunk its proven Lite series into a palm-sized system that still feels reassuringly solid on a windy tussock flat. The Lite+ locks its 500 ml pot to the burner via a clever twist-on sleeve; bump the tripod and the whole unit sways as one rather than sending dinner flying. At 390 g packed it sits between a bare-bones burner and a full Jetboil, giving solo trampers a tidy mid-weight option among portable camping stoves.

Key Specs & Numbers Kiwi Campers Care About

• Packed weight: 390 g
• Output: 1 500 W
• Pot capacity: 500 ml
• Boil time: ≈2 ½ min (500 ml)
• Ignition: manual spark or lighter
• Price in NZ: $229 – $259

NZ-Specific Highlights

The side-lock sleeve makes the pot rock-solid on uneven DOC picnic tables at Lake Waikaremoana. Remove the pot and the burner happily supports a 1-litre billy—handy if a mate forgets their stove. Fuel is standard EN417 canisters found at Mitre 10, Bunnings, or local i-Sites.

Pros & Potential Drawbacks

Pros

• Excellent fuel efficiency; meths bottle of gas lasts days
• Packs into its own pot with room for a 100 g canister
• Optional hanging kit for alpine bivvies

Cons

• 500 ml volume limits group meals
• Piezo spares scarce in NZ if igniter fails

Best Use Case & Who It Suits

Fast-and-light overnighters, solo bikepacking missions or trail runners who value a fuss-free brew system that won’t topple when the Kaikōura wind gusts.

4. Soto WindMaster with Micro Regulator — Best for Windy Tops

If you’ve ever tried to boil noodles on an exposed ridgeline only to watch the flame snuff out, the WindMaster feels like a small miracle. Soto recessed the burner into a concave dish and added a micro-pressure regulator, so the flame stays blue even as the wind howls or the canister chills. Swap between the three-arm “TriFlex” and wider four-arm pot stands depending on whether you’re running a solo mug or the hut’s communal billy—both snap on without tools. The result is a featherweight portable camping stove that behaves like a base-camp unit when the weather turns feral.

Key Specs & Numbers Kiwi Campers Care About

• Burner weight: 87 g
• Output: 11 000 BTU (≈ 3 200 W)
• Boil time: ~2 min 30 sec per 500 ml
• Pot supports: interchangeable 3- or 4-arm
• Ignition: optional stealth piezo
• NZ price: $199 – $219

NZ-Specific Highlights

Tongariro Alpine Crossing guides rate its wind resilience at Red Crater, and the regulator keeps performance steady down to freezing—ideal for early-season Ruahine trips when gas pressure normally tanks.

Pros & Potential Drawbacks

Pros

• Best-in-class wind resistance
• Consistent flame as canister cools
• Excellent simmer range

Cons

• Removable pot arms easy to misplace
• Piezo igniter can crack if bent in pack

Best Use Case

Climbers, alpine trampers and anyone cooking above the bushline where a normal burner would struggle—think Brewster Hut brews or Castle Hill boulder sessions.

5. Gasmate Trekker II Single Burner — Budget Canister Classic

If you just want a hot cuppa without torching the wallet, the Trekker II hits the sweet spot. This no-frills portable camping stove has remained a Kiwi staple because it does the basics well: screw it to a standard gas can, flick a lighter and you’re away. Solid fold-out legs give it more poise than many ultralights, and at a price that’s barely more than a café lunch it’s a handy backup even for seasoned trampers.

Key Specs & Numbers Kiwi Campers Care About

• Weight: ≈240 g (burner only)
• Output: 7 000 BTU
• Fuel: EN417 screw-thread butane/propane canisters (100 g, 230 g, 450 g)
• Ignition: manual (bring matches or a sparker)
• Pot support diameter: 14 cm
• Typical NZ price: $39 – $49

NZ-Specific Highlights

You’ll find the Trekker II on shelves from Kaitaia to Invercargill—Mitre 10, Hunting & Fishing, even some Four Squares stock it alongside gas. Gasmate’s O-rings and replacement control valves are easy to order locally, so a worn seal won’t sideline your weekend mission.

Pros & Potential Drawbacks

Pros

• Rock-bottom cost, ideal for first-timers
• Wide flame head spreads heat across frypans
• Fold-out legs and serrated arms boost stability

Cons

• Middling wind performance; needs a windshield on exposed campsites
• Heavier than titanium minimalist burners
• No built-in igniter

Best Use Case

Perfect for Scouts, budget road-trippers, or anyone after a cheap backup burner for power cuts and beach picnics. Pair it with a 230 g canister and a basic billy and you’ve got a reliable brew setup for less than fifty bucks.

6. Coleman Cascade Classic 2-Burner — Car-Camping Workhorse

When the whole whānau piles into the wagon, space is precious yet you still want the versatility of a home stove. The Coleman Cascade Classic folds into a slim suitcase, flips open to reveal twin high-output burners, and makes everything from pancakes to pasta feel effortless at the campsite.

Key Specs & Numbers Kiwi Campers Care About

• Weight: 5.9 kg (including grate)
• Output: 12 000 BTU per burner
• Cooking area: fits two 28 cm pans side-by-side
• Fuel: runs off standard 9 kg LPG bottle (hose & regulator supplied)
• Wind protection: 3-sided adjustable shields + locking lid
• Ignition: manual match-light
• Typical NZ price: $229 – $269

NZ-Specific Highlights

Hook it straight to a “swap-a-bottle” cylinder from BP, Z or Caltex—no fiddly canisters or adapters. The broad grate supports camp ovens for slow-cooked venison at Lake Taupō, and the removable drip tray passes DOC’s “clean bench” checks. Coastal users note: a quick squirt of CRC on the hinges keeps salt-air rust at bay.

Pros & Potential Drawbacks

Pros

• Excellent simmer control for sauces and rice
• Generous cooking space; lid doubles as back wind block
• Grate lifts out for easy dish-washing tub clean-up

Cons

• Bulky in small cars or tramping packs
• Steel hinges can corrode if stored damp
• Needs a solid table; weight rules out lightweight plastic camp stools

Best Use Case & Who It Suits

Family road-trippers, surf clubs, and fishing crews that base out of a ute or camper trailer. If you frequent powered DOC campsites—where large LPG bottles are welcomed—the Cascade Classic delivers reliable, even heat for multi-pot meals without raiding the travel budget.

7. Camp Chef Everest 2X — High-Output Twin Burner

For crews who rate brew time in seconds, the Camp Chef Everest 2X is the portable camping stove that happily dials past 11. Its twin 20 000 BTU burners unleash more heat than many backyard BBQs, yet the whole unit folds into a briefcase that slides behind a wagon seat. Thick nickel-coated grates shrug off heavy stockpots, while the clamshell lid and wrap-around windscreens tame gusts racing off Lake Wakatipu. If you’re catering for surf carnivals, scout jamborees or a hungry gaggle of groms, the Everest 2X keeps the kai flowing without queuing for a communal kitchen.

Key Specs & Numbers Kiwi Campers Care About

Spec	Figure
Weight	4.5 kg
Burners	2 × 20 000 BTU (≈ 5 800 W each)
Fuel	1 lb propane bottle (adapter incl.) or 9 kg LPG via hose
Ignition	Push-button piezo
Cooking area	Fits two 30 cm pans
NZ price	$349 – $399

NZ-Specific Highlights

The supplied adapter lets you run disposable Coleman 453 g bottles for quick weekenders, then switch to a swap-a-bottle LPG cylinder when parked up for a week at Ōhope Beach. A stainless drip tray stops greasy splash-back attracting sandflies, and the sturdy latches survive corrugated Otago back-roads without popping open.

Pros & Potential Drawbacks

Pros

• Blistering boil speeds for group brews
• Full-range dials give genuine low-flame simmer
• Beefy pot supports handle crayfish boiler pots

Cons

• Drinks gas when run flat-out
• Loud roar on max—can drown hut chatter
• Pricier than suitcase stoves of similar size

Best Use Case & Who It Suits

Made for large groups, adventure race support crews, or anyone needing café-level turnover at a remote base camp. If you’re boiling pasta for eight or blanching mussels at a surf-lifesaving comp, the Everest 2X is worth every decibel.

8. Optimus Polaris Optifuel — Go-Anywhere Multi-Fuel

When gas shops are two helicopter rides away, the Polaris Optifuel steps up. It burns almost anything liquid or gaseous you can legally carry: screw-thread canisters on summer bike tours, white gas or 91 unleaded on a remote Fiordland roar trip, even kerosene scrounged from a hut drip-can. A simple nozzle swap turns it from canister mode to liquid feed, while the integrated magnetic shaker keeps the jet clear without tools. For Kiwi adventurers who refuse to let fuel logistics dictate their route, this stove is the definition of insurance.

Key Specs & Numbers Kiwi Campers Care About

• Burner weight: 475 g (pump + hose incl.)
• Output: max 4 200 W (≈ 14 300 BTU)
• Fuels: EN417 gas, white gas, unleaded petrol, kerosene, diesel*
• Ignition: manual; priming wick for liquid fuels
• Field maintenance: flip-clean jet, no separate jets to lose
• Typical NZ price: $399 – $449
  *Diesel works in a pinch but soots more.

NZ-Specific Highlights

• Peace-of-mind on the Dusky Track where canisters aren’t sold.
• Runs happily on gas bottle decant fuel that many rural servos still stock as Coleman™ fuel substitute.
• Aluminium pump resists corrosion after salty boat drops in Fiordland.

Pros & Potential Drawbacks

Pros

• True multi-fuel versatility for global or backcountry trips
• Self-cleaning jet reduces clogging mid-mission
• Wide burner head offers decent simmer for rice

Cons

• Liquid-fuel priming has a learning curve and odour
• Louder than canister stoves
• Higher upfront cost, plus you’ll carry separate fuel bottle for liquids

Best Use Case

Expedition hunters, pack-rafters and long-haul trampers who might be days from a shop yet still want reliable hot meals. If your itinerary includes untracked valleys, alpine passes and maybe a flight to South America next year, the Polaris Optifuel means one stove, any fuel, anywhere.

9. Jetboil Genesis Basecamp System — Nesting Two-Burner

Jetboil shrunk a full camp kitchen into something that looks like a flying-saucer vinyl. Flip open the clamshell and two regulated burners appear, ready to simmer curry or blast a rapid boil. Because the pot and frypan nest around the stove, the whole rig slips into a 23 cm disc that slots inside a sea-kayak hatch or under a van seat—rare packing efficiency for a twin-hob portable camping stove.

Key Specs & Numbers Kiwi Campers Care About

• Packed weight (stove + 5 L pot + frypan): 3.6 kg
• Output: 10 000 BTU each burner (≈ 2 900 W)
• Pack size: 23 × 13 cm disc when nested
• Ignition: push-button piezo on both burners
• Fuel: runs off 450 g screw-thread gas canister or LPG bottle via Jetboil regulator hose
• NZ price: $649 – $699

NZ-Specific Highlights

The included JetLink hose lets you daisy-chain a third Jetboil skillet or Summit skillet—ideal when the whānau insists on crêpes and bacon at Ōhope. Everything wipes clean, so salty spray from a Hauraki Gulf crossing won’t corrode parts if you rinse it back at camp.

Pros & Potential Drawbacks

Pros

• Folds flatter than any other two-burner on this list
• Excellent simmer control for risotto or chocolate sauce
• Integrated wind ring keeps flames steady in coastal breezes

Cons

• Premium sticker price
• Nesting relies on proprietary cookware; third-party pots won’t pack down as neatly

Best Use Case & Who It Suits

Van-lifers, canoe expeditions and gourmet campsite chefs who crave home-kitchen versatility without filling the boot. If you’re happy to spend a bit more for compact convenience, the Genesis Basecamp might be the smartest space-to-performance ratio in a portable camping stove.

10. Trangia 27-3 UL Spirit Stove — Silent Alcohol Classic

Some bits of kit never go out of style, and the Swedish-made Trangia is the poster child. The 27-3 UL set bundles a meths burner, two 1-litre pots, frypan lid and nested windshields into a near-bomb-proof aluminium package. No pressurised gas, no moving parts—just silent, reliable heat that keeps on chugging long after many modern burners have seized or lost their igniter. If you value simplicity and the soothing hush of an alcohol flame, this is your throw-in-any-pack portable camping stove.

Key Specs & Numbers Kiwi Campers Care About

• Weight (complete set): ≈ 690 g
• Fuel: methylated spirits (denatured alcohol)
• Boil time: ~8 min per 1 L at sea level
• Integrated windshield & pot supports
• Packed size: 18 × 10 cm (nested)
• Typical NZ price: $189 – $219

NZ-Specific Highlights

Methylated spirits are sold in almost every Mitre 10, Bunnings and Four Square, so back-country resupply is painless. Because there’s no pressurised container, Interislander and regional buses treat it like standard household cleaner—just screw the cap tight and declare if asked. Many school outdoor-ed programmes specify Trangia to dodge gas restrictions during fire-risk season.

Pros & Potential Drawbacks

Pros

• Whisper-quiet operation; no roaring flame
• Integrated windshield shrugs off alpine gusts
• Virtually indestructible; nothing to service
• Burns cleanly in sub-zero temps where butane can struggle

Cons

• Slowest boil on the list
• Lower energy density means carrying more fuel weight
• Alcohol flame hard to see in bright daylight—use caution

Best Use Case

Ideal for Duke of Edinburgh groups, nostalgic trampers and winter missions where reliability trumps speed. Set it up on a hut bench, let porridge simmer while you pack, and enjoy the calm hush only a Trangia can give.

11. BioLite CampStove 2+ — Flames & Phone Charge in One

Ever wished your campfire could top up a head-torch or phone while it cooks dinner? BioLite’s CampStove 2+ turns that fantasy into a tidy orange cylinder. A small fan boosts combustion, the heat exchanger converts surplus energy into electricity, and a built-in 3 W USB port dribbles out enough juice to keep GPS tracking or Insta reels alive. Because it burns twigs, pinecones and biomass, there’s no gas canister to pack out—just collect dry sticks (where allowed) and spark up.

Key Specs & Numbers Kiwi Campers Care About

Spec	Figure
Weight	935 g
Fuel	Dry sticks, pinecones, pellets
Boil time	~4 ½ min per 1 L
Power output	3 W USB (3 200 mAh battery)
Fan speeds	4 (push-button)
NZ price	$299 – $329

NZ-Specific Highlights

Great for freedom-camping spots along the West Coast where driftwood is plentiful, but always check regional fire bans and DOC rules—solid-fuel stoves are often prohibited from 1 Dec to 31 Mar. The detachable battery module stores enough charge for one smartphone top-up even if rain forces you to switch back to the car’s lighter socket.

Pros & Potential Drawbacks

Pros

• Renewable fuel; no empty canisters to landfill
• Built-in fan creates smokeless flame for cleaner pots
• Generates electricity for torches, GPS, or GoPro

Cons

• Heaviest single-burner on our list
• Useless with wet wood; carry firelighters as insurance
• Banned at many DOC sites during high fire danger

Best Use Case

Off-grid road trips, festivals, or van-life stopovers where a portable camping stove doubling as a power bank saves space and sparks plenty of campsite curiosity.

12. Fire Maple FMS-300T Titanium — Tiny but Mighty

The FMS-300T is the definition of “just enough stove.” At a mere 45 g it vanishes into a mug, yet it still pumps out 9 500 BTU—more than many heavier aluminium burners. Ultralight trampers on Te Araroa rate it as the quickest way to turn a packet of noodles into dinner without tipping the pack scales.

Key Specs & Numbers

• Burner weight: 45 g
• Heat output: ≈ 9 500 BTU (2 800 W)
• Packed size: Ø37 mm × 52 mm (folded)
• Fuel: standard 100/230 g EN417 canisters
• Pot support span: 9 cm
• Typical NZ price: $89–$109

NZ-Specific Highlights

Titanium resists the salty mist that coats gear along Ninety-Mile Beach, while its micro-valve copes with the low-pressure butane/propane blends common at rural Four Squares. Pair it with a homemade foil windscreen to tame Canterbury’s nor’westers.

Pros & Potential Drawbacks

Pros

• Feather-weight; perfect for gram counters
• Surprising boil power for its size
• Wallet-friendly entry to titanium gear

Cons

• Narrow pot supports demand careful balancing
• Average wind resistance—needs a shield or hut porch

Best Use Case

Fast-packers, minimalist bikepackers or anyone wanting an emergency backup burner that lives permanently in the brew kit without adding noticeable weight.

13. Kiwi Camping Palm Butane Stove — NZ Brand, Solid Value

A staple on many Kiwi campsite tables, the Palm delivers reliable heat without hammering the holiday budget. Housed in a tough plastic carry case, it lights with one push and accepts the 220 g bayonet butane canisters you’ll spot at almost every servo from Whangārei to Bluff.

Key Specs & Numbers Kiwi Campers Care About

• Weight: 1.9 kg (stove + case)
• Output: 10 000 BTU
• Fuel: 220 g bayonet butane canister
• Ignition: piezo push button
• Pan support: up to 26 cm fry-pan
• Typical NZ price: $49 – $59 (often on special)

NZ-Specific Highlights

Butane cans are sold in dairies and petrol stations nationwide, making mid-trip refuels painless. The raised trivet keeps a camp fry-pan clear of the burner head, perfect for those sunrise bacon missions at Hot Water Beach.

Pros

• Wallet-friendly, local after-sales support
• Sturdy steel body, easy-clean drip tray
• Seconds-fast setup for roadside cuppas

Potential Drawbacks

• Butane loses pressure below ~5 °C
• Single burner limits multi-pot meals
• Case hinges can crack if over-packed

Best Use Case
Summer beach trips, backup power-cut cooker, or first stove for students hopping between DOC campsites without lugging LPG bottles.

14. BRS-3000T Ultralight Stove — Feather-Weight on a Coin Budget

With the BRS-3000T you’re paying pocket change for a burner that barely tips the scales at a couple of AA batteries. Slip it inside your titanium mug beside a 110 g canister and you’ll forget it’s there—until the hunger pangs hit.

Key Specs & Numbers Kiwi Campers Care About

• Burner weight: 25 g
• Heat output: ≈ 9 200 BTU
• Packed size: ≈ 35 mm × 50 mm (folded)
• Fuel: EN417 screw-thread gas (100 g / 230 g)
• Ignition: manual (bring a sparker)
• Typical NZ price: $39 – $49 online

NZ-Specific Highlights

Te Araroa thru-hikers rave about stashing this portable camping stove inside a billy with room to spare for a sachet of Raro. Titanium alloy shrugs off salt spray on pack-rafting legs, while its no-frills valve copes fine with the butane/propane blends sold at rural Four Squares.

Pros & Potential Drawbacks

Pros

• Lightest stove on our list—ideal for gram counters
• Surprising boil speed for its size
• Cheapest way into titanium gear

Cons

• Tiny pot supports demand careful balancing
• “Bee-hive” roar can be loud
• Poor wind resistance—carry a foil windshield

Best Use Case

Summit coffee, emergency brew kit, or any ultralight mission where every gram (and dollar) counts.

15. Dometic Cadac 2 Cook 3 Pro Deluxe — Multi-Surface Gourmet Griller

Want café-quality pancakes at Mount Maunganui on Saturday and perfect grill marks on Lake Taupō steaks Sunday? The Cadac 2 Cook 3 Pro Deluxe gives you that menu flexibility without hauling a full BBQ. Two independent burners sit under interchangeable ceramic-coated plates (flat and grill), so you can flip, sear or simmer at will. At 5.7 kg it’s no tramping toy, yet the suitcase form stores neatly in a van locker and the above-bench hose outlet keeps bulky LPG bottles out of foot-kick range.

Key Specs & Numbers Kiwi Campers Care About

Spec	Figure
Weight	5.7 kg
Burners	2 × 2 000 W (≈ 6 800 BTU)
Cooking surfaces	Flat plate & grill plate included
Fuel options	9 kg LPG bottle or 220 g bayonet butane (adapter)
Ignition	Dual push-button piezo
Typical NZ price	$349 – $389

NZ-Specific Highlights

Swap-a-bottle LPG cylinders from any BP plug straight in, while a cheap butane adapter caters for quick roadside brews when boot space is tight. Drain holes channel fat into a removable cup—handy for keeping sandflies off dishes at Fiordland camps.

Pros & Potential Drawbacks

Pros

• Versatile plates for grilling, frying, or pot cooking
• Even heat, thanks to wide burner spread
• Enamel surfaces wipe clean with a damp cloth

Cons

• Bulkier than classic suitcase stoves
• Extra plates add weight to pack-down
• Needs stable table; not suited to flimsy folding stools

Best Use Case & Who It Suits

Camper-trailers, glamping setups and food-loving families who prize gourmet options over gram savings. If you judge a campsite by the quality of its brunch, the Cadac 2 Cook 3 Pro Deluxe is your new best mate.

16. Eureka SPRK+ Butane Stove — Sleek Single-Burner for Tiny Tables

Apartment-dwellers turned road-trippers will love the SPRK+. Eureka shrank the classic suitcase design into a low-profile rectangle that’s barely taller than a deck of cards, yet still dishes out enough flame for a 28 cm fry-pan. The magnetic canister lock slides the 220 g butane can in from the side—no wrestling with levers—and a recessed burner keeps wind gusts from stealing your heat on lakeside picnic benches.

Key Specs & Numbers Kiwi Campers Care About

• Weight: 1.4 kg (stove + case)
• Output: 11 500 BTU adjustable simmer dial
• Fuel: 220 g bayonet butane canister
• Burner recess depth: 20 mm for wind shielding
• Pan support: up to 28 cm
• NZ price: $119 – $139

NZ-Specific Highlights

Its ultra-low profile suits narrow DOC picnic tables around Wānaka where bulkier stoves wobble. Butane refills are stocked at most Z and BP stations, and the hard-shell carry case keeps sand out on Coromandel beach days.

Pros & Potential Drawbacks

Pros

• Excellent simmer range for sauces
• Magnetic canister loading—no bent levers
• Robust clamshell case survives ute trays

Cons

• Butane pressure drops below 5 °C
• Single burner limits multi-pot meals
• Pricey compared with basic butane models

Best Use Case & Who It Suits

Couples road-tripping in hatchbacks, picnickers needing a tidy tabletop cooker, or anyone wanting a sleek backup to complement a charcoal BBQ without hogging boot space.

17. GSI Outdoors Pinnacle Pro — Super-Slim Folding Stove

Slip it under a ute seat or slot it beside a paddleboard: the Pinnacle Pro is only 28 mm thick when folded, yet opens into a stable twin-hob cooker. Anodised aluminium and stainless steel keep weight down to 4.1 kg, so you get proper kitchen power without lugging a brick.

Key Specs & Numbers Kiwi Campers Care About

• Weight: 4.1 kg
• Burners: 2 × 11 000 BTU
• Folded height: 28 mm
• Cooking area: fits two 30 cm pans
• Fuel: 9 kg LPG bottle (hose & regulator included)
• NZ price: $499 – $549

NZ-Specific Highlights

The ultra-flat pack is a boon for overlanders who already cram recovery gear and rods into every corner. A hard-anodised top wipes clean after cooking kaimoana, while the smooth flame profile avoids scorching thin billy bases—handy on DOC picnic tables whipped by Otago gusts.

Pros & Potential Drawbacks

Pros

• Flattest pack size of any two-burner
• Even blue flame delivers great simmer control
• Push-button ignition, beefy pot supports

Cons

• Pricey for casual campers
• Lid lacks deep side shields in strong winds

Best Use Case & Who It Suits

Space-conscious ute or van owners, SUP paddlers, and minimalist road-trippers wanting full-size cooking power that stows almost anywhere.

18. Weber Baby Q (Q1000) Portable Gas BBQ — Grill + Stove in One

Love the idea of a proper sear but still need a portable camping stove for stews and morning eggs? The Baby Q bridges that gap by packing full-size grill performance into a shell that rides easily in a hatchback boot.

Key Specs & Numbers Kiwi Campers Care About

Spec	Figure
Weight	10.6 kg (lid, base & grill)
Burner output	12 700 BTU stainless steel
Cooking area	43 × 32 cm cast-iron grate
Fuel	9 kg LPG bottle or small screw-on canister (adapter)
Ignition	Push-button piezo
Lid thermometer	Yes
Typical NZ price	$399 – $439

NZ-Specific Highlights

From summer cricket tailgates at Eden Park to long stays at Kaiteriteri Motor Camp, the Baby Q gets invited everywhere. Close the domed lid and you can roast lamb shanks, meeting most campground “portable stove” definitions while dodging open-fire bans. Spares—thermometers, grills, igniters—are easy to source locally, and Weber’s enamel coating shrugs off coastal salt spray.

Pros & Potential Drawbacks

Pros

• Unbeatable grilling; cast-iron retains heat for perfect char lines
• Lid and thermometer enable roasting and baking
• Robust build; parts readily available in NZ

Cons

• Heaviest unit on our list; two-hand carry
• Single cooking surface limits simultaneous pot work
• Needs table or stand; legs are not tall

Best Use Case & Who It Suits

Family beach BBQs, caravanners, and long-stay campers wanting oven, grill, and stove capability in one bomb-proof unit—no more juggling disposables when feeding a crowd.

Portable Camping Stove Buying Guide for NZ Conditions

Choosing a stove isn’t just a matter of “gas or no gas”. New Zealand’s climate, supply chain quirks and fire regulations all play a part. The quick run-down below will help you read spec sheets with a Kiwi lens and pick a portable camping stove that won’t let you down on the tops, the beach or the South Island back-roads.

Stove Categories & Fuel Types Explained

Before you fall in love with a shiny burner, match the category to your trip style:

Stove type	Common fuels	Typical users	Stand-out trait
Upright canister	Butane/propane isobutane mix (EN417)	Trampers, bikepackers	Light, no priming
Remote canister & hose	Same as above plus LPG bottle (adapter)	Family car campers	Can shield canister, better wind performance
Liquid multi-fuel	White gas, unleaded petrol, kerosene	Hunters, expeditions	Works anywhere in the world
Alcohol spirit (Trangia)	Methylated spirits (meths)	Schools, winter trampers	Silent, no pressure parts
Solid fuel tab (Esbit)	Hexamine blocks	Ultralight emergency	Ultra-packable, slow boil
Biomass / wood gasifier	Twigs, pellets, pinecones	Off-grid van-lifers	Renewable fuel + campfire vibes

Key take-aways for the NZ context:

• Butane/propane mixes stay liquid down to about -10 °C; 100 % butane struggles below 5 °C. If you winter tramp, look for isobutane in the blend or plan to keep the canister warm.
• LPG (propane) in 9 kg swap bottles remains gaseous in any NZ temperature you’re likely to camp in, making it the go-to for car-based trips.
• Methylated spirits is cheap, burns clean and is stocked at every Mitre 10, Bunnings and Four Square—ideal for school groups with large fuel budgets.
• Unleaded petrol is the last-chance option at remote stations when canisters are days away; just expect more maintenance and soot.

Fuel Availability & NZ Regulations

Getting fuel is usually easier than getting rid of it, so plan with the following in mind:

• EN417 screw-top canisters (100 g/230 g/450 g) are sold at most outdoor stores, large supermarkets and many rural petrol stations. Expect to pay $9–$15 for a 230 g in 2025.
• Bayonet butane cans (220 g) sit on servo forecourts next to ice bags—handy for late-night top-ups, but note ferry rules.
• Interislander & Bluebridge ferries: gas is allowed if the valve is shut and you declare it at check-in. Liquid fuels must be in certified containers.
• Domestic flights: zero tolerance—no gas, no meths, no fuel bottles no matter how clean. Post it ahead or buy on arrival.
• Summer fire bans (1 Dec–31 Mar in many regions): gas stoves are usually permitted; solid-fuel and biomass stoves are often prohibited at DOC sites. Check the local fire season status on the Fire and Emergency NZ website before you leave.

Power, Wind Resistance & Boil Time

Marketing numbers can mislead, so focus on real-world factors:

• BTU vs Watts: 1 W ≈ 3.412 BTU/hr. A 10 000 BTU burner is roughly 2 900 W.
• Regulators matter: Stoves with built-in pressure regulators (e.g. MSR PocketRocket Deluxe) hold flame strength as the canister cools or empties.
• Windscreens: Every minute you shelter the flame can save 2–4 g of gas. Use a foil wrap for upright stoves (maintain 4 cm gap from the canister) or pick a system with integrated shields like a Jetboil or Trangia.
• Elevation penalty: Water boils ≈ 1 °C lower per 294 m gain. At Mueller Hut (1800 m) expect water to boil ∼ 6 °C lower, so your pasta may need an extra minute even with the same BTU rating.

Weight, Packability & Durability

Kilograms on your back versus convenience at camp—decide your line in the sand:

• Under 100 g: pocket rockets (Fire Maple FMS-300T, BRS-3000T) for boil-only missions.
• 100–400 g: integrated systems that sip fuel and pack inside their own pot.
• 400 g–1 kg: remote canister or liquid stoves plus bottle—trade weight for all-weather reliability.
• 2–6 kg suitcases: two-burners for family cooking; look for stainless hinges to survive coastal corrosion.

Material tips:

• Titanium is half the weight of steel and resists salt, but it conducts heat unevenly—watch the scorch spots.
• Aluminium windshields dent but don’t rust and are easy to bend back on the track.
• Steel grates stand up to cast-iron pans yet add bulk; keep them oiled to avoid surface rust.

Simmer Control & Cooking Versatility

If your culinary ambition goes beyond instant noodles, eye these features:

1. Micro-adjust valves – allow feather-touch control for sauces; test by seeing if the flame holds at barely visible.
2. Wide burner heads – spread heat under larger pans; narrow “jet” flames specialise in rapid boils.
3. Remote hoses – let you invert the canister for liquid-feed mode in cold weather and keep big pots centred.
4. Swap-out surfaces – grill plates, Dutch-oven compatibility and daisy-chain systems (Jetboil Genesis) expand the menu without adding a second appliance.

Safety Tips for Portable Stove Use

People Also Ask reminds us: “Are portable camping stoves safe?” The answer is yes—if you respect a few non-negotiables.

• Stable surface: Level table or flat ground, 1 m from tent fabric, foliage and dry duff.
• Ventilation: Never run any stove inside a closed tent. In a vestibule, fully unzip the door and keep the flame low; carbon-monoxide poisoning is silent and fast.
• Canister checks: Reject rusty or dented canisters. Before screwing on, run a finger over the O-ring—replace cracked seals.
• Flare-up protocol: Turn the valve off first, then back away. Do not blow on a flare; that feeds it oxygen.
• Cool-down rule: Treat hot pots like molten cheese—handle only after the stove body is cool enough to touch.
• Annual maintenance: Soak spark igniters in isopropyl alcohol, clean jets with the supplied wire or toothpick, and test seals with soapy water bubbles.

Stick to those basics and the harshest consequence is likely to be burnt porridge rather than a fried flysheet.

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Armed with the facts above, line up your wish-list against the 18 models we’ve reviewed and you’ll find a portable camping stove that feels tailor-made for your next NZ mission—be it a Kepler solo dash or a Coromandel family fish-and-fry.

FAQ: Quick Answers to Kiwi Campers’ Top Questions

You asked, we brewed a coffee and crunched the numbers. Here are the bite-sized answers that sort out the most common camp-kitchen head-scratchers.

How long does a 220 g butane canister last?

A single 10 000 BTU burner running flat-out will drain a standard bayonet can in roughly 1 ½ hours. Nobody cooks on full blast the whole trip, though. In real Kiwi use—morning cuppa plus a 10-minute dinner simmer—you can expect:

• 2 people
• 3 × breakfasts (porridge + brew)
• 2 × dinners (pasta, curry, etc.)

Weigh the canister before you leave (full weight − empty tare of 120 g = usable fuel). Note the weight after each meal; when you’re down to about 60 g of gas the flame will sag in cold weather, so swap to a fresh can.

Are portable camping stoves safe to use inside a tent vestibule?

Short answer: don’t do it unless the alternative is hypothermia. Both open flame and carbon-monoxide (CO) build-up can turn a soggy night into an ambulance ride. If a storm forces your hand:

1. Fully unzip the vestibule door and create a through-breeze.
2. Place the stove on a level, fire-retardant groundsheet or an inverted billy lid—never directly on nylon.
3. Keep pots centred and fuel lines clear of fabric.
4. Post a spotter; one person cooks, another watches for flare-ups or drooping fly material.
5. The moment rain eases, move the stove outside.

Manufacturers, DOC and Fire and Emergency NZ all recommend cooking at least 1 m away from any shelter wall whenever possible.

Can I carry gas canisters on the Interislander ferry or domestic flights?

• Interislander / Bluebridge
  • Gas canisters and LPG bottles are allowed in your vehicle only.
  • Shut the valve, stash upright, and declare them at the check-in booth—staff will pop a little orange sticker on the windscreen.
• Domestic flights (Air NZ, Jetstar, regional operators)
  • Gas, meths, white spirit and empty fuel bottles with residual fumes are prohibited in both checked and carry-on baggage.
  • Options: courier fuel to your destination, pick up on arrival, or rent locally.

Trying to sneak a can past security can ground not just your stove, but your entire flight schedule.

What routine maintenance keeps a stove reliable for years?

A five-minute post-trip ritual beats mid-trip failure every time:

• Clean the jet: poke with the supplied wire or blast with aerosol carb cleaner.
• Swap O-rings annually: a $5 gasket beats a $250 replacement stove.
• Degrease threads: toothbrush + warm soapy water removes grit that chews brass valves.
• Leak-test: after reassembly, brush soapy water around all joins; bubbles mean tighten or replace.
• Store smart: keep fuel bottles and canisters cool, dry and away from direct sun—garage shelves, not car boots.

Treat your portable camping stove like you treat your boots: clean it, dry it, and it will carry you through many more seasons of adventure.

Ready to Cook Up a Storm?

From 25-gram titanium burners for a solo summit brew to full-blown twin hobs that feed a whānau, you now have 18 solid options that tick every Kiwi use-case. Match your pick to your trip length, fuel availability and wind forecast, then grab the matching gas, meths or LPG before Friday knock-off. Still on the fence? Swing by our Auckland store or browse the full camping-cooking line-up at Action Outdoors for expert chats, spare parts and local stock you can actually get your hands on. Chuck a stove in the pack, keep the marshmallows handy, and you’re set to turn any New Zealand campsite into your personal kitchen.