Camping Stoves NZ — Complete Buying Guide (2026)

From a quick brew on a day hike to cooking dinner for the family at a campsite, the right camping stove makes outdoor cooking easy. Here's our guide to choosing the best camp stove for NZ conditions.

Types of Camping Stoves

Portable Butane Stoves

The most popular camping stove in NZ. Uses cheap, widely available butane gas canisters.

• Power: 2,000-3,500W — Good for boiling, frying, general cooking
• Fuel: Standard 220g butane canisters (available at supermarkets)
• Best for: Car camping, family camping, fishing trips
• Pros: Cheap, easy to use, stable, good heat output
• Cons: Bulky, butane struggles below 5°C, not great in wind

Compact Backpacking Stoves

Lightweight screw-on stoves that attach directly to a gas canister.

• Weight: 50-150g — pocket-sized
• Fuel: Isobutane/propane mix canisters (screw-thread)
• Best for: Tramping, day hikes, ultralight camping
• Pros: Ultralight, compact, fast boil times
• Cons: Small pot support, tippy, wind-sensitive

Dual-Burner Stoves

Two burners side by side — cook two things at once.

• Best for: Family camping, extended trips, base camps
• Fuel: Propane or butane
• Pros: Cook like at home — boil water while frying
• Cons: Heavy, bulky

Camp Stove Fuel Guide

Choosing the Right Stove for NZ

• Summer car camping: Portable butane — cheap, easy, plenty of heat
• Winter camping / alpine: Isobutane/propane — works below 5°C
• Multi-day tramping: Compact backpacking stove — light and fast
• Family base camp: Dual burner — cook proper meals

Safety Tips

• Never cook inside a tent — Carbon monoxide risk + fire hazard
• Use a windscreen — Improves efficiency and reduces fuel waste
• Check connections — Make sure canisters are properly seated before lighting
• Carry spare fuel — One 220g canister lasts about 1-2 hours of cooking

Shop Camping Stoves at Action Outdoors

Browse our camping equipment range or call 09 820 8023.