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7 Small Patio Wood-Burning Fireplaces in NZ

Admin — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT

A small patio doesn't mean settling for a portable brazier or a mushroom-shaped gas burner. Plenty of wood-burning fireplaces are built to fit tight decks and courtyards while still throwing real heat, with far more character than standard patio heaters.

If you've been wondering what the best wood-burning outdoor fireplace is for a small patio, this covers both halves of the job. We'll start with how to style a compact patio around a fire so the whole space works together, then compare seven wood-burning options you can buy in New Zealand.

Styling a small patio around a fireplace

When there isn’t as much room to work with, the fireplace provides your outdoor heating and sets the mood for the whole space, so it's worth planning the rest of the area accordingly.

Make the fire the focal point

Treat the fireplace as the anchor and angle everything else toward it. Facing your seating at the fire gives even a small courtyard a clear sense of purpose, and it means the warmth reaches everyone once it's lit.

Choose seating that saves space

Seating is where small spaces win or lose. Built-in bench seating or a tucked-in corner lounge keeps the floor clear, while a couple of weatherproof stools or poufs can be pulled in for guests and stored away the rest of the time. Leave a comfortable gap between the seats and the firebox so the heat has room to work.

Layer in softness and light

Small touches turn a paved corner into a room. An outdoor rug anchors the seating and defines the zone, cushions and a basket of throws invite people to settle in once the sun drops, and a few lanterns or string lights overhead carry the glow beyond the fire itself. Add a potted plant or two for life, and keep the look uncluttered so a small area doesn't feel crowded.

Let the fire do double duty

Make the fireplace earn its footprint. A model with a built-in wood store keeps your timber tidy and within reach, and one with a grill or hotplate means the same space gives you warmth, a centrepiece, and somewhere to cook, which counts when every square metre matters.

What to look for in a small patio fireplace

Four things decide whether a fire suits a compact space:

Safety: Check the clearances to walls, fences, and anything overhead, and confirm whether the unit can sit on a timber deck or needs a solid base beneath it.
Footprint: Size the fire to your entertaining area, not your house, so it warms the space without crowding the seating.
Heat output: A firebox that's too small gets lost outdoors, while an oversized one bakes a courtyard and burns through firewood.
Installation fit: Think about whether you can assemble it yourself, whether it needs a crane or a poured pad, and how the flue clears nearby structures.

Get those four right and even the smallest patio can carry a proper fire.

With the styling and the practicalities sorted, here are seven wood-burning fireplaces that suit small New Zealand spaces, starting with our own and followed by six others worth comparing.

1. Spencer by Trendz

The Spencer is our newest and smallest model, designed specifically for tight patios and decks. It's a lightweight kitset fireplace, so two people can assemble it on site in around 30 minutes with no crane and no concrete pad. At 370kg it's light enough to sit on a timber deck (installed to our guidelines), making it one of the most deck-friendly small space outdoor fireplaces you'll find.

Despite the compact 2200 x 1500 x 600mm footprint, it doesn't skimp. It's cast in glass-reinforced concrete, runs a 5mm steel firebox tuned for strong heat and a clean draw, and has an integrated wood store to keep firewood dry and close. A mesh door and a stainless cooking grill are available as optional extras.

If you want a steel firebox without the weight and hassle of a full concrete build, the Spencer is worth a serious look. See the full specs and finish options on the Spencer page.

2. Flare Deluxe

The Flare Deluxe is a compact model from Flare's Signature range of reinforced concrete outdoor fireplaces. At 1360mm wide and 720mm deep, it's one of their smaller shapes, and the firebox sits directly over a single built-in wood box, so it keeps a tidy footprint while still storing logs underneath.

The wide-mouth firebox takes a big fire and lets you cook over the embers, and the natural concrete can be left raw or finished with plaster, schist, or stone. It sits on a concrete pad and is craned into place with a Hiab, so it's a permanent, factory-finished fire rather than something you move around.

3. Aztec Pavilion

The Aztec Pavilion is a DIY concrete fireplace kit, made in the Bay of Plenty, that you assemble, plaster, and finish yourself. Its modular pieces are light enough to lift by hand, so no crane is needed, and two people can build it in around half a day.

You set it on a concrete slab and finish it to taste, plastering and painting for a modern look or cladding it in stone, with optional add-ons for a stainless flue, extra chimney height, and an NZ-made BBQ hotplate or grill. It suits anyone who wants a concrete fireplace and is happy to do the building and finishing themselves.

4. Woodsman Obelisk Outdoor Fire and BBQ

The Woodsman Obelisk is a freestanding fire made in New Zealand from 3mm Corten steel and designed to be left outside year-round. It measures H1850 x D512 x W512 and weighs 75kg, giving it a small, upright footprint.

It includes a stainless steel grill so it works as a BBQ as well as a fire, with an optional wood-fired pizza kit available. That makes it a reasonable pick for anyone who wants a fire and a cooker in one compact unit.

5. Tiny Anvil Cardrona

Tiny Anvil's Cardrona is a heavy-built Corten steel fireplace that uses a double skin of 4mm plate (8mm in total) to hold and radiate heat, with a 10-year structural warranty behind it. At 1200mm wide, 425mm deep and 970mm high, plus a bolt-on 1000mm chimney, it keeps a small footprint.

A removable insert makes the unit easier to position, and an optional pizza insert and paddle can be added for cooking. It suits anyone who wants a solid, long-lasting steel fireplace in a compact size.

6. AORAKI by Bray Design

Named after New Zealand's tallest mountain, the AORAKI is Bray Design's compact outdoor fireplace, made in Tauranga. It's built from heavy 4mm Corten plate that absorbs and radiates heat, with a chimney that funnels smoke up and away from the seating.

A cooking grill and spark arrestor can be added on request. It's a solid, heavy unit best set in a permanent spot, so it suits a patio where you want a fixed fireplace rather than something portable.

7. Onflame 1200

The Onflame 1200 is a freestanding Corten steel cabinet fire, handmade in New Zealand. It comes with a 1.5m flue and a spark arrestor cowl, and the cowl can be powder-coated to a colour of your choice (matte black is standard).

Its cabinet body keeps the fire self-contained and weathers to a rust patina over time, so it suits a courtyard or deck where you want a fixed, tidy-looking fire.

The right fit for your patio

Each of these outdoor fireplaces earns its spot for a different reason, whether that's cooking, portability, warranty, or a permanent built-in feel. The right one comes down to your space, how you like to entertain, and how much building or installation you're up for.

If one of our fires is on your shortlist, our brochure lays everything out in one place. Download the Trendz Outdoors brochure for full dimensions, finishes, and accessories across our range.

Create an Outdoor Space You’ll Love All Year Round

Admin — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Australians are known for their love of outdoor living, whether it’s backyard barbeques, casual catchups with friends, or unwinding with a wine beside the fire. Designing a space that brings together comfort, style and functionality can take a bit of planning, but the results are worth it.

Here are some inspiring outdoor area ideas to help you design a backyard that’s ready for entertaining year-round.

Creating A Cosy Outdoor Living Room

Looking to elevate your outdoor space? Create a dedicated outdoor living area where you can relax, entertain and unwind. Whether it's a new paved patio, a deck extension, or a private nook in the garden, this can become a true extension of your home.

To bring it to life:

Lay stone or concrete pavers for a timeless base.
Add shelter; with a pergola, roof extension or retractable awning.
Include an outdoor kitchen or built-in BBQ for fuss-free entertaining.
And of course, include a Trendz outdoor fireplace or fire pit as the centrepiece, adding warmth, ambience and architectural interest.

With thoughtful styling; plush furniture, soft lighting, and greenery, you’ll create a space that’s perfect for lazy afternoons and lively evenings alike.

Statement Pergolas

Freestanding or attached, pergolas are a practical way to define your outdoor zone while still feeling connected to nature. They also provide the perfect structure for climbing plants like jasmine or wisteria, which add shade, scent, and softness.

For a cosy evening vibe, drape festoon lights across the rafters and hang a hammock chair or swing seat to create a relaxed retreat.

Get the look: Mini Burton paint & plaster Monument™ | Corten steel woodboxes powder coated black | Flue extension

Poolside Perfection

A pool is the ultimate luxury in an Australian backyard and the surrounding space is just as important as the pool itself. Whether you have a sleek lap pool or a resort-style plunge pool, consider how to enhance the area for year-round enjoyment.

Natural stone paving, glass fencing, and lush tropical planting help elevate the aesthetic, while outdoor furniture creates zones for relaxing or entertaining. To take it one step further, a Trendz fireplace near the pool adds warmth, ambience, and a dramatic focal point, perfect for evening swims and poolside gatherings as the sun goes down.

Get this look: A Custom construction with a T1200 Firebox insert clad in [insert description] or a Trendz Hudson Fireplace would give you a similar look and the ability to have it installed in the morning and ready to use that afternoon.

Enhance with Greenery

Plants instantly elevate any outdoor area. Add depth and texture with oversized pots, tropical foliage, or low-maintenance natives.

A few ideas:

Plant Bird of Paradise in statement planters with trailing Star Jasmine for a resort-style look.
Install a vertical garden near your BBQ or outdoor kitchen filled with fresh herbs.
Plant fragrant herbs like thyme between pavers to release their scent as you walk.

Add Personality to Your Space

When it comes to backyard inspiration, the sky’s the limit. Think beyond the basics and include features that reflect your lifestyle:

Outdoor spa or plunge pool
Freestanding or Built-in pizza oven
A hanging chair or swing seat
A Trendz fire pit for a more flexible, social setup

Whatever you choose, the key is making sure your outdoor area feels like a natural extension of your home, stylistically and functionally.

Style with Intention

Whether you're working with a compact courtyard or a sprawling backyard, defining your aesthetic will help tie everything together. Start by considering your home’s architecture and finishes. Matching your fireplace to your Colorbond® roof or choosing tones that echo your cladding, or joinery will help your space feel cohesive and considered.

A Trendz fireplace doesn’t just provide warmth it creates atmosphere, encourages connection, and elevates the entire space.

At Trendz, we’re proud to help create lifelong memories with friends and family.

Why choose a Trendz outdoor Fireplace?

Admin — Wed, 14 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

If you’re considering an outdoor fireplace, chances are you’ve already discovered just how many brands, styles and options are out there. The big question is, which outdoor fireplace is right for your space and lifestyle?

In this article, we share the top reasons homeowners, designers and landscapers across Australia and New Zealand choose Trendz Fireplaces. From heat output and cooking capability through to design flexibility, quality and ease of installation.

8 reasons to choose a Trendz fireplace

1. Steel firebox

Every Trendz fireplace features a 6mm thick steel firebox with a double-skinned back plate for added strength and longevity. Specially designed internal baffles help radiate warmth more efficiently, increasing heat output and improving performance.

The steel construction also allows for oven-style cooking, making these fireboxes ideal for entertaining outdoors. Visually, the clean, minimalist design complements a wide range of architectural and landscape styles.

Trendz also offers the optional upgrade to stainless steel finished in satin black. We highly recommend this upgrade when your fireplace is being installed within 2 kilometres from an ocean/beach.

2. Simple, streamlined installation

Trendz fireplaces are prefabricated, making installation straightforward with minimal on-site work required.

You’ll need a concrete pad for the fireplace structure to sit on, which can be organised by your builder or landscaper. The fireplace is then delivered to a local depot, and a hiab or crane truck is used to position it onto the pad.

If your fireplace is supplied pre-finished (plastered and painted or Board-formed concrete), installation is as simple as attaching any wood boxes (if ordered), fitting the flue, and you’re ready to enjoy it.

For fireplaces supplied in bare concrete, we recommend that these are then finished onsite, common finishes we see are; schist (by far the most popular), brick or built into a wall and plastered and painted onsite.

3. Powerful heat output and cooking capability

Trendz outdoor fireplaces are designed to do more than just look good, they deliver serious warmth while also doubling as a barbecue.

Unlike traditional brick fireboxes, steel heats up quickly, making it ideal for roasting, grilling and oven-style cooking. From pizzas and vegetables to slow-cooked meats, everything can be prepared outdoors while your guests stay warm and comfortable around the fire.

If entertaining is a big part of your lifestyle, this dual functionality is hard to beat.

4. Designed and built in Australasia

Trendz fireplaces are designed and manufactured in New Plymouth, New Zealand, with performance and durability at the forefront. They’re built to handle a wide range of climates, from coastal conditions to hot summers and cooler winter evenings, making them well suited to Australian outdoor environments.

Trendz fireplaces are available throughout Australia, with delivery organised nationwide. Pricing included in our brochure includes delivery to your closest Mainfreight depot

5. Exceptional build quality

Each fireplace is constructed using reinforced concrete and high-quality materials designed for long-term outdoor use.

All Trendz fireplaces come with a 2-year warranty, covering structural cracking and failure of the steel firebox.

With simple maintenance, such as occasional touch-ups using Stove Bright® high-temperature paint, your fireplace will continue to look great and perform reliably for years to come.

6. Customisable accessories

You can tailor your Trendz fireplace to suit your backyard, and your homes style. Popular components include:

Polished concrete hearth
GRC hearth
Corten steel wood boxes
GRC wood boxes
Front door covers

These additions allow you to create a fireplace that’s both functional and visually aligned with your outdoor space.

Along with cooking accessories which transform your outdoor fireplace from ambience into a space to cook wood-fired pizzas through to a roast leg of lamb.

Swinging cooking grill
Pizza Hood Insert
Rotisserie

7. Flexible design finishes

Trendz fireplaces offer extensive design flexibility. Choose a fireplace silhouette from the range, then customise the exterior finish to suit your home or landscape design, including:

Plaster and paint
Custom schist
Brick
Riverstone
Mixed materials

For those wanting a ready-to-install solution, the Mini Burton and Burton models are available in a pre-finished plaster and paint option.

8. Family-owned and customer focused

Trendz is a family-owned and operated business, committed to making the process of choosing and installing an outdoor fireplace as easy as possible.

From initial advice through to after-sales support, the team focuses on practical solutions, quality craftsmanship and continual product improvement, ensuring your fireplace meets both aesthetic and functional needs.

Outdoor fireplaces in Australia

Trendz Fireplaces offer powerful heat output, safe and practical cooking features, and timeless design. Explore the range of outdoor fireplaces available in Australia, with options to purchase standard models or customise to suit your space.

Our Fireplace & Firebox Insert range includes:

Mini Burton
Burton
Douglas
Hudson
Single Peak
Twin Peak
T1200 firebox
T1600 firebox

To learn more, download our Outdoor Fireplace Brochure or get in touch with the team for personalised advice. We’re here to help you choose the right fireplace and bring your outdoor space to life.

What Customers Ask Us Most, And What You Should Know Before Buying

Admin — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

When choosing an outdoor fireplace, there's lots of considerations to think about from which style through to materials, performance, and longevity. We understand it's an investment and want you to love your outdoor fireplace from day one.

Below, we address the three most common concerns we’re asked, clearly, honestly, and without the jargon. Because, understanding what’s normal, what to expect over time, and when to seek advice helps ensure you get the most out of your fireplace.

1. Cracks & Surface Imperfections in Concrete

Concrete is valued for its strength, durability, and architectural appeal, but it’s also a porous material that responds to heat, weather, and movement.

What’s normal?

Fine hairline cracks and subtle surface variations are common, particularly noticeable in finishes such as board-form or bare concrete. These typically form during curing or as the fireplace heats and cools over time. In most cases, they are purely cosmetic and do not affect performance or safety.

Outdoor fireplaces are exposed to:

High heat during use
Cooling cycles once the fire goes out
Seasonal temperature changes
Minor ground or structural movement

All of these contribute to natural expansion and contraction.

What’s not normal?

Structural cracks, those that widen, progress, or impact the integrity of the fireplace, are not normal. These are rare when a fireplace is manufactured, installed, and used correctly, but should always be assessed by a professional if they occur.

Why finishing or sealing concrete matters

Trendz recommends finishing bare concrete fireplaces from an aesthetic standpoint. Plus, finishing or sealing your concrete outdoor fireplace does help protect the surface from moisture, staining, and accelerated weathering.

While sealing won’t prevent all natural movement, it does support long-term appearance particularly in exposed outdoor environments.

Not so keen on the concrete look? A popular finish we offer at Trendz, is 'plaster and paint', allowing you to have your Trendz outdoor fireplace painted in any Resene, Dulux or Colorbond colour you'd prefer.

2. Corten Steel “Bleeding” and Runoff

Corten steel, also called 'weathered steel' it is an option for woodboxes for the Mini Burton and Burton fireplaces. Corten steel is designed to weather and develop a protective patina. This evolving surface is a feature, not a flaw.

Why it happens

As Corten steel begins to weather, moisture can carry surface rust particles away from the steel. This can cause temporary runoff or staining on nearby surfaces, especially in the first few months after installation and during wet conditions.

What to expect over time

As the patina fully develops, it stabilises and acts as a protective barrier. Once this process is complete, runoff significantly reduces or stops altogether, leaving a rich, earthy finish that many homeowners love.

Planning makes the difference

To manage early-stage runoff:

Avoid placing Corten over light or unsealed surfaces
Seal adjacent concrete and paving
Allow for drainage during the weathering phase

With the right planning, Corten steel delivers long-term durability and character with very little ongoing maintenance. There is the option to upgrade from 'weathered Corten steel' to a powder-coated black corten steel, when selecting your woodboxes. Or skip the steel woodboxes all together and go with GRC woodboxes.

3. Smoke & Wood Choice

Smoke is one of the most common performance concerns we hear about, and in most cases, it’s not caused by the fireplace itself.

The most common causes of a smoky fire

Excess smoke is usually linked to:

Unseasoned or damp firewood
Burning softwoods, treated timber, or garden waste
Poor fire-starting technique
Wind conditions that affect airflow
Improperly installed flue/cap

Outdoor fireplaces rely on proper combustion. A small, hot fire built with dry kindling and well-seasoned hardwood will always perform better than forcing large logs of firewood too early.

When smoke is normal?

Some smoke during lighting, when adding new firewood, or on windy days is expected. Once the fire is established, smoke should settle quickly.

When to seek advice

If excessive smoke persists despite using dry hardwood, correct lighting technique, and favourable conditions, it may indicate an airflow or setup issue. In these cases, stop using the fireplace and seek professional guidance, taking a video or some pictures will help the Trendz team investigate what's going on.

Love Your Outdoor Fireplace

Outdoor fireplaces are built to last, but they’re also designed to live outdoors. Understanding how materials naturally behave helps avoid surprises and ensures you enjoy your fireplace for years to come.

Most concerns can be managed with:

Informed material choices
Proper installation
Correct use and ongoing care

If you’re ever unsure whether what you’re seeing is normal or needs attention, our team is always happy to chat and help you find a solution.

Small Space, Smart Design: Outdoor Fireplace Layouts for Compact Backyards

Admin — Wed, 19 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Even the smallest outdoor space has the potential to become a retreat; somewhere warm, intentional, and designed for everyday living. With the right proportions and layout, an outdoor fireplace can transform a compact courtyard, terrace, or townhouse garden into a space you’ll use year-round.

This guide explores four layout concepts designed specifically for smaller outdoor areas, complete with recommended minimum measurements, seating suggestions, and fireplace models that maximise both scale and atmosphere.

Start With Scale

When designing a small outdoor space, proportions matter. A well-chosen focal point simplifies the layout, creates flow, and anchors the space, and a fireplace does this beautifully.

As a starting point, here are a few universal spacing guidelines:

Allow 1–1.5m between the firebox opening and seating for comfort and warmth.
Keep a 600–900mm walkway for easy movement behind or around seating.
Build around one primary focal point, too many competing features can make compact spaces feel cluttered.

Once these fundamentals are in place, your outdoor living area becomes easier to plan and visualise.

Four Small-Space Layout Concepts

Each of the following layouts is based on realistic site footprints commonly found in New Zealand homes, from inner-city courtyards to suburban patios.

1. The Courtyard Retreat: Featuring the Mini Burton

Ideal footprint: Approx. 3m × 2.2m or larger
Best for: Villas, townhouses, compact patio areas

Layout essentials:

Mini Burton positioned against a boundary or exterior wall
Two armchairs placed 1.2–1.5m from the fire opening
A small side table in between (minimum 450mm access space around it)
600–800mm walkway behind or beside seating

Why it works:
The Mini Burton brings scale and architectural detail without overwhelming a small footprint. By keeping the seating tight and intimate, the layout becomes purposeful, perfect for slow mornings or unwinding at the end of the day.

2. The Symmetrical Lounge — Featuring the Hudson

Ideal footprint: Approx. 4m × 3m or larger
Best for: Outdoor rooms, pergola enclosures, defined entertaining zones

Layout essentials:

Hudson fireplace centred on the main feature wall
Two sofas facing each other, or a sofa paired with two occasional chairs
Seating positioned 1.5–2m from the fireplace
Low coffee table in the centre with 450mm minimum clearance around edges

Why it works:
The Hudson’s bold chimney and wide frame suit a more structured setting. Symmetry keeps the space feeling balanced and intentional, perfect for a cohesive indoor-to-outdoor flow.

3. The Entertainer’s L-Shape: Featuring the Douglas

Ideal footprint: Approx. 4.5m × 3.5m or larger
Best for: Homes where hosting is part of the lifestyle, dining outdoors, platters by the fire, and lingering late into the evening

Layout essentials:

Douglas positioned along the long boundary wall
L-shaped modular sofa or built-in bench 1.5–2m from the fire
Slim outdoor dining set parallel to the seating zone
Optional built-in kitchen or BBQ adjacent to the fireplace

Why it works:
The Douglas provides presence without dominating vertical or visual space. This layout encourages movement between cooking, seating, and dining — ideal for multifunctional small outdoor rooms.

4. The Fire Circle — Featuring the Trendz Fire Pit

Ideal footprint: Approx. 3m × 3m (round or square)
Best for: Flexible seating, relaxed gatherings, or spaces where the fire becomes the centrepiece

Layout essentials:

Fire pit centred in the space
Seating positioned 900mm–1.2m from the edge of the pit
Low chairs, built-in curved seating, or a combination depending on style
Open access pathways for easy movement and safety

Why it works:
Unlike a fireplace which creates direction, a fire pit creates connection, everyone faces each other. It’s casual, adaptable, and perfect for storytelling, toasted marshmallows, and conversation.

Styling + Design Principles for Compact Spaces

A few final ideas to help enhance layout and visual flow:

Built-in seating maximises every metre
Lighter floor finishes make small areas feel larger
Vertical or layered planting draws the eye upward
Use matching or complementary materials for indoor-outdoor cohesion
Choose fewer, high-quality pieces instead of multiple small items

The goal isn’t just to fit everything in, it’s to make the space feel calm, intentional, and inviting.

Ready To Design Your Own Fireside Space?

Whether you’re dreaming of a cosy city courtyard or a cleverly planned outdoor room, our compact fireplaces are designed to maximise both atmosphere and useable space.

Can I Build an Outdoor Fireplace Next to a Pool? Safety Guidelines & Smart Design Tips

Admin — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT

When designed well, an outdoor fireplace and swimming pool can work beautifully together. The result? A stunning, resort-style outdoor living space you can enjoy long after the sun goes down.

So, can you build an outdoor fireplace beside a pool?

Yes, you can. You just need smart planning, the right materials, and awareness of safety and layout considerations.

1. Safety First: What to Know Before You Build

Installing an outdoor fireplace near a pool is perfectly safe when done properly. The key is ensuring the placement and layout are intentional.

General safety guidelines include:

Keep the outdoor fireplace positioned a safe distance from the pool edge (always check local regulations).
There must be no permanent climbable objects within, 900mm in Australia and 1200mm in New Zealand, of the outside of the pool barrier (refer to the Non Climbable Zone (NCZ).
Avoid placing it in a high-traffic swim route or splash zone.
Ensure the area is flat and well-drained.
Use surrounding materials suited for heat and moisture (stone, tile, or concrete).

"Australian Standard 1926.1-2012 stipulates that when a Boundary Fence (min 1.8m) is used as part of the child resistant barrier than the Non Climbable Zone (NCZ) of 900mm will be measured from the inside (pool side) of the fence."

A well-planned layout makes the outdoor fireplace inviting, not in the way.

2. Best Placement Ideas for a Poolside Outdoor Fireplace

The right location improves safety, comfort, and visual balance. An outdoor fireplace should anchor the space, not compete with the pool.

Ideal placement options:

Alongside a lounge or entertaining zone: Creates a natural evening gathering spot.
Opposite the pool entry: Adds symmetry and a dramatic focal point.
Integrated into a retaining or feature wall: Helps with wind control and creates a cohesive design element.
Built into an outdoor kitchen: Functional and aesthetic

Avoid placing outdoor fireplaces where the structure might be climbed, creating unsafe access to the pool area.

3. Year-Round Use: Making the Space Functional Beyond Summer

A well-positioned outdoor fireplace extends poolside use into cooler evenings and off-season months.

For comfort and longevity, consider:

Weather-resistant cushions and modular seating
Outdoor lighting that connects pool and outdoor fireplace zones
Durable materials that handle moisture and temperature changes
A mesh door for the outdoor fireplace when not in use

This approach turns your pool area into a true outdoor living room.

A Beautiful Balance

A poolside outdoor fireplace isn’t just a trend, it’s a way to elevate your outdoor space, add warmth and ambience, and make your backyard usable year-round. With careful placement and a considered design, fire and water can coexist perfectly, creating a luxurious focal point that feels inviting in every season.

Thinking about adding an outdoor fireplace near your pool?
We’re happy to help with design considerations, clearances, and product recommendations to ensure it’s correct from the start. Let's chat!

The information provided above is intended as a general guide only. Pool safety requirements, fireplace regulations, and building codes may vary by region and are subject to change over time. Before planning or installing any structure near a pool, please seek advice from qualified professionals and local authorities to ensure compliance with current regulations.

We love hearing about your whole outdoor landscaping project

Admin — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT

When a customer reaches out to us at Trendz Fireplaces, it’s rarely just about choosing a fireplace. More often, it’s part of a bigger vision, whether that’s a full new home build, a landscaping overhaul, or the finishing touches to an outdoor living space that’s been months (or years) in the making.

We love being involved from the start. Looking over plans, understanding the layout, and getting a feel for your style, scale, and outdoor flow helps us recommend the fireplace model that will elevate the space, not just fit it. Our team has worked alongside architects, landscapers, and builders for two decades, and we’re always happy to share the knowledge we’ve picked up along the way.

Below are a few of the common planning questions we get, and some guidance to help you make decisions early in the process (before any costly changes become necessary later).

Fireplace + Louvre Roof

Yes, you can absolutely install a fireplace beneath a louvre or fixed roof structure.
However, placement makes a big difference.

If the fireplace sits directly beneath a roofline opening, it will require a triple skin flue to meet safety compliance and prevent heat transfer. These additional components are possible, but they do come at a higher cost. Often, shifting the fireplace back just a metre or two outside the immediate roof coverage avoids the need for a triple skin system; saving time, cost, and structural complexity.

Either way the Trendz team are here to chat through the options with you.

Fireplace + Timber Decking

Fireplaces and wooden decks are a popular pairing, and yes - they can safely co-exist. There are just a few things to factor in early:

Weight: some fireplaces weigh over 1 tonne, so structural support and footings are essential.
Deck height: lower decks are generally easier to work with than raised ones.
Non-combustible materials: a designated area in front of the fire must be heat-resistant and compliant, this could be; concrete, tiles, stone or fire-rated board depending on your design.

Planning these elements early ensures your deck and fireplace work seamlessly together, rather than being retrofitted around each other.

Fireplace + Swimming Pool

Fireplaces are a stunning feature beside a pool, but pool compliance rules need to be considered.

The key factor: climbability.
A fireplace cannot be positioned in a way that allows it to be used as an access point over a compliant pool fence. This means it must sit at least 900mm in Australia and 1200mm in New Zealand, of the outside of the pool fence/barrier (refer to the Non Climbable Zone (NCZ).

Some models, such as the Burton without hearth, naturally mitigate this issue due to their shape, giving more flexibility in placement. Or changing the position as shown below, with a Douglas and 800mm woodboxes.

The earlier you ask, the easier it is.

Whether you’re planning a pool, deck, outdoor kitchen or pergola, your outdoor fireplace should complement the space, not complicate it. A quick plan review early in the process can prevent design clashes, compliance headaches, or unexpected costs later.

So if you’re dreaming up an outdoor space and a fireplace is part of that vision, we’d love to see the whole plan.

Is a pizza oven insert worthwhile for an outdoor fireplace?

Admin — Thu, 12 Jun 2025 04:00:00 GMT

When you walk through most dedicated outdoor cooking or BBQ stores, you'll generally find dedicated pizza ovens starting at several thousand dollars. Browse online, and the premium models climb well into five figures. Yet many homeowners already own something that could deliver similar results: an outdoor fireplace.

The missing piece? A pizza oven insert that bridges the gap between what you have and what you want to achieve.

Why your outdoor fireplace is perfect for more than heating

Most people think of their outdoor fireplace purely as a heating appliance. It keeps guests warm, creates ambiance, and serves as a natural gathering point. But that same intense heat source represents untapped potential for serious outdoor cooking.

Unlike gas grills or electric outdoor ovens, wood-fired cooking delivers flavors you simply can't replicate elsewhere. The high temperatures, wood smoke, and radiant heat create the ideal environment for authentic pizza making.

Your outdoor fireplace already produces all of this. You just need an insert to make it work for cooking.

Understanding pizza oven inserts: more than just an accessory

A pizza oven insert isn't simply a cooking grate or stone you place in your fireplace. It's a complete cooking system designed to work within your existing fireplace structure. The best inserts create a controlled cooking environment that maximizes heat efficiency while providing the tools needed for professional-quality results.

Quality inserts typically include:

Insulated hood system that traps and circulates heat around your food
Purpose-built pizza stone engineered for even heating
Temperature management features like adjustable vents or heat deflectors
Durable construction designed for repeated high-heat use

Our pizza hood cooking accessory meets all these requirements, but don’t take our word for it, as V. Rutledge says in their Google Review, “...I was a bit sceptical about how well the pizza hood would work, but it far exceeded my expectations. I never have to buy pizza again!”

The insert creates a temporary oven within your fireplace, giving you the benefits of a dedicated pizza oven without permanent installation or separate space requirements.

Before diving deeper into how these work, explore our range of cooking accessories for outdoor fireplaces to understand all your options.

The economics: inserts vs other options

Here's where the investment case gets interesting. A standalone outdoor pizza oven requires:

Dedicated space in your outdoor area
Professional installation (for built-in models)
Separate fire management and fuel storage
Additional maintenance and winter protection

Premium portable pizza ovens offer more flexibility but often lack the power and capacity for entertaining groups. They also require separate storage and setup time.

A pizza oven insert for an outdoor fireplace works with your existing fireplace investment. You've already paid for the structure, installation, and outdoor space allocation. But it simply unlocks additional functionality from infrastructure you already own.

Why regular fireplaces struggle with pizza cooking

The thing about outdoor fireplaces is that they're brilliant at what they're designed for (heating people), but not as great for what they're not (cooking food evenly). The open design that makes them perfect for radiating warmth actually works against you when making pizza.

Without containment, your fireplace sends most of its heat outward into the night air rather than surrounding your food. This creates unpredictable hot and cold spots that leave you with burnt crusts and raw centres. The lack of a proper cooking surface means you're essentially trying to balance pizza on logs or grates that weren't meant for this purpose.

Most frustrating? The timing becomes pure guesswork. What should take 2-3 minutes stretches into a much longer, less predictable process.

How pizza hood inserts solve these problems

A quality pizza hood addresses each of these challenges directly. The hood design traps heat that would otherwise escape, creating the intense, circulating environment that pizza needs. Instead of heat radiating away from your food, it bounces around the enclosed space, cooking both the top and bottom of your pizza simultaneously.

The included pizza stone provides a stable, heat-retaining surface that cooks your crust evenly while the hood manages the cheese and toppings above. Temperature becomes much more predictable and manageable.

Think of it this way: your outdoor fireplace provides the raw power, but the pizza hood gives you control over how that power gets used. For those looking into outdoor fireplace pizza oven options in New Zealand, this represents an ideal middle ground between basic fireplace cooking and dedicated pizza oven installation.

Performance expectations: what inserts can and cannot do

Pizza oven inserts excel at creating intense, even heat for quick cooking. Expect cooking times similar to dedicated pizza ovens: 2-3 minutes per pizza once properly heated. The wood-fired flavor profile matches traditional brick ovens, and you can achieve the same crispy-chewy crust texture that makes wood-fired pizza distinctive.

However, inserts work within the constraints of your existing fireplace design. While they create excellent cooking conditions, they may not reach the extreme temperatures that some dedicated ovens achieve. For most home pizza making, this difference doesn't matter much.

Choosing an insert: what to consider for your fireplace

Not every insert works with every fireplace. Think about these factors:

Fireplace dimensions: The insert must fit your firebox properly while allowing adequate clearance
Construction materials: Your fireplace materials need to handle the increased heat cycling
Ventilation requirements: Proper smoke management becomes more critical during cooking
Storage and portability: Consider whether you want permanent installation or removable designs

Many homeowners prefer removable inserts that can be stored when not in use. This preserves the traditional fireplace experience while adding cooking capability when desired.

Is it worth the investment?

A pizza oven insert makes financial sense when you consider frequency of use and entertaining value. If you use your outdoor fireplace regularly and enjoy hosting gatherings, the insert pays dividends in expanded functionality and guest experience.

The investment typically costs 70-80% less than installing a dedicated pizza oven while delivering similar cooking results. For homeowners who want wood-fired cooking capability without major construction or space reallocation, inserts offer an elegant solution.

The decision comes down to how you'll actually use it. If you envision regular pizza nights and frequent outdoor entertaining, an insert represents excellent value.

Your outdoor fireplace already brings people together and creates lifelong memories with friends and family. A pizza oven insert would enhance those memories, while sharing food, and learning who loves pineapple with their pizza and who is against that. Which side are you on?

Ready to explore all the cooking possibilities your outdoor fireplace can offer? Download our ultimate guide to cooking on an outdoor fireplace.

How to cook a pizza on an outdoor fireplace

Admin — Thu, 17 Apr 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Have you ever had the aroma of wood-fired pizza fill your backyard on a warm summer evening? It’s nothing short of magical, and the only thing that beats it is when you finally take that first bite. A crisp base, melted cheese, and that unique smokey flavour that you just can’t beat…

We have already explored how to cook in a wood-fired pizza oven, but you might not have the space for one. So the good news is that you can still make a mouthwatering pizza using your outdoor fireplace as we explore how it can be turned into a pizza-making powerhouse using our premium pizza hood accessory.

Delicious wood-fired pizza from your outdoor fireplace

Making the dough

When you want a fantastic pizza, start by perfecting your dough. You want it to be chewy yet crisp, solid enough to support the toppings while still being light and airy on the inside. Of course, everyone has different tastes, and one of the best things about making your own pizza at home is that you can adjust the dough to your liking. Make it a little thicker for a more substantial base, or keep it slim for that authentic Neopolitan style.

Here’s a simple recipe - a family favourite from our ultimate guide to cooking on an outdoor fireplace.

Ingredients:

500g high-grade flour
7g instant yeast
10g salt
325ml lukewarm water
2 tbsp olive oil

Method:

Combine flour, yeast, and salt in a large bowl.
Make a well in the centre and add water and oil.
Mix until it forms a dough, then knead for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for at least 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
Divide into 3-4 balls for individual pizzas.
Rest for another 20 minutes before shaping.

The slow rise is important for developing flavour, so no skipping. If you have the time (and fridge space), it’s even better if you just make your dough the day before and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. This produces a deeper, more complex taste that really intensifies when cooked in a wood-fired environment.

Preparing your outdoor fireplace

Temperature control is something you’ll have to master for a perfect pizza, and it’s even more important with the Trendz pizza hood cooking accessory on an outdoor fireplace. Unlike with conventional ovens, wood-fired cooking depends on a balance of direct and ambient heat. But our pizza hood cooking accessory helps this concept by trapping the heat and letting it circulate around your pizza, similar to how traditional brick ovens work.

Now, here's how to prepare your outdoor fireplace:

Fuel your fire at least 60 minutes before cooking.
Use dry, seasoned hardwood for the best heat and flavour.
Let the fire burn down to hot embers with small flames.
Attach your pizza hood cooking accessory to your outdoor fireplace.
Check the temperature of the stone, ideally between 250-300°C. You can use your conventional oven to initially get the pizza stone to this temperature.

Patience is key when you cook pizza on an outdoor fireplace. Wait until your fire has a good bed of embers with a small, manageable flame, and this will ensure you keep the heat consistent throughout the cooking process.

Cooking a pizza

This is when the magic happens. The combination of intense heat plus the wood smoke creates that distinctive flavour that you can’t get with a normal oven.

First, stretch your dough on a floured surface to about 30cm diameter.
Transfer to a lightly floured pizza peel.
Add toppings, but remember less is more.
Slide onto the pizza stone included with your pizza hood.
Rotate your pizza using the paddle every 20-30 seconds for even cooking.
Your pizza should be ready in 2-3 minutes.

Don’t stress if your first few don’t turn out perfect, there’s a learning curve to cooking with fire. With time and practice, you will develop a feel for when to rotate the pizza and when to pull it out.

Our tip: look for those leopard spots on the crust, wait for the cheese to bubble, and make sure the base is firm enough to be lifted out without losing its shape.

Our favourite topping combinations

Classic Margherita (Red Base)

This classic is still popular for a reason. If you want the quality of your ingredients and your cooking skills to speak for themselves, this margherita is the perfect choice. Naturally, you want to make sure you’re using the best ingredients you can find - ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and aromatic basil. When cooked in your outdoor fireplace, the flavours will intensify and turn into a mouthwatering masterpiece.

Tomato sauce
Fresh mozzarella
Fresh basil leaves
Extra virgin olive oil
Sea salt

Quattro Formaggi (White Base)

For cheese lovers, this four-cheese masterpiece is irresistible. The white base lets the different characteristics of each cheese shine through without the distracting acidity of tomato. Its complex flavours, from the sharpness of the parmesan to the creaminess of the ricotta, make this a delicious but sophisticated choice.

Olive oil and garlic base
Mozzarella
Blue cheese
Parmesan
Ricotta
Fresh thyme

Endless cooking options

When attached to your outdoor fireplace, our premium pizza hood cooking accessory creates ultimate perfection for an authentic wood-fired pizza, complete with a pizza stone for that crispy base. But it’s only one of our premium cooking accessories specially designed to enhance the aesthetic of your outdoor fireplace, or turn your outdoor fireplace into a complete outdoor kitchen with endless flavour possibilities.

Our outdoor fireplaces can be equipped with a stainless steel cooking frame for grilling, or even a high-quality rotisserie to make succulent roasts. If you’re craving a meal cooked with fire, it’s now as easy as stepping into the comfort of your own backyard.

The heart of your outdoor entertaining area

An outdoor fireplace isn’t just about keeping you warm, it’s a luxurious focal point for your outdoor living area. A dedicated pizza oven might only be used once or twice a month, but your outdoor fireplace provides endless warmth, allowing you to entertain friends and family outdoors. All while serving up a fresh pizza with that unmistakable wood-fired flavour.

Planning to unlock all sorts of flavour possibilities?

Summer cocktail ideas to serve around your outdoor fireplace

Admin — Mon, 25 Nov 2024 05:00:00 GMT

It’s a warm summer afternoon with friends and family gathered in your outdoor space, the smell of bread and herbs wafts up from your outdoor fireplace — what better than a refreshing summer cocktail?

In this article, we share a few of our favourite crowd-pleasing summer drinks. Whether you’re hosting the whole family or enjoying a balmy night to yourself, you can whip these beverages up with ease. We even share a few tasty appetisers too!

Our favourite summer cocktail recipes

Blueberry and maple mojito mocktail

This single-serve mocktail is from New Zealand Masterchef, Brett McGregor. We love the classic combination of mint and lime, paired with the fun addition of blueberries and maple syrup.

Ingredients
8-10 mint leaves, plus more for garnish
1 tbsp fresh lime juice
1 tbsp good quality maple syrup
⅓ cup blueberry juice - no added sugar
½ cup soda
Frozen blueberries

Method

Add 8 to 10 mint leaves to your glass and muddle well to release the mint flavour.
Add the lime juice, maple syrup, blueberry juice, and soda water. Stir to combine all ingredients. To make this into a cocktail, add white rum.
Add ice, a handful of frozen blueberries, and mint leaves to serve.
Put your feet up and enjoy your drink by the fireplace.

Recipe by New Zealand Masterchef, Brett McGregor.

Basil smash

The basil smash is a classic for a reason — it’s fresh, easy, and delicious. This recipe was developed by New Plymouth’s own Juno Gin! You can set up everything you need on your outdoor table, letting the drinks flow well into the evening.

Ingredients
45ml gin
20ml lemon juice
15ml sugar syrup
7 basil leaves
Ice

Method

Fill your glasses with ice and set aside.
Add all the ingredients into a shaker and shake until the shaker is cold. If you prefer a non-alcoholic drink, substitute the gin for tonic or soda water.
Double-strain the mixture into the prepared glasses and garnish with a fresh sprig of basil.
Enjoy your delicious creation with a wood-fired pizza or one of the appetisers below.

Recipe by Juno Gin.

Spicy margarita

For those who like a little kick, this spicy margarita is perfect. With the heat from your drink as well as the crackling outdoor fireplace, your summer evenings will be hard to beat.

Chilli syrup
1 red chilli, sliced
50g golden caster sugar

Cocktail mix
150ml tequila
75ml triple sec
25ml chilli syrup (see ingredients above)
25ml mango juice
25ml lime juice
Handful of ice

Salt rim
½ lime, zested
2 tsp sea salt flakes
2 tsp golden caster sugar
½ tsp chipotle chilli flakes

Method

Make the chilli syrup first, placing one sliced red chilli and 50g of caster sugar in a saucepan with 50ml of water. Bring this to a simmer over low to medium heat, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved. Turn off the heat and leave to cool completely.
For the salt rim, mix all the ingredients and tip onto a shallow plate. Lightly brush the rims of your glasses with lime juice then dip them in the salt mixture. When finished, fill each glass with ice.
Tip the cocktail ingredients into a large cocktail shaker and shake vigorously until the outside of the shaker feels cold. If you prefer a non-alcoholic drink, substitute the tequila and triple sec for soda water.
Strain the cocktail into a large jug and stir well before pouring it into the glasses.
Serve your margaritas with guacamole and flatbreads baked in your outdoor fireplace!

Recipe by BBC Good Food.

Summer appetisers to cook on your outdoor fireplace NZ

Flatbread

Flatbreads are simple to make with a skillet or griddle pan on your outdoor fireplace grill. Alternatively, you can cook them directly over the hot coals for an extra smoky and charred flavour. Try this recipe from The Salt Box.

Bacon wrapped scallops

Using your Trendz cooking frame and a skillet, you can make these mouth-watering scallops wrapped in bacon. Try this Delish recipe.

Wood fired pizzas

With our pizza hood, you can have restaurant-quality pizzas any day of the week. Use this dough recipe and prepare all the classic toppings for everyone to make their own.

Cooking accessories for your concrete outdoor fireplace NZ

An outdoor fireplace is much more than just a heat source, it’s also the ultimate outdoor kitchen! With our range of cooking accessories, you can whip up almost any meal without having to trek back inside the house.

Cooking frame

The main cooking frame is our base unit, designed for other cooking accessories to sit atop. These include the rotisserie, pizza hood, hot plate, and grill.

Rotisserie

Our rotisserie attachment is ideal for roasting meats evenly. Prepare the meat before your guests arrive, load it onto the grill, and watch as it cooks to perfection.

Pizza hood

Designed to mimic a traditional pizza oven, this hood and pizza stone pump out delicious wood-fired pizzas in minutes. It even comes with a laser thermometer to make your life easier.

Hot plate

The hot plate is ideal for grilling and searing. Simply slot it on top of the main cooking frame, stoke the flames, and load it up with all your favourite foods.

Whether it’s a balmy summer day or a chilly winter evening, our outdoor fireplace will keep you warm and well-fed. Browse our full range of cooking accessories for more outdoor fireplace ideas.