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In NZ, radiata pine or macrocarpa is the most commonly available softwood species suitable as firewood. Other
hardwood species like eucalyptus (bluegum) can also be mixed with softwood to achieve longer burns.
If you are cutting your firewood, only wood that has been air-dried in a sheltered, well-ventilated stack, preferably
for at least 12 months, may be burned in the Hurunui ULEB. To ensure that the wood has a 25% or less moisture
content, store it under a roof and protect against heavy rain. If you purchase firewood, buy firewood that is well
seasoned and has a moisture level below 25%. We recommend "Good Wood" merchants approved by your local
council.
Do not burn coal, driftwood, treated or painted wood, highly resinous wood, such as
"Old Man's Pine," plastic, plywood, chipboard, garbage, flammable fluids such as
gasoline, naphtha, engine oil, refuse, milk cartons, colored or printed paper. The
combustion of such materials can emit toxic, corrosive, and hazardous fumes that will
pollute the environment.
4.3 Testing Wood Moisture
There are several ways to confirm if the wood is dry enough.
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The wood moisture meter is the best way to check the moisture content of the wood fuel. Split a piece of
wood and then press the metering prongs firmly into the long side of a split piece to test moisture
content. 15-20% percent of moister content is ideal.
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If you purchase firewood, ask for dry seasoned wood and get it checked from your wood merchant.
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Dry wood weighs much less than wet wood.
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Wet wood is hard to light and will emit moisture from the ends while burning.
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Two dry pieces banged together sound hollow, and wet pieces sound solid and dull.
4.4 Recommended Log Sizes & Fire Starters
- A packet of matches or lighter
- A packet of firelighters. We recommend green firelighters made of wood waste
- Seasoned firewood about 300~325mm long in various sizes
o
(3.2A) For kindling - 18-20 finely split, dry softwood (total 1.5 kg approximately)
o
(3.2B) For intermediate 1 load – 5 pieces (total 1.5 kg, 375 g each approximately)
o
(3.2C) For intermediate 2 load – 4 pieces (total 3.0 kg, 750 g each approximately)
o
(3.2D) For main load – 3 or more pieces (Total 4.0 kg, 1.3 kg each approximately)
3.2A
3.2B
3.2C
3.2D
Using well-seasoned firewood is key to maintaining and improving the life of the
Hurunui Firebox
Summary of Contents for HURUNUI
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