For generations, Cantabrians have trusted wood burners to keep the cold out and the living room warm. But times change — and so do the rules.

If you live in Christchurch (or anywhere in Canterbury), you’ve probably heard about Clean Air Zones and the push to phase out older, smoky burners. Maybe you’ve seen the letters from the council. Or maybe you’ve just noticed neighbours pulling out old flues.

So what’s really happening — and what do you need to do about it?

 

What is a ULEB Fireplace?

ULEB stands for Ultra Low Emission Burner. It’s the new generation of wood burners — designed to burn hotter, cleaner, and meet strict air quality standards set by Environment Canterbury (ECAN).

ULEBs are tested using Canterbury Method 1 (CM1) — a real-world testing process that proves they perform cleanly and efficiently in typical daily use. To qualify, a ULEB must:

  • Emit less than 38 milligrams of particulate matter per megajoule (mg/MJ) of useful heat

This is a different method to the national Clean Air rules, and it’s only ULEBs that are approved for new installs in Christchurch Central’s Clean Air Zone.

Important: Just because a fire is "Clean Air Approved" doesn’t mean it’s a ULEB. Always check ECAN’s authorised ULEB list.

Find out for yourself by checking ECAN's Authorised Burner List. 

stclair250 roomset 3 web res
stclair250 roomset 3 web res

Why Canterbury Cares About ULEBs

Canterbury’s Clean Air Zones aren’t new — but they’re becoming stricter. Older wood burners and open fireplaces are one of the biggest contributors to winter air pollution in Christchurch.

That’s why ECAN has introduced phase-out deadlines for non-compliant burners. In practical terms:

  • Some suburbs already ban certain models.
  • Most older burners must be replaced by 2030
  • Non-compliance could lead to fines or enforced removal

A ULEB fireplace keeps your home warm and your paperwork sorted. And with proper installation, it still delivers the real wood fire experience — no compromises. Check out Christchurch’s Home Heating Guidelines here.

 

How to Choose the Right Wood Burner

If you’re ready to replace an old fire — or spec one for a new build — the main thing is matching the right model to your home, your zone, and your consent.

Here’s how to get it right:

1. Know your zone:

Use ECAN’s Clean Air Map to find out if your property is within a regulated area. Open the clean air zone map.

2. Choose a ULEB:

Only burners listed as ULEBs on ECAN’s authorised list are allowed in Christchurch. Don’t assume Clean Air Approved = ULEB. Always check the label.

3. Get the Right Consent:

Installing a ULEB still requires council consent in most cases. This process can feel tricky — especially if you’re doing it alone. That’s where we come in.

clean air map stoke chc 2025
clean air map stoke chc 2025

How Stoke Can Help

This is where we come in. At Stoke, we live and breathe fireplaces — and we know Canterbury’s air rules inside out.

We help homeowners:

  • Confirm their Clean Air Zone
  • Check if their old burner needs replacing
  • Choose an approved ULEB that suits their space
  • Sort the paperwork, consent and install — no last-minute surprises.

If you’re an architect or specifier, we’ve got you covered too — with the right clearances, technical specs, and local approvals to keep your project moving.

 

Ready to Make the Switch?

Upgrading to a ULEB fireplace isn’t just about ticking the compliance box. It’s about keeping the real wood warmth — and doing it in a way that keeps the city’s air clean for everyone.

Got questions? Our local team is here to help.

Contact your local Stoke store today