But with that comes people getting injured while chopping, lifting and carrying wood, or adding wood to fires.
And recovery from those injuries also costs the most in Otago, Accident Compensation Corporation injury claims show.
In 2025, ACC accepted claims for 865 firewood-related injuries in the Otago region, which came at a cost of $2.01 million to help people recover.
In the same year, ACC also accepted 353 firewood-related injuries in Southland, which cost taxpayers $618,000.
Nationwide, 8426 injury claims were made, costing $15.3m and it was the highest number of new claims in the past five years.
ACC injury prevention leader James Whitaker reminded New Zealanders to slow down and take care when handling firewood.
‘‘Most of these injuries are predictable and therefore preventable,’’ he said.
‘‘Our top tip for handling firewood safely is to slow down.
‘‘Many firewood-related injuries happen simply because people are rushing.
‘‘Instead of overloading yourself and trying to carry too many pieces of wood at once, use a wheelbarrow, take multiple trips, or get someone to help you.’’
Firewood-related injuries peaked in the winter months of 2025, Mr Whitaker said.
In May, 921 claims were accepted, 1073 in June, 1255 in July and 1122 in August.
Most injuries were soft-tissue injuries (6515). Lacerations/punctures/stings numbered 1186 and a total of 182 people had a fracture/dislocation after dealing with firewood. Another 106 people made burn-related claims.
Mr Whitaker said wood fires were a cost-effective way to heat an entire home if they were used safely.
Trips and hazards were the biggest cause of injury. Falls were responsible for about 40% of home-related injuries and lifting, carrying and straining accounted for another 18%.
‘‘We want New Zealanders to stay warm and dry through winter, but we also want them to stay safe and injury free in the process.
‘‘Injuries don’t just affect the injured person.
‘‘If you hurt your back carrying firewood, you might not be able to be as involved with your kids or grandchildren and your workmates may need to take on some of your tasks.’’
Fire and Emergency New Zealand also urged homeowners to have their chimneys swept before use, use a fireguard or spark guard and dispose of ashes carefully.
Ashes can stay hot for up to five days and should be submerged in water and left to cool in a metal container on a concrete or metal surface — not on decking or flooring.
Fenz also recommended keeping furniture and anything flammable at least 1m away from heaters or fireplaces and to make sure there was a working fire extinguisher in the home.
