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Your go-to guide to staying warm and dry

New Zealand’s winters can be unpredictable, with some regions facing mild chills while others experience freezing temperatures. A well-chosen heating system ensures your home stays warm, dry and comfortable, no matter where you live. Whether you're searching for the best heat pump, an energy-efficient wood fire, or a portable electric heater, we’ve got heating options to suit every home and budget.

Understanding your heating needs:

Choosing the right heater isn’t just about picking a model, it’s also about understanding how well it will work in your home. Different factors impact how efficiently a heater will perform and how much it will cost to run over time. A couple of things to consider when looking to buy the best heating solution for your space:

Upfront cost vs. Running cost

  • Cheap heaters (e.g. fan heaters) cost less upfront but are expensive to run.
  • Heat pumps and wood fires have higher upfront costs but lower running costs.
Pro tip icon
Pro tip: Don’t just look at the sticker price—check the estimated annual running cost.

Electricity vs. Gas vs. Wood

  • Electric heaters are widely available but can be costly to run
  • Gas heaters offer fast, powerful heat but require ventilation and a gas supply.
  • Wood fires are cost-effective long-term but need installation, firewood storage, and maintenance.
Pro tip icon
Pro tip: Prioritise energy efficiency - if you want low running costs and convenience, heat pumps are the most energy-efficient option.

Here are a few extra key things to consider:

Room size - Small bedrooms need different heating solutions than open-plan living areas.
Insulation - Well-insulated homes retain heat better and need less energy to stay warm.
Usage frequency - Do you need occasional heating, or will it run all day?
Air quality & moisture control - In damp environments, pairing heating with a dehumidifier can improve warmth and air quality.
Safety features - Look for heaters with automatic shut-off, cool-to-touch exteriors, and thermostat control for safe operation.

Calculating the right heater size

Personal

Localised area <3m²

Heating a single person, such as in bed.

Small

<10m²

Small bedrooms, home offices or study areas.

Medium

10–18m²

Bedrooms, dining rooms and hallways.

Large

18–28m²

Living rooms, lounges and large bedrooms.

X-Large

28m²+

Garages, workshops and extra-large open spaces.

Matching your heater to your needs

Not all heaters are the same, here’s a quick guide to help you choose based on how and where you’ll use it.

Pro tip icon
Pro tip: Match your heater to how often you use it. For all-day heating, choose an energy-efficient model.
Heating solution
Best for
Key features
Room size
On-demand heat to warm up your space fast
• Plug-and-play convenience
• Affordable and efficient
• Portable
Small to Medium (up to 18m²)
Reliable, long-lasting warmth in cold climates
• High heat output
• Uses sustainable wood fuel
• Requires a flue installation
Large to Whole house heating (18–250m²)
Whole-home heating with cooling flexibility
• Energy-efficient heating and cooling
• Remote control for easy adjustments
• Multi-season use
Medium to Large (10–28m²)
Instant, powerful heating for large areas
• High heat output
• Flued and unflued options
• Fast-acting warmth
Large (18–28m²)
Personal warmth for beds and seating areas
• Adjustable heat settings
• Energy-efficient
• Safe and cozy
Small (<10m²)
Targeted warmth for small spaces
• Compact and portable
• Quick, efficient heating
• Ideal for spot heating
Small (<10m²)
Helps reduce dampness and improve heating efficiency
• Removes moisture & reduces condensation
• Prevents mould/allergens
Small (10m²) to Large (18–28m²)
Heavy-duty heating for large spaces
• High-capacity performance
• Multiple installation options
• Built for large-scale use
X-Large (28m²+)

Heating solutions for every home

Take a closer look at our heating solutions on offer to find out what will work best for your space.

Electric Heaters

Portable
Versatile heating
Fast warm-up
Budget friendly

Electric heaters are easy to use and affordable, making them a go-to option for renters or short-term heating needs. They provide fast heat, require no installation and are easy to move from room to room. From fan heaters for quick bursts of warmth to panel heaters for steady heat, there’s a model to suit every space.

Recommended room size:

Small (<10m²)
Medium (10–18m²)

Key features:

  • No installation required—just plug in and heat
  • Suitable for personal and whole-room heating
  • Affordable upfront cost though running costs vary
  • Wide variety of heater types available
Shop Electric Heaters
Electric Heaters

Want help choosing?

Compare electric heater types below or jump straight to the one that suits you:

Micathermic heaters

Micathermic heater

Medium - Large (10–28 m²)

Quiet and efficient warmth for personal spaces like bedrooms.

Learn more about micathermic heaters
Column heaters

Column heater

Small - Large (10–28 m²)

Great for maintaining steady warmth in living rooms or lounges.

Learn more about column heaters
Ceramic heaters

Ceramic heater

Small - Medium (10–18 m²)

Ideal for warming up small rooms like home offices or bedrooms.

Learn more about ceramic heaters
Convector heaters

Convector heater

Small - Large (10–28 m²)

Quiet, whole-room warmth for medium-sized bedrooms or lounges.

Learn more about convector heaters
Fan heaters

Fan heater

Small (<10 m²)

Best for quick bursts of heat in small spaces like bathrooms.

Learn more about fan heaters
Flame effect heaters

Flame effect heater

Small - Medium (10–18 m²)

Adds cosy visual ambience while gently heating a room.

Learn more about flame effect heaters
Panel heaters

Panel heater

Small - Large (10–28 m²)

Slim and discreet, ideal for background heating in bedrooms or hallways.

Learn more about panel heaters
Radiant heaters

Radiant heater

Small (<10 m²)

Delivers direct heat to people or objects, perfect for spot warming.

Learn more about radiant heaters
Info icon
Don’t forget noise levels - For bedrooms, nurseries or quiet workspaces, select models with low noise ratings or special modes like "sleep" or "whisper quiet." This ensures effective heating without disrupting your peace. If noise is a concern, check the decibel (dB) rating before buying.

Gas Heating

Portable
Fast warmth
High heat output
Effective for large areas

Gas heaters provide instant, high-output warmth, making them ideal for large rooms and open-plan spaces. They heat up quickly and maintain a steady temperature, offering efficient and reliable heating. Flued models vent moisture and emissions outside, while unflued options are portable and flexible but require proper ventilation. If you have a gas connection or LPG bottles, gas heating can be a cost-effective and powerful alternative to electric options.

Recommended room size:

Large (18-28m²)

Key features:

  • High heat output for quick warmth
  • Available in flued and unflued models
  • Ideal for large spaces
  • Requires gas supply & proper ventilation
Shop Gas Heaters
Gas Heater

Wood Fires

Fixed
Wood burning
High heat output
Long lasting heat

A wood fire gives off strong, consistent heat that keeps the whole room toasty. It’s a reliable heating solution, especially in colder regions or during power outages. These heaters produce steady long-lasting warmth, making them ideal for cold climates and larger living areas. Whether you prefer a modern wood burner or a classic fireplace there’s a style to suit every home. For an easy all-in-one solution, our Wood Fire Kits include the fire, flue and shield, everything you need for a seamless installation.

Recommended room size:

Large (18–28m²)

Key features:

  • Provides high consistent heat output
  • Cost-effective if you have access to firewood
  • Works during power outages
  • Requires installation & a flue system
Wood Fires
Info icon
Safety tips -
  • Gas heaters require ventilation to avoid CO2 build-up.
  • Fan and radiant heaters can be fire hazards if placed near furniture or curtains.
  • Wood fires need chimney cleaning to prevent fire risks.
  • Pro tip: If you have kids or pets, consider cool-to-touch heaters with built-in safety shut-offs.

Heat Pumps & Air Conditioners

Fixed
Climate control
Energy-efficient
Whole home heating

Heat pumps are one of the most cost-effective ways to heat your home, offering efficient, consistent warmth with minimal energy use. Instead of generating heat, they extract warmth from the air and distribute it throughout your space, making them cheaper to run than traditional electric heaters. They also double as air conditioners, keeping your home cool in summer and warm in winter. With precise temperature control and programmable settings, they provide comfort all year round while reducing energy waste.

Recommended room size:

Medium (10-18m²)
Large (18-28m²)

Key features:

  • Heats and cools in one unit
  • Low running costs
  • Remote controlled operation
  • Requires professional installation
Shop Heat Pumps
Heat Pumps & Air Conditioners
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Smart & programmable heating -
  • Wi-Fi-enabled heaters allow remote control.
  • Programmable timers let you set schedules for warmth before you wake up.
  • Thermostat-controlled models maintain steady temperatures without overheating.
  • Pro tip: Smart thermostats save energy by preventing overheating and wasted power.

Commercial Heating

Portable
High heat output
Large area coverage
Industrial strength

For warehouses, offices and open-plan spaces, commercial heating provides consistent, high-output warmth to ensure a comfortable working environment in even the coldest conditions. These systems are designed for large-scale heating, delivering reliable performance in spaces where standard heaters fall short. With options ranging from radiant to multi-fuel heating, commercial systems offer tailored solutions for different industries and workspace needs.

Recommended room size:

X-Large (28m²)

Key features:

  • Delivers strong, consistent heat for large spaces like warehouses, offices, and retail areas
  • Available in radiant, multi fuel, and diesel models to suit different workspace needs
  • Designed for continuous use with optimised heat distribution
  • Built for long-term operation in demanding environments, ensuring consistent heating year-round
Commercial Heating
Air Circulators

Electric Blankets

Portable
Customizable settings
Targeted heat
Energy efficient

Electric blankets offer a cost-effective and energy-efficient way to stay warm during colder nights. They provide consistent, adjustable warmth exactly where you need it, making them perfect for keeping cosy without overheating your space. With various heat settings and automatic safety features, they’re a safe and convenient solution for a comfortable night’s sleep.

Recommended room size:

Personal (<3m²)

Key features:

  • Adjustable heat settings for personal comfort
  • Safe and energy-efficient
  • Provides even warmth across the bed
  • Bedding and blanket options
Shop Electric Blankets
Electric blankets

Dehumidifiers

Portable
Year-round functionality
Energy-saving
Moisture control

Damp air feels colder and makes heating less effective. A dehumidifier removes excess moisture, improving air quality and helping your home stay warm. By reducing dampness, they prevent mould growth and condensation, making them a great addition to cold or humid environments. Pairing a dehumidifier with a heater enhances warmth retention and creates a healthier indoor climate.

Recommended room size:

Small (<10m²)
Medium (10-18m²)
Large (18-28m²)

Key features:

  • Reduces dampness & prevents mould growth
  • Improves overall heating efficiency
  • Prevents condensation on windows
  • Energy-efficient and quiet operation
Shop Dehumidifiers
Dehumidifier
Info icon
Consider the climate and humidity - In cold environments, portable heaters and dehumidifiers are excellent choices. Dehumidifiers also help prevent mold, mildew and allergens, improving air quality and comfort.

Personal Heating

Portable
Targeted heat
Affordable
Compact

Personal heating solutions like hot water bottles and heat packs provide instant, targeted warmth exactly where you need it. They are perfect for soothing aches and pains, keeping warm in bed or providing extra comfort on chilly nights. These simple yet effective options are affordable, portable and reusable, making them an energy-efficient way to stay warm without heating an entire room.

Recommended room size:

Personal (<3m²)

Key features:

  • Instant, direct heat for quick warmth
  • Lightweight and portable for easy use anywhere
  • Energy-free options reduce heating costs
  • Reusable and long-lasting for sustainable warmth
Shop Personal Heating
White fluffy Hot Water bottle
Info icon
Think about portability -
  • Need to move your heater between rooms? Choose a lightweight, portable model.
  • Wall-mounted heaters save space, while freestanding heaters are easier to reposition.
  • Pro tip: For tight spaces, opt for slimline panel heaters or wall-mounted heat pumps.

Ready to shop?

Keeping your home warm is about more than just comfort, it’s about efficiency, reliability and choosing the right heating solution for your space. Whether you’re looking for a heat pump, electric heater or a wood fire, Mitre 10 has a full range of options to suit every home and budget. Browse our full range of heating options to find the perfect fit for your home or take a closer look at wood fires for an efficient and effective way to stay warm.

Shop by brand

Metrofires
Masport
Woodsman
Nouveau
Kent

FAQ's

The most energy-efficient heating options are heat pumps and wood fires. Heat pumps use minimal electricity to transfer heat, making them one of the cheapest heating solutions to run. Wood fires provide long-lasting warmth and can be a cost-effective option if you have access to affordable firewood.

The right heater depends on room size, insulation, and climate.

  • Small rooms (up to 10m²): Panel heaters, fan heaters or radiant heaters.
  • Medium rooms (10-18m²): Convection heaters, column heaters or heat pumps.
  • Large rooms (18-28m²): Heat pumps, gas heaters or wood fires.
  • Damp environments: Use a dehumidifier with a heat pump to remove moisture and improve heating efficiency.

Yes, heat pumps are more energy-efficient and provide consistent heating and cooling. While electric heaters offer instant warmth, they consume more power and are best for short-term or spot heating.

For low running costs, wood fires and heat pumps are the most cost-effective options. Electric fan heaters and radiant heaters have low upfront costs but are expensive to run long-term.

Yes! Damp air makes your home feel colder, which forces your heater to work harder. A dehumidifier removes excess moisture, making heating more effective and energy-efficient.

Yes, but they require proper ventilation. Flued gas heaters safely vent emissions outside, while unflued models should only be used in well-ventilated areas to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.

Oil column heaters and panel heaters are ideal for overnight use as they provide steady, silent warmth without drying out the air. Look for models with timers and safety shut-offs.

Yes, consider low-energy heating solutions like heat pumps, wood fires and well-insulated homes. Using a dehumidifier can also help by improving your home’s ability to retain heat.

Renters should choose portable, plug-in options such as fan heaters, panel heaters or oil column heaters. Electric blankets and heat packs are also great low-cost heating options.

  • Clean filters regularly (for heat pumps and gas heaters).
  • Ensure proper ventilation for gas heaters and wood fires.
  • Use a programmable timer to avoid unnecessary heating.
  • Combine heating with insulation for maximum efficiency.

For open-plan spaces, heat pumps, gas heaters and wood fires provide the best whole-room heating. Smaller heaters may struggle to distribute warmth evenly in larger spaces.

The capacity refers to the maximum amount of moisture the unit can extract from the air over a 24-hour period under ideal conditions. For example, a “12L” dehumidifier can remove up to 12 litres of moisture per day.

The built-in water tanks are designed to be compact for portability and ease of use. While the dehumidifier might extract several litres per day, the tank typically holds less (e.g., 500ml to 2L), so it will need to be emptied periodically during operation.

This depends on humidity levels and how often the unit is running. In damp environments, the tank might fill every few hours.