Choosing NZ braai wood: A South African’s guide

Whether you’re new to the world of braai, or searching for Kiwi substitutes for South African woods, here’s a quick guide to New Zealand braai woods.

Wood, BBQ WoodHendrik de Wilde28 July 2020Braai, South Africa

What makes good braai wood?

It can be a struggle to find good wood in New Zealand, especially if you’re used to the rich pickings of South Africa. When I first moved here, I had a very difficult job finding wood with a moisture content below 25%. Then I found Urban Lumberjack. Wow.

Wood, BBQ WoodHendrik de Wilde20 July 2020Braai, South Africa

Braai: The unofficial religion of South Africa

For South Africans, nothing beats a braai. For non-South Africans, a “braai” is to grill (meat) over an open fire (wood, charcoal, briquettes), and there’s always plenty of food to share.