Campfire on a hunt – how to build a safe hunting campfire in NZ

After a long day in the hills, nothing pulls a hunting camp together like a proper campfire.

It’s warmth when the temperature drops.
It’s light when the bush goes dark early.
It’s where boots dry, meals heat up, and stories get told.

A campfire on a hunt isn’t just comfort - it’s part of the mission.

But in New Zealand conditions, it needs to be done properly.

Choosing the right spot for a hunting campfire

In the backcountry, responsibility comes first.

Before striking a flame:

Check for fire bans

Keep an eye on wind conditions

Use a designated fire pit if available.

Clear a 2–3 metre radius down to bare soil.

Keep well away from tents, dry grass, and overhanging branches.

NZ bush can dry out quickly, even if it doesn’t look like it. A careless fire can undo everything we value about being out there.

A good hunter leaves no trace - especially when it comes to fire.

Building a proper campfire in hunting country

A campfire isn’t about throwing logs in a pile and hoping for the best.

It’s about control.

Gather your materials properly

You’ll need:

Dry tinder (small twigs, bark, fine sticks)

Kindling (finger-sized sticks)

Fuel wood (larger pieces or split logs)

Start small. Build gradually.

The teepee method works best

For hunting camps, the teepee method is reliable and efficient.

Place tinder in the centre.

Arrange kindling in a cone shape around it.

Leave a small opening to light it.

Add larger sticks once it’s established.

Never use petrol or flammable liquids. A controlled burn is always the goal.

Once it’s going, build slowly. Let the fire work for you.

What to wear around a hunting campfire

Campfire heat feels good - until your gear can’t handle it.

Cheap synthetics can melt. Heavy cotton holds moisture. Poor-quality fabric picks up smoke and never lets it go.

Good hunting layers transition from active movement to camp recovery without needing to change. That's where the performance of Nuyarn Technology really shines. Shape

Campfire cooking on a hunt

A small, controlled fire gives you:

Heat for a billy

A way to cook basic meals

A morale boost after a tough day

Keep it practical.

Build it just big enough.
Feed it slowly.
Don’t let it sprawl.

Hunting camps aren’t about bonfires - they’re about efficiency.

Extinguishing your campfire properly

This is non-negotiable.

When you’re done:

Pour water over the entire fire.

Stir the ashes.

Add more water.

Repeat until it’s cold to the touch.

Cover with dirt if necessary.

If it’s warm, it’s not out.

A hunting campfire should leave nothing behind but cold ash.

The campfire mindset

A good campfire reflects good preparation.

Controlled.

Efficient.

Respectful.

Practical.

The same way we build our gear.

At Main Divide, we design clothing for the full hunt - not just the stalk.

From steep climbs to cold nights around the fire, your layers should perform without compromise.

Because in NZ’s backcountry, the mission doesn’t end when the sun drops.

It just shifts to camp.

Campfire on a hunt - more than just a fire