Buying Guides
Gas BBQ Buying Guide

Gas BBQ Buyer's Guide for Beginners

Whip up the ultimate feast for friends and family, whether for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, in the backyard or at the bach. The barbecue grill is a must-have Kiwi backyard staple.

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What is a gas barbecue?

Gas barbecue grills operate on propane or natural gas and are available in cart, tabletop, or cabinet styles. They come in small, medium, and large sizes. They are a popular choice for beginners because they light quickly and heat up rapidly.

There are hybrid or combo BBQs that can use both gas and charcoal, along with models that utilise gas, charcoal, and wood pellets. Experienced grillers can experiment with heat zones on a gas BBQ to create rich, smoky flavours that rival charcoal cooking.

Grill smarter, not harder

Why choose a gas grill? The quick and simple answer is that they are the most convenient way to cook, suitable for all levels of cooks.

User-friendly

Simply turn the knob or push a button to fire up the BBQ. A gas barbecue typically heats up within 10-15 minutes and sears/cooks the meat quickly.

Excellent temperature control

Never worry about partially cooked steaks with a natural gas barbeque connection - it directly comes from your home supply. No more cylinders and charcoal!

Versatile

Create zones for direct and indirect cooking, and to some extent, slow cook your food. For the more experienced or experimental grillers, there are also ways you can use wood chunks or pellets with a gas grill.

More fire safe

Gas BBQs are a safer option, no flying embers or ash to worry about. That's why Body Corporates in apartment blocks often favour gas BBQs. You can switch it off instantly with the dial; it cools down quickly, so ther's less risk and more peace of mind.

Easy to clean

No more soot or needing to scoop out ash and charcoal. Easily clean and maintain the grates, grease tray, and outer surface.

Fuel types for your gas BBQ

Do you have a gas pipeline connection in your area?
If your heart's set on a gas BBQ and your answer is yes, it makes sense to opt for a natural gas BBQ. You'll have a steady supply of gas to cook with (depending on your pipeline), and you won't need to worry about refilling canisters.

Liquid propane (LP)

Barbecues with gas canisters or tanks, use liquid propane, and they are quite popular. The cylinders can be stored beside the unit or sit inside the cabinet. Ideal for those who prefer a grill that can be easily moved.

Natural gas (NG)

These grills draw gas continuously from residential gas lines, burn cleaner, and are more affordable than propane. You'll never run out of gas during a cookout or worry about replacing empty tanks.

You will need a gas line connection in your area. This set-up is ideal for outdoor BBQ kitchens.

Gas and charcoal combination BBQs

Can't choose between gas and charcoal? Combo grills are worth a look! Enjoy the convenience of gas cooking and the distinctive flavours a charcoal barbeque can achieve.

Hybrid BBQs are ideal for those who want the best of both worlds but don't have the space for separate units.

Gas BBQ styles

Freestanding BBQs

Love flexibility? Freestanding BBQs are perfect for you. Simply wheel it out and start grilling. They're great if you want a portable grill that's larger than a typical portable BBQ, which can be moved around the patio, stored away, or taken on holiday.

Many come with a cupboard or space for tanks. Perfect for renters, small to medium balconies, and patios. You'll also enjoy ample cooking space. Relish delicious BBQS, quick setup, and easy outdoor cooking.

Built-in BBQs (built into outdoor kitchen)

Add the wow factor to your outdoor living space with a built-in BBQ! Built-in BBQs create the perfect spot for entertaining, and seamlessly integrate into a custom, stylish outdoor kitchen.

If you love hosting large gatherings, there's plenty of room for cooking and prep. Plus, you can add extras like sinks, beverage centres, and mini fridges to complete your setup.

Keep the conversation flowing and the food sizzling! Not to mention, the mess (and delicious aromas) can be kept outside, where the party's at.

Shop outdoor BBQ kitchens

Portable gas barbecues

Ready for adventure? Forget the canned baked beans - portable gas BBQs make it easy to serve up tasty, hot meals.

Compact and lightweight, they're handy for camping trips, beach days, or park picnics. Set up in minutes and pack down just as quickly.

Spend less time on setup and more time enjoying delicious barbecues with your family in the great outdoors, with no fuss and no heavy lifting.

What size grill do you need?

There's nothing more frustrating than having a barbecue grill that is too small for regular use. So, consider that when choosing one and think about how you'll plan to use it.

Tip: Check the number of burners; the more burners there are, the larger the cooking surface, which makes a big difference when hosting more people. Pick a size that suits your typical gatherings and outdoor space, and you'll be ready for many enjoyable get-togethers.

2-burner

For a family of two or three, a 2-burner gas grill should suffice for regular use. With two burners, you can cook with direct and indirect heat to get juicy, flavourful meats.

Featured: Gasmate Quasar burners

3-4 burner

3-to-4-burner grills are ideal for entertaining and occasional gatherings. Cook multiple dishes at the same time! Suitable for most households and an excellent choice for families of four to six.

Featured: Crossray 4-burner full BBQ kitchen

6-burner

If you frequently host large gatherings, consider investing in a 6-burner grill with the largest cooking surface, ideal for avid entertainers and large families.

Featured: Gasmate Quasar 6-burner freestanding BBQ

Other BBQ features to check out

Built-in thermometer. This feature helps you control and monitor the internal temperature thanks to the thermometer gauge included on the hood or lid. Great for adjusting or achieving the right temperature.

Rotisserie. Many barbecue models feature a rear burner for roasting on spits and quick searing to lock in flavour. Some have a groove or bracket for rotisserie accessories, letting you enjoy juicy roasts in your backyard.

Warming racks are the indirect cooking zone that can keep your food hot or enhance flavour by applying marinades during slow cooking. There are fixed and removable options. Keep your food warm until you're ready to serve.

Grates. Invest in porcelain-enamel cast iron cooking grates for longevity, durability, and easy maintenance. The most common types are stainless steel, cast iron, or porcelain coated.

Cabinets. Almost all models, except for benchtop options, have a closed cabinet or storage space to store your propane tank. Bigger models may have a shelf or space to store your tools, extra tanks, and other essentials.

Side burners are versatile for cooking smaller dishes or sauces on the side, while your meat is cooking on the main surface.

Side shelves or counter space. Some medium-large-sized barbeques come with a side shelf or counter spaces on both ends to rest your tools and keep ingredients within arm's reach.

Drip tray. Most barbecues come with a drip tray or grease pan. If you're after easy cleaning, look for slide-out drip trays.

Crank up the heat on your backyard barbies

Brands we carry include Everdure, Kamado Joe's, Gasmate, Oklahoma Joe's, Masport, and more.

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Gas BBQ Buyer's Guide for Beginners

What is a gas barbecue?