The Ultimate BBQ Buying Guide: Find Your Perfect Grill for NZ Outdoor Living

Fire Up the Good Times: Your Complete BBQ Guide

Whether you're a weekend warrior on the deck, a boatie heading out on the water, or someone who takes outdoor entertaining seriously, choosing the right BBQ is one of the most rewarding decisions you'll make for your home. At LX2001, we stock a carefully curated range of BBQs — from compact portables to full outdoor kitchen setups — to suit every lifestyle and budget.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know to find your perfect match.

1. Know Your BBQ Types

Before diving into specific models, it helps to understand the main categories available:

• Gas BBQs — Fast to heat, easy to control, and ideal for everyday grilling. Most run off a standard LPG bottle.
• Electric BBQs — No gas required. Perfect for apartments, balconies, or anywhere open flames aren't permitted. Modern infrared electric BBQs now rival gas in performance.
• Portable BBQs — Compact, lightweight, and built for adventure — camping, boating, bach life, and beyond.
• Outdoor Kitchen Systems — The premium choice for serious entertainers. Integrated cabinetry, benchtops, and storage built around a high-performance BBQ.

2. The Best Electric BBQ: CROSSRAY eXtreme Electric Portable BBQ

If you've been sceptical about electric BBQs, the CROSSRAY eXtreme Electric BBQ will change your mind. This is not your average plug-in grill — it uses dual 1100W carbon-fibre infrared elements to deliver 300°C+ cooking performance, matching or exceeding most standard gas BBQs on the market.

Why it stands out:

• 2200W total output with instant high-performance heat — no waiting around
• Digital programmable display with temperature readout and element modulation
• Meat probe included — set your target temperature and cook with precision
• New high hood design accommodates large roasts, with a warming rack included
• Optional rotisserie kit — a function exclusive to this model
• Fully portable — tabletop as standard, also available as a trolley or outdoor kitchen version
• Runs off a standard 10A GPO (240V) — no gas bottle, no fuss

Cooking area: 2,772 cm² | Weight: 22.8 kg | Dimensions: 613 x 435 x 457mm

Ideal for: Apartment dwellers, those in no-flame zones, eco-conscious grillers, and anyone who wants precision cooking without gas.

3. The Outdoor Kitchen: CROSSRAY Compact 4 Burner Gas Outdoor Mini BBQ Kitchen

For those who want to take outdoor entertaining to the next level, the CROSSRAY Compact 4 Burner Gas Outdoor Kitchen is a game-changer. Built around the award-winning CROSSRAY in-built infrared gas BBQ (model TCS4FL), this compact kitchen delivers the full outdoor cooking experience without requiring a large outdoor space.

Key features:

• 4 CROSSRAY infrared burners — 52MJ/hr total output for serious cooking power
• Sintered stone benchtop (60mm edge, quartz effect) — UV, moisture, heat, scratch, and stain resistant. Maintenance free.
• Corrosion-resistant zinc-coated powder-coated steel cabinets — suitable for coastal and exposed environments
• Generous cooking area: 5,382 cm²
• Flat-pack design for easy DIY assembly
• Available with or without an integrated fridge

Dimensions: 2151mm (W) x 600mm (D) x 900mm (H)

Ideal for: Homeowners with a dedicated outdoor entertaining area who want a permanent, premium cooking setup.

4. The Portable Performer: Dometic Cadac Carri Chef 50

The Dometic Cadac Carri Chef 50 is a luxury all-in-one portable gas BBQ that punches well above its weight. With a powerful stainless-steel burner, automatic piezo ignition, and a built-in dome thermometer, it's designed for those who refuse to compromise on quality when cooking away from home.

Highlights:

• 50cm cooking area — generous for a portable unit
• Dome lid converts the BBQ into an oven — perfect for baking or slow cooking
• PFOA-free ceramic coating on the Green Grill BBQ Grid for healthier cooking
• Integrated heat diffuser for even heat distribution across the entire surface
• Lightweight anodised aluminium legs — easy to set up and pack down
• Includes pot stand, BBQ grid, dome, condiment tray, and carry bag
• 2-year warranty

Total heat output: 3.7kW | Weight: 10.5kg | Cooking area: 46cm diameter

Ideal for: Campers, bach owners, and outdoor enthusiasts who want a versatile, high-quality portable BBQ.

5. The Compact Tabletop: Dometic Cadac 2 Cook 3 Pro Deluxe

The Dometic Cadac 2 Cook 3 Pro Deluxe is the ultimate tabletop companion for those who love to cook multiple dishes simultaneously. Stylish, lightweight, and incredibly versatile, it's a favourite for camping trips, picnics, and small outdoor spaces.

What's included:

• Two independent burners — cook two dishes at once
• 2 pot stands, 1 coffee stand, and 2 ceramic-coated plates (flat and ribbed)
• Reliable piezo ignition on both burners
• Windshields on both sides to protect the flame
• Gas button protection — ideal for families with young children
• Non-slip rubber feet for stability
• Easy-clean top panel and plates

Dimensions: 350 x 190 x 620mm | Weight: 7kg

Ideal for: Couples, small families, campers, and anyone who needs a compact but capable outdoor cooker.

6. The Kiwi Classic: Kiwi Sizzler Marine Grade Gas BBQ

A New Zealand icon, the Kiwi Sizzler Marine Grade Gas BBQ has earned its reputation as a superb portable BBQ at an unbeatable price. Built from marine-grade 316 stainless steel, it's engineered to handle the harsh NZ coastal environment — whether you're on a boat, at the bach, or on the deck.

Why Kiwis love it:

• Marine grade 316 stainless steel — corrosion-resistant and built to last
• Cast iron cooking surface with both flat and grate sections
• Window lid — monitor your cook without losing heat
• Can be used as a BBQ or smoker
• Piezo ignition, removable drip tray, hose and regulator included
• Runs off a standard LPG gas bottle
• AGA certified
• Replacement parts and accessories readily available

Cooking surface: 45 x 27cm | Total dimensions: 64 x 39.5 x 33.5cm

Ideal for: Boaties, fishos, bach owners, and anyone who wants a tough, reliable NZ-made-for-NZ-conditions BBQ.

7. How to Choose the Right BBQ for You

Still not sure which BBQ is right for you? Use this quick guide:

8. BBQ Maintenance Tips to Make It Last

A quality BBQ is an investment — here's how to protect it:

• Clean after every use — remove grease and food residue while the grill is still warm
• Use a BBQ cover when not in use, especially in coastal areas
• Check gas connections regularly for leaks or wear
• Season cast iron plates with a light coat of oil to prevent rust
• Replace worn parts promptly — we stock a full range of Kiwi Sizzler spare parts including burners, control units, regulators, and more

Shop the Full BBQ Range at LX2001

From portable gas grills to full outdoor kitchen systems, we've got the BBQ to match your lifestyle. All products come with manufacturer warranties, and our team is here to help you find the right fit.

Browse the full BBQ range at LX2001 →