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NZHHA accreditation isn’t just a badge — it’s the mark of a technician or business who’s trained, tested, and trusted to deliver safe, compliant solid fuel heating systems.
From councils to homeowners, decision-makers across New Zealand rely on NZHHA-accredited businesses to get the job done right. If your work involves installing, servicing, or supplying fireplaces — this is the certification pathway that matters.
When a technician is accredited through NZHHA, it means they’ve completed formal training, passed technical assessments, and committed to ongoing standards.
Accreditation is more than one-time learning. It’s:
Only technicians working for NZHHA member businesses can earn and maintain accreditation. That’s how we protect the quality of our profession — and the trust of those we serve.
Every accredited technician begins by completing the Introduction to Solid Fuel Heating course — a one-day foundation course covering appliance safety, compliance principles, and wood burner basics.
After this course, technicians can progress to one of two nationally recognised credentials:
Technicians who have completed the Introduction to Solid Fuel Heating course and are actively working in the industry — but have not yet completed full certification — are considered trainee-level.
These staff may assist on-site but are not permitted to sign off installations or inspections. They must be employed by an NZHHA member business and working toward SFAIT or SFAST certification.
Required for anyone who installs wood burners or flue systems. Certified SFAITs are trained to meet AS/NZS 2918:2001 and NZ Building Code requirements.
SFAITs are recognised by councils and insurers as qualified installers.
Accredited for professionals who clean, inspect, and maintain wood burners and flue systems.
To maintain certification, SFAIT and SFAST technicians must complete a refresher every two years.
