Rotorua residents are being urged to buy early for winter wood fires to give the fuel time to season.
The challenge is being issued by the Bay of Plenty Regional Council as part of a long-term programme to improve Rotorua's air quality.
Burning dry, seasoned wood means warmer homes and less air pollution.

The council's group manager strategic development Fiona McTavish says about half of Rotorua's residents plan their wood buying in advance.

'But we want even more people to plan ahead for winter – so that everyone can benefit,” says Fiona.

'By planning ahead you can make sure the wood you burn in winter to heat your home is dry and ready to burn.
'Whether you source your own wood, or buy it, it's important you get good firewood early, stack it properly and let it dry.

'Burning dry wood means homes are warmer and our air is cleaner.”
Wood takes at least six months to season or dry properly, says Fiona.

Burning wet or green wood, and inefficient home fires can cause adverse health effects though the added air pollution.
The most vulnerable are the elderly, the very young, and those who already have respiratory problems, such as asthma.