Labour Weekend Braai Checklist: Get Ready for Outdoor Cooking Season

Labour Weekend Braai Checklist: Get Ready for Outdoor Cooking Season

Labour Weekend is one of the first big opportunities of the warmer season to get friends and family around the braai. A little preparation makes the day easier — especially making sure you have enough good charcoal before everyone arrives.

1. Check your charcoal before the weekend

Don’t wait until the fire needs lighting to discover there is half a bag left. The amount you need depends on what you are cooking, how long you plan to cook and the size of your braai or kettle. If you are unsure, use our practical guide to how much charcoal you need for a braai.

2. Choose the right fuel for the cook

Hardwood lump charcoal is a great choice when you want fast ignition, strong heat and responsive temperature control. If you want to understand the differences before choosing, read our lump charcoal vs briquettes guide.

3. Plan the menu before lighting the fire

Steak, boerewors, chops and quick-grilling foods need a different fire from chicken or longer cooks. Work out what is going on the grid first so you can build the fire around the food instead of trying to fix the heat halfway through.

4. Give yourself enough lighting time

Start the fire early enough for the charcoal to establish properly before cooking. Good preparation means less rushing, more consistent heat and more time around the braai instead of working around it.

5. Have the basics ready

  • Safari hardwood lump charcoal
  • A suitable braai, kettle or charcoal grill
  • Safe fire-lighting equipment
  • Tongs and heat-resistant tools
  • Your food, seasoning and sides prepared before cooking
  • A safe place for hot coals and ash after the cook

6. Find Safari before the rush

Safari Charcoal is available through a growing network of New Zealand retailers. Check our Where to Buy Safari Charcoal page before Labour Weekend and support a local Safari stockist.

Make Labour Weekend the start of braai season

The first long weekends of the warmer months are a good reminder to get the braai ready, refresh your charcoal supply and enjoy cooking outdoors again. If you want more practical advice, our complete lump charcoal guide covers lighting, heat control and cooking with hardwood lump charcoal.

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