In the world of electric fencing, durability, performance, and sustainability are everything. Enter Durashield™ from Strainrite.
Durashield isn’t just another plastic shell. It’s the result of thoughtful – Strainrite – engineering, deep materials science, and real-world testing. Whether you’re upgrading an existing line or specifying your next build, Durashield is designed to make the job easier, the fence stronger, and the environmental impact smaller.
Redefining durability
Pre-fitted to Strainrite’s trusted Cliplock and XT1 strainers, Durashield delivers rugged performance – especially in wet conditions, where lesser insulators often fail. It significantly outperforms both our previous models and leading competitors in high-voltage testing, thanks to its unique interlocking join design and a body shape inspired by high-voltage transmission insulators.
The result? Less arcing, less breakdown, and longer service life – even under sustained exposure to harsh sun, rain, and dirt.
Retrofit ready
You don’t need to start from scratch to upgrade. Durashield can be retrofitted to existing Cliplock wire strainers, avoiding the cost and hassle of full replacement. And if a shell is damaged, just replace the shell – not the entire strainer. It’s a smarter, more sustainable way to manage wear and tear in the field.
Material matters
Not all plastics are created equal. While some insulators still rely on basic polymers, Durashield is made from UV-stable ASA (Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate) – a premium-grade material commonly used in exterior car parts, playgrounds, and window frames.
ASA is prized for its exceptional resistance to UV, moisture, impact, and temperature fluctuations, making it ideal for long-term outdoor use. And there’s more – 60% of the ASA in Durashield comes from post-consumer recycled material, supporting a more circular economy without compromising strength or reliability.
Debunking the “Join” myth
Some have raised concerns that the “join” in Durashield’s two-part shell might collect dirt and allow current to track. But real-world testing paints a different picture.
In extreme simulations of wet, dirty farm conditions, Durashield showed no failure through the front join – even at 12kV–15kV. That’s because the interlocking tabs in the front join create a long, non-linear tracking path, not an open gap. In short: no shortcuts for electricity.
Durashield consistently outperformed all plastic-bodied insulated strainers tested, including leading competitors.
The verdict
Durashield is more than just an insulator – it’s a smarter, stronger, and more sustainable way to build and maintain electric fencing. With its next-level wet weather performance, replaceable shells, and ASA-engineered durability, Durashield is made to last.
Durashield™. Built for the fence. Engineered for the future. Proudly made in New Zealand.
A fencing contractor’s choice of prime mover is largely driven by capability, safety and fast, comfortable progress on the road between jobs.
The Deutz Fahr tractors offer a compelling package that calls on the history of the family-owned SDF Group, which, having been formed in the early part of the twentieth century, went on to become an early adopter of the diesel engine, offered the world’s first four-wheel drive in 1952 and today is a big hitter in global tractor sales.
Already well known in the sector, the Agrofarm Series offers a low centre of gravity, a mechanical four-wheel drive, true four-wheel braking and 100% locking diffs on both axles. These features offer the benefits of surefootedness, safety and the ability to overcome difficult terrains.
The Agrofarm 5105C and 5125C offer 106 and 125hp respectively, using the latest generation Farmotion, 4-cylinder, four-litre engines, with high torque reserves and unrivalled low fuel consumption, offering quiet operation and long working days.
A wet-clutch, powershuttle/powershift transmission allows precise matching of speed to conditions, with the 5125 model also offering a standard creep set for precise movement in tough conditions. Both models also feature the patented Stop-Go function, allowing the tractor to be brought to a stop just by pressing the brake pedal, then releasing it to move away again.
Oversized tyre equipment, complemented by adjustable wheels, allows a wider track width setting, to deliver stability on slopes, alongside improved balance for heavy, side-mounted post hitters. At the rear of the machine, the hydraulic system offers maximum lift capacities of up to 5,410 kg, three rear remote valves with flow regulation and an external lift control for added convenience.
Travelling between jobs is made easy and comfortable, with a 40kph road speed, a cabin mounted on silent-bloc suspension, complemented by air conditioning, an air-suspended seat, rubber floor mats and a high output lighting system for travel and work.
For those looking to handle heavier post-driver units, particularly those with rotational bases, the 6125C-RV Shift tractor offers power up to a max of 136hp, mated to a full 20+16 full powershift transmission, with working and transport modes, alongside automated powershifts. As always, safety is integral, with 4WD, 100% locking front and rear diffs and independent, integral four-wheel disc brakes and an electro-hydraulic park brake.
At the business end of the tractor, lift capacity is 7,000 kg, complemented by a load-sensing hydraulic pump, delivering up to 120L/min on demand, via three mechanically controlled external remotes. When travelling above 25 kph, the rear linkage locks out for safety, while at the same time, engaging a soft-ride function for smoother travelling.
Both Series are available with the German-built, Stoll FZ 39-27, self-levelling loaders, delivering a 3.8m lift height and 1,800 kg lift capacity, offering the ability to easily handle large post bundles. This is complemented by boom suspension for smooth travel on the road and when traversing difficult terrain, with a Euro hitch coupling for quick implement changes.
Fencing in New Zealand demands gear that works with the land, not against it. Tight deadlines, tough terrain, and high customer expectations call for equipment that installs quickly, holds strong, and lasts the distance.
Tested in real-world environments, Gallagher products are built to help contractors work faster without compromising on strength or finish.
Voltage performance starts and ends with solid electrical connections. Gallagher’s heavy-duty joint clamp is built for dependable conductivity across multiple joins, maintaining consistent voltage along the fence line. “Poor connections can be incredibly hard to track down and fix, costing contractors time and potentially damaging their reputation,” Troy explains. “Our clamps are engineered to bite down and stay tight, so power stays where it’s needed.”
Gallagher’s end-of-line systems, such as the high strain insulator kit and insulated wire strainer kit, come pre-assembled with integrated insulators and wire rope, and a built-in heavy-duty joint clamp. This integration removes the need for hand-tying and separate clamps, improves finish consistency, and ensures uniform tension every time. “On a long run, the ability to clip, strain, and move on without extra tools can save hours on a project – and those efficiencies really stack up over a season,” says Troy Batters, Gallagher’s Fencing Product Manager.
G618 Insulated End Strainer Kit
In country that’s steep, wet, or coastal, Gallagher’s Insulated Line Posts make fencing possible where traditional methods may fall short. No separate insulators, and no need for heavy equipment – just drive them in and clip off. Their lightweight build makes them easy to carry over rough terrain, while the flexible fibreglass core maintains line integrity on uneven ground. Fully insulated and UV-stabilised, they stand up to tough weather and coastal conditions without rust or corrosion. Snap-on insulators mean no nails and no protruding parts, improving safety for both stock and handlers – a key reason they’re increasingly used for equine fencing. “Once you’ve worked with them, you quickly see how much time they save and how versatile they are,” says Troy, “They open up fencing options in places you might have thought were too difficult or expensive to tackle.”
For electric systems, earthing remains the foundation. Multiple rods, correctly spaced and driven deep, deliver the best results. In dry or sandy soils, pairing this with an earth return wire system ensures animals complete the circuit wherever they touch. Many performance issues can be traced back to poor earthing – getting it right from the start avoids troubleshooting later and keeps fences working at full strength.
At Gallagher, the measure of success is simple: fences that go in faster, perform better, and stand the test of time. It’s about delivering the kind of reliability contractors can build their reputation on – season after season.
In early 2025, PermaPine achieved FSC® (Forest Stewardship Council®) certification – a milestone that speaks volumes about our commitment to sustainable timber sourcing.
For fencing contractors across Aotearoa, this is more than just a badge on the paperwork. It’s a signal that you can trust the wood in your hands from source to site.
The Forest Stewardship Council® is an international nongovernmental organization that promotes environmentally appropriate, socially beneficial, and economically viable management of the world’s forests.
Why FSC matters to the fencing sector
FSC certification is not handed out lightly. It requires rigorous checks across the entire supply chain, ensuring that every log harvested meets strict environmental, social, and economic standards. For contractors, it’s peace of mind that your posts and poles are sourced responsibly, supporting long-term forest health, legal harvesting practices, and community wellbeing.
We’re also seeing FSC requirements come up more often in tenders from local and central government, particularly councils, the Department of Conservation, and other agencies where environmental responsibility is front and centre. Having FSC certification puts our contractors in a stronger position to meet these evolving expectations.
There is also a growing concern that forests in New Zealand are being harvested faster than they are being replanted. FSC certification directly addresses this by requiring that forests are managed sustainably, ensuring long-term balance and continuity of supply.
At a time when customers are paying more attention to how and where materials are sourced, FSC gives you a clear edge. It is a quality marker that holds weight across rural, infrastructure, and lifestyle markets.
PermaPine’s commitment to contractors
Let’s be straight. We didn’t pursue FSC accreditation because we had to; we did it because we back better practice, and we know contractors do too. We’ve long invested in producing consistently high performing roundwood, guided by NZ standards like NZS 3605 and NZS 3640. FSC is another step in hat same direction.
For those on the tools, this means the products you spec or pick up from your local merchant come with full chain of custody transparency. From pine plantation to posthole, it’s the same quality timber, just with stronger assurance.
Sustainability without compromise
PermaPine’s FSC certified range includes all of our posts and poles, treated to specification and supplied through a national distribution network. We’ve always prided ourselves on the details: top-quality product, consistent treatment, reliable availability. FSC doesn’t change that, it reinforces it.
By offering certified products, we’re helping ensure that sustainable options are available and accessible, whether you’re fencing a lifestyle block, a council reserve, or a 1,000 hectare station.
What’s in it for FCANZ members?
Confidence in supply that meets best practice forestry and environmental benchmarks
Added value in tenders or contracts that call for sustainability credentials
A trusted long-term partner who understands the demands of fencing in New Zealand
Let’s talk
If you’re keen to specify FSC certified product on your next project, or just want to know more about what it means in practice, get in touch with the PermaPine team. We’re proud to be raising the bar in the New Zealand fencing sector, and even prouder to support the contractors doing the work on the ground.
Wherever you go, the STIHL KOA 20 Battery Air Compressor is your ultimate portable inflation companion. Whether you’re at home, on the road, or venturing off the beaten track, this compact yet powerful tool offers quick, effortless inflation and deflation wherever you need it.
Designed for convenience, reliability, and performance, the KOA 20 takes the hassle out of pumping up tyres, inflatables, and recreational gear, saving you time and effort.
With a maximum pressure of 150 psi, the KOA 20 is powerful enough for a wide range of tasks – from inflating car and bike tyres to topping up truck and trailer tyres. It’s also ideal for sporting enthusiasts, perfect for inflating basketballs, footballs, or netballs on the fly. If you enjoy outdoor adventures, you’ll love its ability to quickly inflate paddleboards, kayaks, and inflatable boats, making it an essential piece of gear for beach days, camping trips, or weekends away.
The KOA 20 truly shines in remote and rural settings. For those navigating rough terrain, such as accessing a hard-to-reach fence line or track, tyre deflation is often necessary to improve traction. With the KOA 20 in your vehicle, you can easily deflate and then reinflate your tyres once you’re back on the road. It’s the perfect tool for farmers, tradies, 4WD enthusiasts, and adventurers alike.
Portability meets practicality with the KOA 20’s compact design. It fits easily in the boot of your car, or even a backpack, making it an ideal companion for both planned trips and unexpected situations. Whether you’re inflating an air mattress at the campsite, a pool float at the beach, or simply keeping your car tyres at optimal pressure, the KOA 20 is always ready.
Its user-friendly interface features a top-facing digital display, allowing you to toggle between high-pressure and high-volume modes with ease. You can set your desired PSI, monitor battery life, and view real-time pressure feedback – all at the touch of a button. Once the target pressure is reached, the compressor automatically stops, ensuring consistent results and preventing over-inflation.
Additional features include a built-in LED light for use in low-light conditions, allowing you to work confidently at dusk, dawn, or even in emergencies. The automatic shut-off function activates after five minutes of inactivity, preserving battery life and maximising time between charges.
The KOA 20 comes equipped with multiple valve adapters and both high-pressure and high-volume hoses, all neatly stored on the unit itself for fast, easy access. This makes switching between different inflatables and tyres a breeze.
With a run time of up to 20 minutes using the STIHL AS 2 battery, you’ll have plenty of power to get the job done. Even better, the KOA 20 is part of the STIHL AS Battery Range – meaning the same battery and charger can be used across multiple STIHL tools for even more convenience and value.
As a tradie in New Zealand, chances are most of your business comes from word of mouth. A mate recommends you, a neighbour remembers your sign at the gate, or someone calls because they saw you out on the job. It’s simple and it works – but what if you could take that word of mouth and give it unlimited reach?
That’s where digital marketing comes in, and I’m not talking about expensive, fancy campaigns. I’m talking about simple strategic marketing that works for real businesses like yours, without draining your time or budget.
First things first: why consistent branding matters
Branding might sound corporate, but it’s just how people’s brains work to recognise you. If your logo, colours, and style match across your signs, shirts, Facebook, and website, you start to stick in people’s minds.
Think of branding like a good fence line: when everything’s straight, strong, and tidy, people trust it. When it’s all over the place, they don’t.
Even if you’re a new business, invest in a clear logo and simple design that you can use everywhere. If you look professional, people assume your work is too. Think about colours and the font you choose, as they all convey ideas about your business.
I’ve worked with dozens of rural and trade-based businesses, and I’ve seen one thing time and time again: when you look professional, and you show up consistently online and offline, you build trust – it’s trust that gets you the job!
There is a reason that big businesses spend millions on branding.
Why an online presence matters
You might think, “I’ve got enough work, I don’t need marketing.” That might be true now, but what about next season? Or when you want to grow?
Your online presence means people can find you 24/7. It builds trust before they even meet you. Even in rural New Zealand, people Google before they call. Think of your Google Business listing, website, and Facebook page as a digital handshake. If they look good, people feel confident hiring you.
Your Google Business profile
If you’re not on Google Business, you’re missing a huge opportunity. It’s free and helps you show up when people Google “fencers near me.”
How to set it up:
Add your business name, phone, service area, and photos.
Include a short description of your services.
Ask happy customers to leave reviews.
Upload photos of real work – Google loves fresh content.
This also puts you on Google Maps, making it easier for locals to find and trust you.
Building your website
A website is your digital shop front. It’s where people go to check you out before calling you.
You don’t need a flashy site, just one that works, is SEO and mobile optimised, and is user-friendly.
A good website should:
Be mobile-friendly (most people browse on their phones).
Load fast (3–5 seconds max).
Be clear: What you do, where you work, how to contact you.
Show your real work: photos, testimonials, services.
Have consistent branding.
Be easy for customers to navigate.
Even a one-page site can work if it’s professional and easy to navigate.
What’s the buzz about social media?
Social media is different from print media because it’s ongoing and shareable. One good post can reach far beyond your town for free. You don’t need a huge following – just consistency. Post your latest job, a before-and-after shot, or a tip about fencing care, and suddenly you’re the name people remember.
Social also gives feedback. On Facebook, you can see who’s clicking, liking, or messaging you. With print, you never really know who’s reading it, making it difficult to monitor success and adapt future marketing efforts.
How to optimise your Facebook business page
If you only do one thing after reading this article, let it be setting up your Facebook business page properly. It’s free, easy, and it’s where most of your potential clients will look first.
Here’s what to check:
Profile Photo & Cover Image: Use your logo as your profile picture and a strong, clear image of your work or your team for the cover.
About/Bio Section: Tell people who you are, what you do, and where you work. Example: “Quality rural fencing across Nelson and Tasman. Over 20 years’ experience.”
Contact Info: Add your phone number, email, website, and hours.
Post x3 times a week: Share before/after shots, happy customers (with permission), tips, team photos, or seasonal reminders like “Spring is the perfect time to check your boundary fences.”
Quick social media tips
Social media doesn’t have to be hard. Here’s what works:
Post real work: before-and-after fence shots beat stock photos.
Use your phone: natural light is your best friend.
Tag your location: helps locals find you.
Show your team: people trust people.
Use local hashtags like #nzfencing or #ruralservicesnz.
Don’t overthink it. Done is better than perfect.
Think of social like word of mouth – just online. When you share your work, people share it too.
After an amazing few days in Taupo attending the FCANZ Conference as your patron, the point was not lost on me that the FCANZ people are a great tribe to belong to.
When we talk about “your tribe”, they can be whoever you decide are your people; the ones who support you, watch you grow, and celebrate your success. They can be family, your sports mates, colleagues or workmates, or your chosen friends. There can be more than one tribe in different areas of your life, but basically, they are the ones you respect, the ones you trust with your thoughts, feelings, and emotions. They are also the ones you go to war with, and in return, they see the same in you.
Generosity in spades
My heartfelt gratitude to Strainrite for their donation of $1,500 from the sale of stock sticks at the Fieldays. The purchase of the leftover dozen by Shaun Davies of Davies Fencing at the FCANZ Conference was also welcomed, as we are a charity, and every dollar helps!
Lean on a Gate update
As the Conference progressed (well managed by the two Js at the wheel), I got time to explain what we had been up to with the ‘Lean on a Gate’ campaign. We have developed and signed off in Parliament, a Memorandum of Understanding with Mates in Construction, to be able to offer real mental health training to the rural sector. We will offer this to fencers through to fertiliser reps, vets to bank staff, agronomists to auctioneers, and the many other roles in between which make up our primary industries.
This project is something I, and others in the charity, have been working on for the last two years, as we have really seen the need. We also want more collaboration between the services available to rural New Zealand and hope to champion them. It has not been lost on me that the many thousands of dollars spent on celebrity speakers over the last few years have opened the door for people to seek help, or even offer help, but where to go is the issue.
Grassroots training to strengthen communities, with the backup of the many services Mates in Construction and others have, is where we need to spend the valuable dollars now. This was well supported by those attending the Taupo event, and to be honest, it meant the world to me. It became apparent to me, standing in front of the FCANZ members, that there was an emotive response from many in the room. It created an outpouring of gratitude and emotion from me. Or was there someone chopping onions in the kitchen next door?
The truth is, FCANZ supported me with some of the first donations to the charity, and has done so every year. I realised that my tribe – the FCANZ tribe – has enabled, supported and watched our kaupapa grow to where it is now a well-recognised support network, facilitating help, and adding strength to rural NZ. This is our journey, and I thank you! What it means to me was obvious – as I fought back the tears of relief – that we now have this partnership in the making with Mates.
Congratulations
I’d like to congratulate the award winners and nominees for the respective FCANZ industry awards. I always look forward to judging the Emerging Talent award, and feel privileged for the chance to MC the evening. We have some great people in the industry, and to have the sponsor’s reward them, and their peers to applaud them, is a worthy cause.
On the last day of Conference, I checked out, not before having a nice breakfast with Phil Cornelius and Donna Upton, the President and his Advisor. Their commitment to the industry is huge. It takes its toll and should be rewarded, even if only with the odd “thanks for what you do,” or the offer of a beer or coffee would go a long way in rewarding them for their efforts. They are people-orientated and driven to see the industry succeed – an asset that would not easily be replaced.
From a Patrons point of view, I think we are well served, and they have – at their own costs – represented us well. Let’s help them where possible to continue their great work!
Flying out of Taupo, I sat next to Joe Schmidt, the legendary rugby coach. I asked him what makes a good coach. His answer, “They won’t care about what you know, until they know you care.” This is what makes us humans: compassion and empathy, which equals support.
Arriving home and holding the couch down, I got a video call from Donna to tell me the good buggers at Conference had raised $8,000+ for the charity, to support us further. Again, those mysterious onions got in my eyes…
You’re a bloody good tribe – you’re my tribe, and I’m so very grateful!
Hugh Morrison from Strainrite announcing the $1500 raised for Lean on a Gate through stock stick sales
Conference25 in Taupo (August 6th – 8th) was another awesome reminder of why FCANZ conferences are worth showing up for, if you haven’t yet.
With a theme of “It’s not just WHAT you know, but WHO you know”, the event provided delegates with ample networking opportunities, a fantastic speaker lineup, superb food and some great entertainment.
The official 3-day programme could not have started better, thanks to the stunning, if somewhat chilly, Waikato weather for the National Fencing Field Day on the Wednesday. Sadly, it deteriorated over the week, but that made for a very cosy final dinner on the Friday evening. Here’s an overview of what delegates experienced at this year’s not-to-be-missed event.
WEDNESDAY
The fifth annual FCANZ National Fencing Field Day was literally held in a paddock just out of Wairakei. Thankfully, with people still traumatised by the weather in Stratford in 2023, Taupo put on a beautiful, if chilly, day for the event.
With around 200 attendees, there was plenty to see and do with various competitions scattered around the exhibits, alongside the annual FCANZ Games of hammer throw, guess the strainer weight, distance pacing, and guess the staples. Secondary students from the local area joined Primary Industries Academy students from Geraldine High School for a fencing competition training session with fencing comp legends Owen Petersen and Shane Bouskill, assisted by Phil Cornelius and about half a dozen other fencers keen to teach a few tricks. The afternoon finished with a “Clash of the Bangers” competition, which provided great watching and a bit of hard work for the competitors!
At the same time, nine lucky ladies attended the annual Ladies Who Lunch event – exploring iconic Taupo spots and sampling some pretty delicious fare, finishing with a wee gin tasting session. Keep an eye out for Conference26 info, as the next Ladies Who Lunch event is likely to sell out fast!
Wednesday evening saw us heading to Finn’s on their burger & beer evening for our famous Mix & Mingle dinner. The space was buzzing with old friends catching up and new acquaintances being made during a thoroughly enjoyable evening.
THURSDAY
Thursday was a full day – the longest in the Conference programme. FCANZ Executive Director Jaime Bigwood was MC for the day and delivered the Association update, providing attendees with an overview of what had been worked on since the last Conference. This was closely followed by the Association’s Annual General Meeting, which saw an increase in the maximum number of Board Officers from seven to nine, the retirement of Nick Terry and the addition of Scott Heasley, Burne Maxted and Ruben Connelly.
The theme of ‘It’s not just WHAT you know, but WHO you know’ meant a focus on connecting people and sharing information. The first session of the day had former American Fence Association President, and long-time business consultant, Tony Thornton dial in from Texas to talk through his ‘7 Strategies’ for fence contractor business success. The session with WorkSafe was next up, with some fascinating insights, and it was great for attendees to be able to ask questions about how the inspection process works, particularly with their current focus on reducing harm in the Agricultural sector.
Unfortunately, ‘Bad News Brad’ wasn’t available this year to give us the economic update. However, we were lucky enough to have his boss, Gareth Kiernan, provide the annual sector insights thanks to Infometrics. Maybe we’ll wait until there is better news before we have them back again!
After a VERY generous lunch, we came back to an update from Wiggy on the work he is doing in the rural mental health space – when he once again reminded delegates just how passionate he is about saving lives. This was followed by a very quick pivot, to have Wiggy run our ‘speed networking session’: lining up all the delegates in two rows facing each other. The hum of people getting to know each other in only 5 minutes was delightful, and we’re pretty sure some new connections were made (before heading off for beverages together at the end of the day).
Throughout the day, we were delighted to give away $2,500 worth of Strainrite gear across five lucky attendees, and one very lucky contractor won a massive $7,126 wire and tools prize thanks to Farmlands.
Awards Dinner
Our fourth annual industry awards gala dinner was incredibly well attended, and some of the outfits were superb! Once again, the Constable Kitchen catering team outdid themselves with plenty of delicious food. Congratulations to all nominees and finalists – you can read all about them in later pages.
FRIDAY
Activities Day
We tried something different this year with a “mix & match” approach to the Friday activities. Delegates were able to choose which activities they did from mini golf, tenpin bowling, a games arcade, a ninja course and a scavenger hunt. At the same time, there were two tours of the PermaPine site offered, and feedback on the visit was excellent, with one delegate saying it was the highlight of his Conference. Most delegates chose to avoid the rain and instead build on the connections they had made over the previous two days. A social bunch all met up for lunch at Mavericks before heading on their way to the next adventure.
The ‘Last Hurrah’ Dinner
The final dinner of Conference was also held at the Lake Taupo Yacht Club and once again the food was plentiful and delicious. It was a brilliant evening, full of impromptu action, including a member feedback session where the group were able to ask all their burning questions. The organising team were then blown away when an impromptu auction raised more than $8000 for the Lean on a Gate programme delivered by the Whatever with Wiggy Charitable Trust. Rookie auction master Janine Swansson did a great job, and there was much hilarity at the bidding rivalry and some of the prizes (which shall not be discussed here!). Thank you to all those who donated items for auction and those who placed bids.
NETWORKING GALORE
We’re told time and again that the most valuable (and enjoyable) part of every conference for members and industry partners alike is the networking opportunities. Catching up with old friends and making new connections is a key component of every FCANZ event, and therefore, we make sure to factor in as much of this as possible at Conference.
Our pre-conference unofficial dinner on Tuesday night was held this year at firm favourite Lone Star, and saw more than 40 people attending (over a third of our conference attendees!). Wednesday evening’s informal ‘Mix & Mingle’ dinner was another great chance for everyone to catch up over delicious food, regardless of where they were staying.
Multiple networking/socialising opportunities were available on Thursday, particularly during the extra-long breaks, thanks to being well ahead of schedule for much of the day. The free time on Friday was also well used by many delegates to connect and interact. Board and Ops team members alike were delighted to see new friendships developing, and all in all, it seemed that new Conference attendees were like old friends by the end of the week.
FINAL WORD
A huge thanks to Association partners and sponsors who supported the Conference and exhibited at the NFFD, and to the members who attended and made the Conference the success it was. We look forward to hosting you again next year.
What do you get when you mix great company, delicious food, and stunning art? Another unforgettable day out with the fabulous ‘Ladies Who Lunch’ crew!
Expertly curated by the ever-wonderful Jeanette and hosted by Janine, this year’s day trip was a vibrant tapestry of laughter, connection, and discovery. As we headed into the first day of the conference, we felt richer for the energy and connections we had already made – thanks to a lineup of experiences that were as unique as they were memorable.
Not just for shoppers!
While not all of us would call ourselves avid shoppers, the journey proved delightful in every way. From quirky boutiques to artisan studios, each stop offered something new to admire, taste, or take home. The Huka Falls were in full flow, and for once, we could enjoy the spectacle without worrying about our children leaping over the sides!
A feast of art and creativity
We were treated to a visual banquet of creativity:
Mosaics and pottery at the charming L’Arté Café and Gallery
Raw clay artistry at the studio of the incredibly talented Isabell Meyer, “Dahlia in Clay”
Glass blowing demonstrations that left us in awe of the precision and beauty of molten art
The visit to the Bee Shop buzzed with busy shopping, where most of us couldn’t resist making a purchase or two. After a delicious lunch at Café Lava, we enjoyed the Glassblowing Studio, Sculpture Garden, and Art Gallery. The Lava Glass gallery, with pieces priced at up to $55,000, was more of a feast for the eyes than the wallet. We figured our fencers wouldn’t appreciate such extravagant souvenirs… though they might have been making their own significant purchases back at the National Fencing Field Day!
Spirits and stories
Our final stop was a true gem: the Five Mile Gin and Vodka Distillery. We were honoured to be their very first visitors! The entrepreneurial story behind their award-winning spirits was inspiring, and the tastings were divine. It was the perfect way to toast the end of a spectacular day.
Celebrating connections
We wrapped up with a few well-deserved prizes:
Most Unique Purchase: Lisa Brown
Best Story Shared with New Friends: Jessica Kane
Congratulations to our winners – and to everyone who made the day so special. We’re already looking forward to the next Ladies’ Day Out in Timaru, 2026. So don’t be shy – come join the fun, the friendship, and the fabulousness!
What a cracker of a day we had – you couldn’t have asked for better weather. Sunshine, clear skies, and just a bit crispy underfoot, first thing. The weather’s the one thing we can’t control, but this year it was on our side.
The day got underway at 9am with the Secondary Schools Fencing Challenge right in the middle of the event area. We had around 50 students from schools all over New Zealand in attendance – some were there to compete, others to soak up as much knowledge as they could from the experts. Owen Petersen and Shane Bouskill were on hand, sharing their competition expertise, along with Level 3 Tutor Greg Burton, who generously passed on his knowledge and experience. The input from these industry greats gave the students a day they’ll remember for a long time. Teachers and parents also had the chance to learn about the FCANZ Career Pathway and NorthTec National Certificates – clear next steps for students who want to build a career in fencing and the wider industry.
Industry partners were spread throughout the site, running demonstrations and displays across the day. This gave members plenty of opportunities to see new kit in action, chat directly with suppliers and network with industry supporters. These National Fencing Field Days and Best Practice Days really are vital – they create space for members, non-members, and partners to connect, share information, and showcase innovation.
The Banger Challenge was definitely a highlight, with Revolution, Fencepro, and Kinghitter going head-to-head. It’s not often you get to see three post drivers in action side by side. Huge thanks to Piako for supplying a tractor, and to Richard and Aaron for providing another from the farm.
When the machines fired up, they grabbed everyone’s attention, and it was a real drawcard on the day. Having the chance to compare machinery in action and chat directly with the people behind them is invaluable for members considering their options.
Another crowd favourite was the Milwaukee Toolbox Competition, back again this year. Congratulations to David Swansson, winner of the Members’ section, and to Fergus Tarrant, who won the Non-Members’ section – and has since signed up as a General Member. Welcome to the Association, Fergus! It was great to see a handful of other new members joining on the day, as well as a few past members returning – a positive sign for the future of the industry.
Farmlands and Waratah both put on fun and engaging challenges at their stands, testing members’ knowledge and skills – with plenty of puzzled looks and laughs along the way. Add in our usual site games, like stride measurement and hammer throw, and there was no shortage of entertainment. Let’s be honest: hammers get thrown on the fenceline when things aren’t going to plan, but in competition mode the technique looks a little different!
Overall, it was a fantastic day with a great turnout, positive energy, and valuable connections made. Events like these always give us something to learn and improve on, but the feedback so far has been really encouraging. The students, in particular, asked some great questions – one of the best being: “How much weight can a fence hold if a cow falls on it?” That one had the fencers scratching their heads for a moment!
A huge thank you to Richard Lamb, Farm Manager, for hosting us on the property, and to his 2IC, Aaron, who was a massive help with preparation and set-up in the lead-up to the event. Thanks also to Debbie Robertson (Rural Safe) and Neil Robertson (Fensin) for lending their time and energy with site set-up – much appreciated.
Thanks again to everyone who contributed and took part. These days wouldn’t happen without the support of our hosts, partners, and members. If there’s anything you’d like to see more (or less) of at future events, please share your feedback – it all helps us to make the next one even better.
opportunities, a fantastic speaker lineup, superb food and some great entertainment.
people still traumatised by the weather in Stratford in 2023, Taupo put on a beautiful, if chilly, day for the event.
great watching and a bit of hard work for the competitors!
