80 | Twenty years strengthening New Zealand fencing Kelly Deeks The Fencing Contractors Association of New Zealand (FCANZ) marks 20 years as an incorporated society this year, a milestone that reflects major change across the fencing sector and the wider rural economy. Over two decades, the organisation has grown from a small group of contractors to the leading voice for professional fencers nationwide, guiding the development of a trade that continues to evolve in scale, skill, and recognition. One of the most significant shifts has occurred on-farm, where fencing has steadily moved from a job done between other jobs to a specialist service. FCANZ President Phil Cornelius says farmers increasingly see the value in engaging trained contractors. “Farmers used to do everything themselves, but over the past decade there’s been growing acceptance that bringing in a professional often works out cheaper and more efficient,” Phil says. “It frees farmers up to focus on their stock, and they know the fence going in will be built to a high standard.” When FCANZ was formally incorporated in 2006, two years after it first formed, its founding objectives were ambitious. The organisation set out to lift the standard and visibility of fencing nationwide, grow demand for professional contractors, promote quality workmanship, encourage training, and support regional information sharing. Today those aspirations are captured in a single mission: to raise the profile of fencing as a recognised trade built on best practice, quality standards, and ongoing professional development. That mission is supported by three core principles — that fencing is a recognised trade, a worthwhile career, and an industry where best practice is the norm. But as Phil notes, progress has not come without challenges. Fencing remains largely unregulated, and while the Fencing Act 1978 outlines responsibilities for boundary fencing, it does not prescribe construction standards. Councils add their own by-laws around height and style, creating a patchwork of requirements across the country. To address this gap, FCANZ is developing a comprehensive suite of best-practice technical drawings covering a range of fence types. “Everyone has their own way of doing things, and practices vary between regions,” Phil says. “These drawings set out what we consider best practice based on 20 years’ industry experience. Contractors can still use their preferred methods, but this gives members and landowners a clear understanding of what good looks like.” The drawings are being developed by an experienced panel of fencers from around New Zealand and are undergoing peer review to ensure they are robust and practical. The first set, due for release in the first half of 2026, will cover key rural fence types along with post-and-rail and paling options. FCANZ members will access the drawings through the member portal, while councils and construction RURAL SERVICES » FCANZ companies will be able to purchase them to support procurement. While FCANZ’s foundations lie in rural fencing, its membership now spans residential, commercial, and security sectors. Many contractors work across multiple environments and materials, and a growing number have diversified into vineyard installations, orchard structures, track building, decking, and retaining walls. Later this year FCANZ will launch a new website, including an upgraded contractor directory that currently attracts more than 20,000 visits annually. Executive Director Jaime Bigwood says improving accessibility is a priority. “We run an always-on Google Ads campaign to help ensure our members are the first contractors people find. A seamless user experience is essential, and the directory plays a key role in lifting the visibility and recognition of fencing as a professional trade.” For an industry built on precision, craftsmanship, and pride in doing things right, FCANZ’s 20-year milestone marks not just longevity but the growing professionalism of a trade that underpins the rural landscape “These drawings set out what we consider best practice based on 20 years’ industry experience.” FCANZ Members test the strength of various footing techniques at a recent Best Practice Day. Attendees at a North Island Best Practice Day in 2025, being shown some of the intricacies of paling fences (below). Scan me! RURAL SERVICES SPECIALIST We are your trusted professional, rural fencing experts, catering to Rotorua, Taupo and Whakatane districts. Contact Us srsfencing@gmail.com Scott 027 4277 946 www.notjustfencing.org.nz
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDc2Mzg=