| 77 Continue to build on life-long relationships Toby loves getting around South Canterbury and the Mackenzie District. Kelly Deeks “We fence on so many different soil types, contours, wind and snow zones, and we have to have really good kit that can handle all of those different conditions.” RURAL SERVICES » Peel Forest Contracting Happily servicing his hometown of Geraldine and surrounding districts with high quality rural fencing, Toby How has continued to build on life-long relationships and connections as he has operated Toby How Fencing for the past 10 years. Toby began fencing while still at school and after leaving, was lucky enough to add some overseas experience, fencing in North America, the UK, and even Mongolia. He says his biggest takeaway from the international market was the fact New Zealand fencing systems are some of the best in the world. “Our equipment has been developed and tweaked and specifically built for New Zealand conditions, which are many and varied,” he says. “Even locally. We fence on so many different soil types, contours, wind and snow zones, and we have to have really good kit that can handle all of those different conditions.” Toby’s history in Geraldine plays an all-important role in the successful running of Toby How Fencing. He has positive relationships going back many years, some he even took for granted in his younger days, like with the local service station and ITM, two valued partners for Toby How Fencing today. Many school friends are now back on their family farms and providing Toby How Fencing with repeat business year on year, while others have helped Toby to utilise local talent to staff his business. “My staff are one of the most important parts of my business,” he says. “As well as personal local connections, the Geraldine High School has an amazing Primary Industries Academy with a strong focus on fencing, so I take students on placement.” Toby’s rugby career has since been sidelined but his time with Geraldine Rugby Club has led to many more opportunities. Although no longer playing, Toby sponsors Geraldine Rugby Club and when they import players, he offers suitable candidates work with Toby How Fencing. Toby loves getting around South Canterbury and the Mackenzie District and seeing what’s going on in the rural sector. After studying agriculture at Lincoln University, he enjoys fulfilling his passion for the industry on other people’s farms. “It’s great being outside and seeing what everyone else is up to. There is so much variety locally, I can get a real feel for what’s happening in the local community and the local economy.” Current economic conditions have seen Toby How Fencing restructured and while output is still the same, Toby is using contractors and casuals rather than permanent full time employees. He is happy to offer a range of solutions for farmers looking to cut their fencing budgets, even so far as only driving posts and letting the farmer stretch the wire by themselves. TOBY HOW FENCING For all your fencing requirements, from rural to residential, give Toby a call today on 027 303 1033. Proudly supporting Peel Forest Contracting M&GAuto Centre Ltd For wheel alignments, servicing of all car makes andmodels, Bridgestone Tyres and Toyota Parts &Service, visit us today! Proudly supporting Peel Forest Contracting 13Peel St, Geraldine | 036939664 Toby is now spending a bit of extra time at home, taking over from his wife Sarah in caring for their two small children as she embarks on a new venture with her emerging business, Landify. Landify is a new platform connecting established farmers, upcoming farmers, and investors for pathways to farm ownership and succession. PROUDLY SUPPORTING PEEL FOREST CONTRACTING
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