| 87 RURAL SERVICES » Westgarth Rural / Two Boys Fencing Quality fencing solutions built on solid reputation Two Boys Fencing specialises in rural fencing for sheep and beef properties. Kelly Deeks Banks Peninsula-based fencing contractor Two Boys Fencing is building on a solid reputation across the Peninsula and the wider Selwyn district as the business continues to deliver high-quality rural fencing solutions for farms councils, and conservation land. Matt Latham, who purchased the business just before COVID-19, first started working for the original owners on a casual basis with his own bulldozer and post driver. His hands-on experience and commitment to the job quickly led to full-time work and eventually, business ownership. “We were working up on the Port Hills after the fires, and things just grew from there,” he says. “I ended up making them an offer and taking over the business in 2018.” Operating two crews from Little River through to the wider Selwyn region, Two Boys Fencing specialises in rural fencing for sheep and beef properties, hill country work, animal enclosures, retaining walls, and fencing maintenance. The team also works with the QEII National Trust, the Banks Peninsula Conservation Trust, and local councils, supporting conservation and land management efforts. Matt says the rural sector’s unique demands mean flexibility is key. “The weather dictates everything out here,” he says. “We aim to get all our hill work done before winter and keep flatland jobs lined up for the wetter months. This summer and autumn have been especially wet, and the saturated ground can’t take any more.” He believes changes in environmental management have contributed to recent flooding issues and the rural voice, which used to have the presiding influence in council decision-making, is now just a tiny thing. Despite the challenges, Two Boys Fencing continues to grow, largely through repeat clients and word-of-mouth referrals. Matt credits this to a strong focus on quality and investing in the right equipment and training. “We do the job properly,” he says. “Our gear is suited for hill country, and we’re constantly reviewing our work, walking the lines, tweaking the wires, and learning from every job.” The business also benefits from being part of Fencing Contractors NZ, which offers access to industry training, certification pathways, and professional development opportunities for Matt and the Two Boys Fencing crews. “This is a trade with a proper qualification now, and the industry has come a long way. It’s not just something you fall into anymore, we take pride in what we do.” Matt says the fencing industry is great to be a part of, and collaboration among local contractors is common, rather than competition. “If I’m busy or if the job’s out of our immediate area, I’ll recommend someone else. We’re all in this together, and it’s a supportive industry.” Now in his 50s, Matt has stepped back from previously held governance roles and is now focusing on mentoring younger staff. reliability and quality. It has top-tier equipment that is well-maintained and dependable and the business works throughout the region from Middlemarch to the McKenzie Country. Isabella says they are eager to expand the business’s operational footprint. “We’re happy to travel anywhere. We’re always looking to grow the business and looking at expanding further afield. There are no limits on where we’ll go,” she says. Isabella manages the administration side of the business and sends packed lunches for the crew every day- which can comprise of up to 12 staff members - as well as caring for the couple’s two young children, three-year-old Wylie and fivemonth-old Tully. She also works in her parents’ farming enterprise, Real Milk Timaru. Isabella says that Jock Stock livestock services is actively establishing itself within the community fabric. It sponsors local dog trials, and the shearing event at the Get to the Point show. “Having those relationships where we have a beer after a hard day’s work is great. It’s about those personal ties and building those relationships with customers is a real highlight for us,” says Isabella. As it approaches its second full year of operation, Isabella says Jock Stock Livestock • Business Advisors • Tax Advice 53-55 Sophia Street, Timaru (03) 687 2036 admin@footes.co.nz www.footes.co.nz • Business Development • Accountancy Proud to support Westgarth Rural Ltd Peter McPherson, Chris Heath, Peter Cockburn, Megan Baird, Dean Mitchell, Sandra Wiggins & Suppor�ng Staff. 10ft super yard 10ft standard yard The trusted name in animal management solutions National Sales Manager 027 233 4265 Geoff Paterson 167 Visit us via our New Entrance on 167 Manion Road 167 MANION ROAD, WEEDONS 8441, CHRISTCHURCH P: 03 347 7465 F: 03 347 7032 E: sales@cthl.co.nz C O N T AC T : OP EN Mon-Fri 7.00am - 5.00pm Saturday 8.00am - 12.00pm Y O U R L O C A L T I M B E R M E R C H A N T The Right Fence at the Right Price Roundwood Farm Posts Deer Fencing Post and Rail Fencing Yarding Timber Oregon Rails Oregon Gates Sheep & Deer Netting Gallagher Strainrite Fencing Systems He often employs students from Lincoln University and says the industry offers a strong career path for young people willing to learn. “We work hard during the week, and we don’t work weekends,” he says. “The goal is building a sustainable business that delivers for our clients and gives us all a good quality of life.” Services is focused on continued growth, powered by the Westgarths’ experience and commitment to quality service delivery.
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