With the whole of New Zealand in lockdown, many of us are spending more time at home than we have in a very long time.  And with all that time spent at home it is easy to start discovering all the odd jobs, chores and that mountain of paperwork that that you have been ignoring for months, April 2020 could end up looking like the most productive month of the year for you! 

However, when you add in the responsibility of entertaining kids, if you have them, then suddenly productivity goes out the window!

Although we are getting closer and closer to the winter months the sun is still shining, and this is the best time to get the kids out into the fresh air for a bit of fun.  ​Rugby, cricket, or soccer - whatever your choice of sport, here are some tips for setting up your backyard sports field not just for now but for the whole year round. 

Games with portable equipment like cricket, bowls football and rugby are often first choice for back garden sports.
They are less expensive and everything can be stored  away when you're not using it and your garden can still be used as a functional space for other activities when your kids switch to a new favourite sport or outgrow their trampoline.  

We want to let all of our loyal clients know that in response to the New Zealand Government's decision to move into alert level 4 we will be closed for the isolation period.  

We will however still be available as an essential service for emergencies. 

Anything you deem urgent please give us a call and we’ll do our best to help out and if you're not sure if its urgent then call us anyway!  We are a ground root local business and will find this period really tough so we appreciate your support and loyalty in the coming months ahead once the isolation is lifted.

Hoping everyone stays safe and well in the trying times ahead.

The addition of a quality boarder fence on your property is a great way to create privacy in your outdoor space, gives extra safety and security and can also help to reduce unwanted ambient noise in your garden.
Your boarder fence is also something that adds to the curb-side appeal and look of your home so making sure that it looks great is important.

In our previous post we laid out the basics of what you will need to do to prepare for your DIY fencing project and the supplies you'll need.  
Now that you're ready to get going here is a break down of what do do next.

When you were planning out your fence you should have decided how high you would like it and chosen the post that will suit this. 
​Using your string line and Measure out and mark where your posts will be, space the posts 2m apart.

Dig holes with a spade or post hole borer to a depth of 600mm and make sure to clear out any loose material in the holes. 

Move your stringline from the centre of the post holes, to 50mm away from where the face of your posts will sit. ​
Starting with your 2 end posts you should check that they are 50mm off the string line, brace the post and make sure they are plumb.

Next, run a string line between the 2  end posts to mark the hight of your fence. If you can, you should use a lazar level here to be sure the string line is correct or if you are building your fence on uneven or sloped ground.

Continue to place and brace the remaining posts in their holes in the same way.  

Mix your concrete and get ready to pour.  You should make sure you follow the instructions for the type of concrete that you have.   Pour the concrete carefully around each of your posts and compact the mix to get rid of any air pockets using a piece of wood.  

At this point you should once again check that your posts are still sitting 50mm off the string-line and are plumb, if anything is off then now it the time to correct and adjust it.  Don't wait to do this especially if you are using a quick drying concrete, you may only have a few minutes.  

Once you are happy with your posts then leave the concrete to set for at least 24 hours.  Once set you can remove the braces.

Using a chalk line, mark the position of the rails on your fence posts.  You should aim to keep rails 150mm up from the bottom and 150mm down from the top.  If your ground is uneven then find the highest point and measure up the post from that point for your bottom rail
If your fence is over 1200mm high you should use three rails, for fences under 1200mm use two.  
You can choose if you want your rails to be fixed between the posts or to the face of the post.  It all depends on what style you are going for and how you want the finished fence to look.  

If fixing rails between posts, rails should be measured at ground level, squared and cut to length.  You can check the alignment with your chalk like and make sure the rails are square.   Fix using three 100mm baton purlin screws

​For face-fixed rails select a rail length that can span three posts and fix rails with two 100mm baton purlin screws, or in high wind zones use coach screws.

Use a ratchet strap to pull your posts together before screwing together.  Using screws instead of nails with hold the timber together much better and will last a lot longer than if you use nails.  

Hopefully this guide will help you with your DIY fencing project and Good luck!

As professional fencing contractors we understand that there are a lot of stages and components involved in building the perfect fence.  
We have also seen a lot of interesting DIY attempts that often don't work out as well as they should.  When people ask what our best advice is for building a new fence then our first recommendation is to do it right the first time and call a professional!

However, if you're a bit of a DIY handy man and you are thinking of building that new boundary fence yourself then here are a few tips to help you along the way and hopefully save you some time and money. 

Like most building projects and additions to a property, there are some rules and regulations when building your fence.  
You can build a fence up to 2.5m high with out the need for a permit although it is always a good idea to check this with your local council before you start. 

If you are building a boundary fence you will need to talk with your neighbour about your plans, the style and cost and confirm with them if you will need access onto their property during the build.  Getting a copy of the fencing act will give you all the information you need on your rights and obligations.

You must also make sure you establish exactly where the boundary of your property is.  If you are not sure you then you can request a copy of your plans from the council, or get a surveyor to correctly establish your boundary.  
You should also check the plans for the location of any pipes and consult your electricity provider for information about underground wires that may not be shown on the plans.

Building a fence can seem like a job that doesn't require too many tools but there are some important items you'll need if you want to build a Paling fence that is sturdy, straight and will last.  Most people will have most of these in their tool box but you may need to borrow or buy the less common tools.

Firstly you need to decided what you want your fence to look like and the materials that you are going to make it out of.
Decide your height and choose your posts to suit.  For the rails you'll need to choose if you want these fixed in between the posts or on the front of them. For fence heights above 1.2m you will need to use three rails. 
For your concrete, either go for a builders mix and cement at a ratio of 6:1, or pre-mixed concrete.
Top tip to work out the volume of concrete that you will need use the following:

• For a square hole Width x width x depth x number of holes.
• For a round hole: Diameter x diameter x .7854 x depth x number of holes.

Lastly but importantly, measure up and draw yourself a plan so you can then work out your materials and order them.

In our next post we'll take you through our practical tips to get your fence built right.  

Fences come in many different sizes, materials and styles and depending on their purpose, some require more maintenance than others.  Unfortunately no matter how good the quality of your fencing is, at some point they will probably need fixing or replacing. Maintaining fence lines can be a daunting task especially rural and farm fencing and even more so if you are just learning how!  The most important thing is to catch problems early so any damage or wear and tear can be repaired.  This is a much less costly option than leaving things too long and needing to replace the fence all together.  

​So, we are bringing you a list of some common fencing problems you might come across and what you can do about them. 

There are a few reasons why a fence is leaning and it's a common issue that can occur.  A leaning fence is usually caused by:

• Rotting fence posts
• inadequate foundations or too much weight on the foundations
• Tree roots
• ​High winds or damage from impact 

Repairing a leaning fence will depend on what the cause is so there are a few things you can look for.  Start with the fence posts is the woo Soft and rotting at the base of the fence post?  Sometimes a fence will lean due to to post not being anchored deeply enough in the ground?  Rotting fencing posts will need to be replaced with a new possibly more durable material.  Posts at the wrong depth need to be re-installed at the correct depth. 

Tree roots can also cause problems with the foundations of your fence posts.  Before carrying out any repairs or reinstalling the fence the roots will need to be dealt with first.  

It can be difficult to identify problems like these as they are not alway obvious so before you take on the project yourself we alway recommend contacting a specialist fencing contractor for this.  Wear Fencing is able to offer you advice on the repair and maintenance of issues like this to prevent the same damage happening again in the future. 

As we've already mentioned, even the most we built fences can crack or deteriorate.  The rails that run horizontally can become damaged if fence posts were installed to far apart, start to rot or move or if too much pressure is put on the rail for support.  once again, you will need to understand why or how the rail was damaged in order to understand how to repair it.  

Depending on the cause, repair options inculde:

• Replacing the rail with a different more appropriate material for the purpose of the fence
• Adding extra support
• Installing more fence posts
• Installing fixings

Wire fencing is a common choice for farm and rural fencing.  It usually consists of two strainer posts adjoined to a 45 degree stay which takes the strain and stops it falling over.  Between the trainer posts are evenly spread out pickets which are used to direct the wire along or around the area of your choice.  

Common problems that can occur with wire fencing include:

• Broken or split wires
• Corrosion 
• Damage caused by Tree and vegetation growth
• Wear and tear from livestock

If the fencing on your lifestyle block of farm is in poor condition then maintaining livestock can become tedious and you increase the risk loosing them.  For example goats usually burrow and find the loose wires lower on the fence to escape through.  The wires will need to be strained tight to reduce the chance of livestock escaping and discourage this behaviour.  

You may also have fallen trees and branches that have caused damage to the wire or vegetation that has grown over or against the fencing.  Overgrown trees are common culprits of fence damage. They grow into the fence, pressuring it into a lean. Repairing a leaning fence is generally quite affordable, and can be as simple as replacing a post and removing the tree, or part of it.

Regularly checking your fence for these types of issues will make it a much easier task to maintain fencing boundaries and often if the problem is small and simple you will be able to repair this yourself.  

We do recommend that if you are having regular issues with wire fencing that you talk to a rural fencing contractor to discuss if there are other more sustainable options for you.  

When you have your fence installed by a fencing contractor they should let you know how to best maintain your fencing, to make it last in the short and the long term.  At Wear fencing we do our best to answer any questions our clients have and educate them on what to look out for how to get the best value and life from their new fencing.

​A properly installed and maintained fence can last for 10 or more years, depending on the materials.  It can save a lot of time and money knowing what to look out for and steps you can take to keep your fence in good condition and fit for purpose.  

If you are due for maintenance or inspection of your fencing you are looking for a fencing contractor in Christchurch or Canterbury, then Wear Fencing can help.   Contact Us today for more information on repairs, maintenance, installation and information.

If you want to build a fence between your property and your neighbour's, you don't need to argue forever about how it should be done or who will pay. The Fencing Act sets out your rights and obligations.

Can you ask a neighbour to contribute to the cost of a new fence?
Yes. Generally, if you want to build a fence on a common boundary with your neighbour, or upgrade an existing one, you can expect the neighbour to go halves on the bill for the fence. That is, one that is "reasonably satisfactory" for the purpose it is intended to serve.
You should discuss your plans with your neighbour before you start putting in the fence-posts though, and keep the proposal reasonable. They are entitled to object if they disagree about what is appropriate.
If you can not reach an agreement, or your neighbour refuses to pay half, there is a formal process you can follow. First, you must serve your neighbour with a "fencing notice".

What should the "fencing notice" say?
The notice should state that it is served under the Fencing Act 1978 and contain the names and addresses of both you and your neighbour. It must describe:

• The boundary to be fenced.
• The type of fence to be built.
• Who will build the fence.
• The estimated total cost.
• How materials are to be purchased.
• The start date for work.

It must also explain that your neighbour has 21 days to object to any aspect of the proposal and make any counter proposals. It must say that if your neighbour does not accept liability, you must be told within 21 days the reason why and be given the name and address of whoever your neighbour believes is liable.
The notice must also say that if your neighbour makes no communication within 21 days, they will be deemed to have agreed to the proposals and will have to share the cost.  Remember to sign and date the notice, and keep a copy for yourself. You can deliver it by registered letter or in person. 
You can find a sample noice in the Fencing Act to help you with this.

What if you or your neighbour doesn't want a new fence at all?
If your neighbour objects to the new fence or if you have received a fencing notice and do not agree with it then it should be responded to with a cross-notice. They can object to part or all of the  proposal if they believe the existing fence is adequate, or think your proposal is excessive. They can also object to being asked to pay if they don't own the property.

What should a cross-notice say?
This cross-notice must be served in person or sent by registered mail and must be received within 21 days. It should detail your neighbour's objection and any counter proposals. It should also state that it is served under the Fencing Act.  There is also sample cross-notice is included in the schedules to the Act.

What happens next?
If you can't agree between you, your options to resolve the dispute include mediation, arbitration, a Disputes Tribunal or a District Court.  If you can't agree on the type of fence you can also get this issue resolved durning mediation but your neighbour doesn't have to pay any more than half the cost of an "adequate" fence.

My neighbour still objects to the fence and won't let the builder cross the boundary line while building the fence. Can they do this?
Yes. But if it happens, you can seek an order from a District Court or Disputes Tribunal to allow anyone building the fence to enter your neighbour's property at reasonable times and do whatever is reasonably required to build the fence.  It is a good idea to raise this issue in your fencing notice. This way, at the initial hearing the court or tribunal can authorise you, or anyone employed by you to build the fence, to enter your neighbour's property.

Exactly where should the fence go?
The fenceposts should be placed right on the boundary line or as near to it as practicable. If there are no posts, the middle of the fence should be on the boundary line.

My neighbour destroyed our fence and now they want me to help pay for a new one. Do I have to?
No. They were responsible for the damage and they have to pay.

The fence has been destroyed in a storm, but my neighbour is overseas and I need to get it repaired quickly. Can I ask them to help with the cost when they get home?
Yes. If your neighbours are away, and a fence needs immediate repairs, you can do the work and recover half the costs from the other owner.
If the fence requires replacing, you should replace it with a comparable fence. But you can't upgrade the fence without your neighbour's agreement.

How high can my fence be?
You can usually build up to 2 metres in height without getting planning consent from the local council.
However, you should always check with the council to make sure. It may be that you live in a special heritage area or are affected by rules in the district plan that mean you cannot build your fence this high.

All rural and farm fencing is different and there are some things to consider when decided what type of fencing is needed.  
​
What you need to know when choosing rural fencing:

• The type of animal that is being kept in or out of a property
• Is the fence is an internal fence or boundary fence?
• The topography of the site

If your intention is to keep cattle in an enclosure, they will require heavier fencing materials because cattle are heavy animals and can place more pressure on a fence.

An internal fence is a smaller fence that may keep cattle, sheep or other animals in a small enclosure.
​A boundary fence will enclose the boundary of the property and should be chosen to withstand floods if necessary and be able to be installed on flat areas, gullies and hillsides.

There are three main components needed for a rural fencing:

Strainer assemblies ​​
The strainer assembly is at the ends of a fence. Strainer assembly is important because it transfers tension from the wires to the ground. Diagonal stays hold some types of strainers in place and a box assembly is another way to keep strainer assemblies from leaning over under the pressure of the wires.

Intermediate posts
Intermediate posts can be placed at an appropriate distance depending on the size of the fence. They are needed to fix wire or timber to and prevent the fence from sagging.

​Wire for boundary fences
Wire can come in prefabricated rolls, plain wire, woven wire or barbed wire. Barbed wire can be placed at the top of the fence, but sometimes is used on all of the wires.

Treated pine can be an inexpensive and effective type of boundary or internal fence, but the posts should be chosen for in-ground use. ​

As already mentioned, large cattle can put more strain on a fence than smaller animals, so choose fencing that is appropriate for the type of animal you want to keep within boundaries. If you are choosing fencing to keep animals out of the property, the fencing should be high enough to keep them from jumping over the fencing and if you want to keep smaller animals out, woven wire may need to be close together to keep them from passing through.

​Wires are usually strung using a multi-wire strainer, which will keep the wires an exact distance apart and they can easily be attached to posts. In addition, "grippies" should be installed periodically. Grippies will allow you to adjust the tension of the wires as they will become slack over time .

Rural fencing should only be installed by professional rural fencing supplier. Wear Fencing can help with this. 

We know what has to be done to keep animals in an enclosure or feral animals out of an enclosure and how to construct quality fencing that will stand the test of time.  Get in touch with us to arrange a quote for your next fencing project. 

In the aftermath of the fires in Australia people are coming together to help those affected to rebuild.  One such organisation is BlazeAid, an organisation of  volunteers who help to rebuild fences and other structures that have been damaged or destroyed.

BlazeAid is a volunteer-based organisation that works with families and individuals in rural Australia after natural disasters such as fires and floods. ​ The organisation works with those affected who are not insured or are under-insured for the cost of rebuilding their rural fencing, or where their personal, physical or financial circumstances are such that they are in genuine need of BlazeAid’s assistance.

​BlazeAid volunteers work in a disaster-affected areas for many months, not only helping individuals and families, but also helping rebuild the local communities.  Volunteers work in fencing teams, with at least one experienced fencer in each team. Working together, they clear the fence lines and re-stand, rebuild or replace fences, working with those affected so that they don't have to work on the repairs alone. Many friendships are formed among volunteers and families as they work together on the fence lines.

You can find more information and live updates on the Australian Bushfires here

New Zealand farmers take great pride in looking after their farms, its animals and the land.  Every part of it contributes to it becoming a  successful, thriving business. 

It’s important to assess and identify risks like effluent ponds and do the planning necessary to avoid accidents.  Assessing the potential risks around Effluent ponds is and important responsibility.  There are various ways to address these risks. 

Farm rules 
Put in place rules for effluent pond safety control who is allowed in the pond area.  Be specific about who can enter the area and that no one is to enter the fenced area alone. This will keep non-swimmers out of the danger and ensure there are always at least two people inside the fence when working.

Fencing
Ponds should be fenced off with a netting fence, this prevents stock, visitors to the farm and children from accidentally falling into the pond.  Ensuring that gates are locked is important as well as considering other farm fencing options such as electric fences.

Ladders
There must always be a minimum of one escape ladder or other means of escape in the pond incase a person falls into the pond.  It is also a good idea to have easy access to a life buoy.

​Signage
Warning signs used along with fencing can be utilised to keep people out of the area but direct communication with people is important too. Talk with farm staff, contractors and visitors about the effluent pond risks.

Visitors​
If you have visitors coming to the farm, make sure that they are aware of the risks around the pond especially for visitors, children and contractors.  During construction it is important to communicate the safety precautions and risks to the supervising engineers, construction companies and contractors and do your research into the company before hand.  

An effluent pond is an investment for any farm and is a way to protect land and waterways from any environmental risks.  It gives farmers peace of mind and the flexibility to spread effluent in the correct conditions, reducing the risk of effluent non-compliance.

Making sure that you have assessed the risk and put safety regulations in place along with the correct farm fencing and signage.  This will protect you and your in the long run.

The 2017 Healthy Waterways report ​has recorded its best stream health trends in 21 years, in the Taranaki Region.   Published by the Taranaki Regional Council, the report looked at trends from 20 years of monitoring and showed most measures were improving or not changing significantly for the ecological health and physical and chemical state of 99% of Taranaki rivers and streams.  

TRC director of environment quality, Gary Bedford, said the report's findings were exciting and validated community efforts to improve water quality. "We're excited about the latest assessments of in-stream life – these are the little insects living in water - the primary indicator of water quality, these are the best ever results since we began measuring," he said.Bedford attributed the changing course of Taranaki water health trends to the work of farmers and landowners, as part of TRC's riparian planting and rural fencing scheme. 

When comparing the regions water quality data with the national standards it was found that across the 11 different monitored sites

• 38 out of 55 were in the A category rating  
• 15 out of 55 were in the B category rating
• 1 ourtof 55 were in the C category rating
• ​Only one was below the national bottom line for acceptable water quality, with a D rating.  

You can read the full report ​here

However, a new study from has found that rural and farm fencing is only the start when it comes to improving New Zealand waterways. 
Freshwater scientists at the Cawthron Institute found that Holistic and sustainable land management are needed in order to restore waterways.  
​ 
"There is no simple solution to restoring a healthy river ecosystem," said lead author Katharina Doehring. "rural fencing is just one component. Stock can't get into the river and can't deposit faeces in fenced sections of the river" . Farm fencing and rural fencing reduces E coli and sediment inputs in the water.  Short sections or Rivers and streams that have been fenced don't then repair themselves.  The only indicator that improved in this study was shade, brought about by planting along stream edges. As they mature, bushes and trees shade the water and can lower its temperature, a desirable result.  The bigger picture is that streams and rivers are connected ecosystems and restoration needs to happen across whole catchments.

"Our waterways need to be managed at a catchment or large scale because small scale efforts have little effect on stream ecosystem health," Doehring said.  "Ideally the landowners in a catchment work together and develop … a coordinated environmental management plan for that catchment'

Unfortunately there isn't a single answer and it depends on what landowners can afford however Dohering is urging land owners to continue fending and planting as they are important first steps.