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.
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.
In previous years, FCANZ’s presence at regional field days has seen us positioned alongside fencing competitions, where the skill of the trade is on show.
However, to support FCANZ’s strategic goals of raising fencing as a recognised trade and promoting it as a career, the Board decided to try a different approach this financial year.
In February, we trialled a “Fencing Hub” at the Northland Field Days, inviting our industry partners to join us on-site. The hub acted as a one-stop fencing shop, with Bunnings, Strainrite, Summit, Beattie Insulators, NorthTec, Delfast, and Mt Pokaka all exhibiting. While overall attendee numbers were lower than hoped, the concept proved valuable for both visitors and industry partners, providing a more engaging and accessible way to showcase the industry.
Building on this success, the concept was expanded into “Fencing Central” at the National Fieldays, where it was particularly well-received. The positive feedback confirmed that this is a model worth repeating. Industry Partners PermaPine, Beattie Insulators, Stockade, Summit, and NorthTec all had a successful week on-site, with one partner saying, “We absolutely loved it.” The hub provided an excellent platform for partners to showcase their products, connect with attendees, and engage with both existing and potential customers, demonstrating the value of having a central, interactive space dedicated to the fencing industry.
In addition to its immediate success, the hub supports multiple strategic goals, including raising the profile of the fencing industry, promoting the Association and our partners, and connecting with potential members and customers for
our members.
The next Hub will be at Waimumu in February, with nearly all of our Gold partners on-site. We encourage everyone to come along and see it in action.
It’s been a while since our last South Island Best Practice Days – they just missed the cut-off for June’s WIRED – but with another one coming up soon in Ashburton, it’s a good time to look back at Cheviot and Fairlie.
CHEVIOT | 13 May 2025
Cheviot kicked off on a crisp May morning, a reminder that winter was on its way. The cool weather didn’t stop members, non-members, and a few curious locals from turning up. Scott Heasley and his crew got things rolling with a demonstration on installing inter-lock post and rail fencing for a standout entranceway. They shared practical tips on neat joins, keeping posts straight, and solid footing – small details that make a big difference in the finished fence.
Next up was traditional rural fencing. Fencing competition veteran Shane Bouskill showed everyone the ropes on angle stays, footing posts, and wire tensioning. His clear explanations and willingness to answer questions meant even experienced contractors picked up some new tricks.
After a well-earned lunch, our Gold Industry Partners each had 10 minutes to share updates, show off new products, and offer ideas for using their tools and materials in different fencing projects. The afternoon saw everyone finishing the post & rail entranceway and a 7-wire fence line. And true to rural NZ life, a few gum trees decided to fall during the day, keeping everyone on their toes and reinforcing safety on site.
FAIRLIE | 15 May 2025
Fairlie might just take the prize for the most scenic location yet. Clear skies gave views of the snow-dusted mountains all around. Local contractor and event organiser George Williams led the first session, showing how to install roadside boundary post & rail fencing, including routing the rail edges for a clean, professional finish. Debate popped up again over whether to cut joining rails at a 45-degree angle – and yet again the vote was split right down the middle.
Demonstrators Nick Terry, Shane Bouskill, and Noksee then took everyone through the essentials of traditional post & wire fencing, including cutting a precise mortice, setting stays that won’t move, and tensioning wire properly. After lunch, the group tested different footing types and tackled the challenges of fencing on slopes and in hollows – a chance to see both the theory and the practical results in action.
Both days were a great opportunity to connect with other contractors, meet potential new members, and share knowledge. It was especially encouraging to see students from Geraldine High School’s Primary Industries Academy taking part and further developing their skills.
A big thanks to Farmlands for lunch on both days, and to FCANZ Partners – Waratah, Strainrite, Beattie Insulators, Point Lumber, Summit Steel & Wire, and Milwaukee – for being on site, sharing tips, and engaging with attendees. And of course, a huge thank you to all the fencing contractors who volunteer their time to help organise and run the Best Practice Days. Your work is really appreciated by the Board, the Ops team, and everyone who attends.
See you in Ashburton on Tuesday 16 September for the next Best Practice Day!
Cheviot attendees
FCANZ Executive Director Jaime Bigwood
Nick & George testing the strength of different stays
Nick & Noksee welcoming everyone in another picture postcard setting
I never intended to become involved in a fencing business. When Shaun started Davies Fencing and Construction, I was a beach girl studying human development and human potential at university, while also heavily involved in raising our two young kids.
I never realised how much Shaun wanted me to become involved in fencing, but there were signs.
One sunny spring day he asked me, “Can you drive the tractor for me tomorrow babe?” Now, I didn’t have a good track record for driving anything, let alone a huge Massey Ferguson. I had, in the past, driven over kids’ skateboards, bikes, the neighbour’s dog (cringe), and backed into power poles, large rocks and the six foot high wooden gate at our house. Just clean didn’t see it.
“Yeah sure, I’d love to”, I replied.
That job was no better. I ripped up the client’s lawn with the tractor tyres, rode the clutch the whole time, and clipped the mirror on the way out.
Yet, this didn’t deter Shaun from wanting me involved and he kept asking me to join him on the fence line. Like the time I drove the tractor for him as he put in hundreds of bollards in a straight line along a picturesque waterfront. By the 20th bollard I was a teeny bit bored and had a wee look at Instagram, which of course is designed to be addictive (it’s not my fault Sir), and next minute there’s a bang on the window and an irate looking Shaun, which frightened me into slipping into first gear and driving forward with the rammer gear down. And not just once either. A while later I almost accidentally ran him over.
He stopped wanting me to drive the tractor, but instead began asking me to do jobs like battening off a fence or nailing off a deck or putting palings up. “It’s easy as,” he informed.
Which it was.
But I’m not fast like the other guys, and I don’t have the strength that they do. I began to wonder why he kept wanting me to work with him, and thought perhaps it was the see-through-ness of my T-shirt.
But then I worked it out.
He wasn’t wanting my skills (obviously), nor was he wanting free labour (although I’m sure that helped during some tough times).
He wanted me.
He wanted the ‘Husband and Wife’ team.
He wanted the dream.
“It was never my dream to work in the business in that way. My skills were better spent creating team culture, looking after our staff’s wellbeing (and Shaun’s), ensuring that all things flow in the business (doing intermittent admin tasks alongside our admin lady).”
But I had missed that memo. It was never my dream to work in the business in that way. My skills were better spent creating team culture, looking after our staff’s wellbeing (and Shaun’s), ensuring that all things flow in the business (doing intermittent admin tasks alongside our admin lady). I think Shaun still misses ‘The Dream’, but the reality was far from it.
These days, things are running pretty well without me. My role is to turn up to a weekly management meeting (but it’s really only to be nosey and give my two cents worth) and make food for Friday beersies. Never underestimate the importance of a good sausage roll I say, and the impact it may have on a cold, sweaty, hungry fencer.
Being involved in the business can take many shapes, and it’s important to see our value in any way we contribute.
Written by Angelena Davies
Angelena Davies is a wife and mum who happens to have a Masters degree in Social Sciences. Alongside running Davies Fencing she is also a coach, facilitator and author helping children and adults to access “flow” so their lives are easier and more fun.
Taylor Finlayson grew up on a dairy farm near Whangarei, where early mornings, calf rearing, and break feeding were a way of life. Watching her parents work hard every day, Taylor absorbed that same work ethic – she never shied away from the physical side of farm life, and she still doesn’t.
After three years in dairy farming, Taylor made the move into fencing at 23, drawn by the outdoors and the satisfaction of hands-on work. “I don’t need a gym – this job keeps me fit,” she laughs.
Taylor spent her first three years in fencing with a company in Wellsford before joining CPC Fencing in Northland, where she’s now been for four years. Over that time, she’s worked her way up from pulling wires and stapling to now handling everything from battening to post bangers and railing.
She’s currently working towards her Level Four Certificate in Fencing, aiming to become the first female in New Zealand to earn the qualification after its relaunch in 2023. “I wanted to broaden my knowledge and keep challenging myself.”
Working between two crews at CPC, Taylor floats wherever she’s needed. She appreciates the camaraderie. “The team was welcoming from the start. I enjoy the banter, and the variety of our work keeps things interesting.”
Her job takes her across the region – from steep hill country to coastal farms. One highlight was a job on the Purerua Peninsula. “The outlook across the ocean was incredible. And on that terrain, you’ve got to stay sharp – it keeps you thinking.”
Outside of work, Taylor runs a small equestrian business, giving lessons and schooling horses. She also competes in show jumping on her two horses. Her family recently bought a new farm, and she’s taking the lead in setting up the horse paddocks and stables. “It’s exciting – I love building something from the ground up.”
For Taylor, fencing is more than a job – it’s about solving problems and doing meaningful work in the great outdoors. “There is something very satisfying about seeing a fence come together, no two days are the same, that’s what I love most,” she said.
The Fencing Contractors Association of New Zealand (FCANZ) celebrated the best of the best at the 2025 Fencing Industry Awards, recognising the dedication, skill, and contribution of individuals across the fencing sector. Now in their third year, the awards have become a flagship event in the FCANZ calendar, providing the opportunity to honour both rising talent and industry stalwarts.
Level 3 Trainee of the Year
The Level 3 Trainee of the Year award recognised outstanding achievement among 2024 graduates of the NZQA Level 3 National Certificate in Fencing. Finalists included Corbyn Gibbs, who showed determination by attending all training sessions and sharing his knowledge despite recovering from shoulder surgery; Hamish Stanger, a young fencer whose persistence saw him succeed academically while also competing in fencing competitions; and Tom Rathgen, who assisted others on block days, shared his expertise, and completed all course requirements with merit. The award went to Tom Rathgen with the judges noting his consistent commitment to excellence and his willingness to help others succeed.
Level 4 Excellence
Justin Tilly from NorthTec – Tai Tokerau Wānanga with Dan French, winner of the Certificate in Fencing Level 4 Excellence Award. Dan received a batten stapler thanks to Delfast as part of his prize.
The Level 4 Excellence Award honoured graduates of the NZQA Level 4 National Certificate in Fencing who demonstrated consistent professionalism and adaptability. Course tutor and judge Dave Horner said that this year’s graduates were “exceptional as a group,” with consistently high participation making it difficult to single out one winner. This year’s finalists were Andrew Osgood, noted for his professional approach; Dan French, who achieved the highest results in the class; and Luke Jacobsen, who made a strong finish after joining the course later than most. The winner, Dan French, was recognised for his exceptional results and leadership throughout the programme.
Emerging Talent – Youth
Joseph Lord from Stockade NZ with Galen Monks, winner of the Emerging Talent (Youth) Award. Galen also received a batten stapler thanks to Stockade NZ.
The Emerging Talent – Youth Award highlighted the commitment and growth of under-25-year-olds working in the industry. The finalists were Charlie Simpson, who completed both Level 3 and 4 in the same year despite suffering a serious head injury; Galen Monks, a highly skilled and trusted young fencer; Oscar Weston, an enthusiastic and passionate newcomer; and Sean Bridgeman, who, while early in his career, is already demonstrating great promise. The award went to Galen Monks, with judges noting his professionalism, skill, and reliability as key factors in the decision.
Industry Contribution
David Nutsford from PGG Wrightson Ltd with Mike Billinghurst, winner of the Industry Contribution Award. As part of his award, Mike received $1000 of vouchers thanks to PGG Wrightson Ltd.
The Industry Contribution Award recognises individuals who have gone above and beyond to support the growth and development of the fencing sector. This year’s finalists were Debbie Robertson, Debbie White, and Mike Billinghurst. Debbie Robertson was nominated for the significant time, effort, and energy she puts into helping others improve their skills and knowledge. Debbie White was acknowledged for her dedication and ongoing involvement in the fencing industry, as well as her commitment to supporting and contributing to the NZ fencing sector. The award was presented to Mike Billinghurst, recognising his more than 30 years in the industry, including service as FCANZ President, contributions to NZFC competitions, mentoring others, and promoting best practice across the country.
Women of Influence Award
Carey McEwan from Bunnings Trade New Zealand with Donna Upton, winner of the Women of Influence Award. As part of her award, Donna received $1000 of vouchers thanks to Bunnings Trade New Zealand.
The Women of Influence Award acknowledged women making a significant impact in the fencing industry. Finalists were Donna Upton, a driving force in fencing education and an FCANZ Board member since 2020, and Kathy Newdick, who has contributed more than 30 years to the industry through her roles in the early days with FCANZ, and ongoing NZFC governance, administration, and event support. Donna Upton took out the award for her leadership in developing and delivering the Level 3 and Level 4 fencing qualifications, and her ongoing governance work.
Legacy Award for Lifetime Achievement
Naomi Abraham from Farmlands with Wayne Newdick, the recipient of our 2025 Legacy Award for Lifetime Achievement. Wayne received a lifetime FCANZ membership and $1000 of vouchers thanks to Farmlands Co-operative.
The evening concluded with the Legacy Award for Lifetime Achievement, one of the highest honours FCANZ can bestow.
This year, it went to Wayne Newdick, whose engineering expertise, competition leadership, and role as a co-founder of FCANZ have left an indelible mark on the industry. Wayne’s innovations in fencing tools and his ability to share knowledge have influenced generations of contractors.
FCANZ President Phil Cornelius said, “These awards recognise more than just skill — they celebrate dedication, leadership, and the willingness to give back. Every finalist and winner is making the industry stronger, and it’s a privilege to acknowledge their work.”
The prizes for the 2025 Awards were proudly supplied by Farmlands, PGG Wrightson, Bunnings, Stockade and Delfast.
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!
