Based in Wellington, Strainrite Fencing Systems lead the way as a New Zealand manufacturer, renowned for their innovation. The company designs and builds an extensive range of high-quality fencing tools and equipment.
This year marks a significant milestone for the company as it celebrates its 50th anniversary, reflecting on its journey from humble beginnings to becoming a powerhouse in agricultural equipment manufacturing in New Zealand with global distribution centres in the United Kingdom, United States, and Australia.
In 1974 Maurice Wooster acquired what was a one-person business specialising in abattoir and other meat works equipment. The company rapidly evolved, driven by a passion for innovation and a commitment to serving the needs of farmers across New Zealand. This growth led to the establishment of leading brands Runrite Abattoir Equipment, Cutrite Harvester Blades, and Strainrite Fencing Systems.
For Maurice, the biggest thing was keeping the manufacturing here in New Zealand to preserve local skills and expertise. “It’s a skill we do not want to lose because once it’s gone, it’s gone.” Many companies outsource manufacturing overseas to keep costs down. “We concentrate on the mechanisation to help reduce costs to remain competitive.” Despite this, Strainrite still employs over 60 staff members across their divisions, proudly maintaining their status as a 100% New Zealand-owned and operated entity and the sole NZ manufacturer of permanent wire strainers.
Reflecting on the company’s achievements, Maurice highlights the development of the Ratchet Handle as a proud moment “One Saturday morning I went into the workshop, and two hours later I had it designed and manufactured. I wanted to reduce farmers’ frustrations and break away from making brand-only gear. Our ratchet handle is a testament to that. It’s a simple product, yet compatible with all brands of wire strainers, not just our own.”
“Another proud moment was seeing a Strainrite wire jenny for the first time at an NZ fencing competition. Only one team out of ten had our gear, but it was a proud moment for me.” Nowadays, Strainrite is one of the most popular brands of tools and equipment seen at national fencing competitions. Maurice adds, “We receive considerable support from contractors and competitors when we transform their ideas into products they have confidence in and depend on.”
With a focus on product development and innovation, Strainrite prides themselves on delivering market-leading fencing products that withstand New Zealand’s tough and demanding farming elements. Their innovation shines when you see their Activator Strap, an International Innovations Award-winning new system for electric gate activators. This unique post-termination insulator enables multiple gate handle connections, eliminates protruding activator plates, and saves time and money with single strap installation, all while reducing potential harm to livestock.
Behind product development lies a team of dedicated engineers and designers committed to pushing the boundaries of fencing technology. Through rigorous testing and continuous feedback, Strainrite strives to meet the ever-changing needs of their customers and deliver solutions that redefine industry standards. Maurice remains humble despite the brand’s growth and success over the years, emphasising the company’s commitment to serving the industry above all else stating “My policy is to service the industry, for me, it’s not about anything else.”
Strainrite stays ahead of the game with their fast and forward-thinking ideas. In 2017 their sustainability efforts included the early adoption of cardboard packaging – a testament to their commitment to environmental responsibility. Keeping sustainability at the forefront, Strainrite acquired two new machines last year to further enhance the efficiency of their pigtail production while maintaining a continuous recycling process for water throughout their plastic manufacturing.
As Maurice expresses his gratitude, it’s evident that the success of Strainrite Fencing Systems is not just measured in milestones and achievements, but in the enduring relationships forged with customers and stakeholders. “We want to thank you for all your ongoing support over the last 50 years. We wouldn’t be where we are today without you.”
To learn more about Strainrite’s range of fencing tools and equipment, visit www.strainrite.co.nz
Supplied by: Strainrite Fencing Systems
Published in WIRED issue 74/September 2024 by Fencing Contractors Association NZ
