Robinson Contracting Ltd is a family-owned business based in the “Bread Capital” Manaia, South Taranaki. We offer rural, industrial fencing, and property management Taranaki-wide.
Tyler Waitere, 22 years old
New to the game
Making moves within the industry
We have a long history of fencing and contracting within the family, starting back in the 1950s.
Five generations strong. We are still contracting for the same farming families we were working for back in the 50s and 60s.
We are a Step Mum and daughter duo: Mama does all the admin and I’m out there doing all the hard work on the fence line. My Grandfather Clayton, is also in the mix. He’s there to share his knowledge and make sure we are doing things correctly.
Growing up I always enjoyed physical work and the outdoors. Before fencing, I was working in the hospitality industry, managing a fancy restaurant, bar, and cafe. But I wanted a change. It was only recently I was introduced to the fencing industry.
The most difficult challenge I face at the moment is the physical and technical side of the industry, having to transition from hospitality to fencing is no easy feat. But I’m learning new things every day, giving me the confidence to strive and thrive. I’ve got this!!
One of the best parts of our job is giving back to our community whenever we can. Community projects and working bees at our local school are all part of our kaupapa.
I enjoy fencing because I’m working with and for my family and it’s had a positive effect on my health and fitness. I’m feeling fit and strong.
I’ve learned to use the ‘tools of the trade.’ Power tools, the thumper. I’m gaining new skills – driving tractors and machinery. I’m enhancing my leadership skills – bossing the old man around haha. But the biggest thing I’m learning is enduring the weather!!! Goodness, it’s been a hot summer. All in a day’s work, all part of the fun.
The next steps for me will be sitting my forklift license and truck license.
To other wāhine thinking about joining the industry: Fencing is not for the faint-hearted. You have to be tough. And you have to endure the conditions.
It definitely suits women that enjoy being outdoors. The fencing industry is very male-dominated, but we as Wahine are strong, resilient, and hardworking. We are more than capable to work in the industry too!!
Jenelle says: Tyler was always the kid that was helping her Dad outside, organising her siblings, and bossing everyone around. She has great initiative and is a quick problem solver, so it doesn’t surprise me at all that she is enjoying the role she has within the business. We are here for her and will support her to be successful in the industry.
Clayton says: She just picks things up so quickly! And before you know it, she’s bossing everyone around. She’s one of the best workers I’ve had.
Because it’s such a male dominant industry, she’s turning heads! People are intrigued by having a young woman as part of the staff. But she just takes it in her stride and shows them what she’s made of. We are proud of her.
Article supplied by Robinson Contracting
