Good fencing keeps stock in, defines boundaries, and protects plantings. The right choice depends on what you are containing, your terrain, and your budget.
Common fencing types
**Post-and-wire** is the most common rural fence in New Zealand. It is versatile, relatively affordable, and suits most stock. Posts are typically spaced 3–5 metres apart with 4–7 wires.
**Electric fencing** is cost-effective for temporary or semi-permanent paddocks. It is lighter to build but requires a working energiser and regular checks. It suits cattle and horses but is less effective for sheep without careful design.
**Post-and-rail** looks attractive and suits lifestyle-block entrances, driveways, and horse paddocks. It is more expensive and requires maintenance, but it is robust and visually appealing.
**Deer fencing** uses higher, tighter mesh and is specialist work. If you run deer or want to exclude deer from plantings, talk to a fencing contractor who understands the requirements.
Nelson–Tasman considerations
- Hill country around Upper Moutere, Dovedale, and the Golden Bay coast often needs closer post spacing and deeper-set posts.
- Coastal sites near Māpua and Tasman may need higher-grade treated timber due to salt exposure.
- Wind exposure on ridgelines can put extra load on fences — talk to your contractor about bracing.
When to call a fencing contractor
- You are bringing new stock onto the property
- Storm or wind damage has broken posts or wires
- Boundary fences need replacing for legal or stock-safety reasons
- You are subdividing paddocks
- You need deer fencing or specialist netting
Questions to ask a fencing contractor
- What types of fencing do you work with most often?
- Do you source and treat your own posts, or use pre-treated materials?
- Can you handle sloping or hill-country sites?
- What is your typical lead time and minimum job size?
- Do you provide a written quote and timeline?