There’s a standout memory my old boss has of the years I spent working on his Canterbury farm. In it, I’m balanced precariously atop a 2m deer fence, having once again failed to work the dark magic ...

Perhaps the most common and simplest fencing tool is the chain wire strainer, invented by New Zealand engineer EE Hayes more than 100 years ago. The Hayes brand is still sold, as are other designs.

Do it properly and a livestock fence can give as many as 20 years of trouble-free service. James Andrews spent the day with champion fencing contractor Mike Ford to see how it should be done. Almost ...