Fencing skills for your farm team

12 February 2026

Fencing performs a vital role on farm and a new short training programme from Primary ITO ensures farm staff have the necessary skills to look after fencing requirements.

The four-month Limited Credit Programme (Level 2) focuses on the basics of fencing and can be completed any time of year. It covers identifying and repairing faults, installing temporary fences, assisting with key tasks when erecting new fences, and identifying and maintaining components and tools required. It is ideal for people new to farming, or those wanting to upskill specifically on fencing. 

Dairy farmer and Primary ITO sector manager Marianne Awburn says the training is flexible, so farm staff can learn the skills that suit their farm and fencing set up.

“Fencing has always been a key skill in agriculture – keeping animals contained ensures the safety of people and animals, both on and off the farm! It also allows us to manage feeding and ensure our pasture is protected during the regrowth period. 

“We have added more variety to our fencing training so learners can choose to learn the skills that suit their needs. For example, instead of learning about wooden battens for fencing, learners can now choose a unit on setting up, taking down and storing reels instead.” 

Marianne adds that most farm owners and managers already have the skills to teach their workers what they need to know.  

“The learner workbooks and assessment resources help guide the training on farm.” 

Upon successful completion of the training, the unit credits are added to the learner’s record of learning with the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA). 

To register your interest in this programme, fill in the form below and a local Training Adviser will be in touch, or click here for more information. 

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