Fencing, Balustrades & Gates | Nelson & Tasman

You want a fence that looks right on day one and still looks right in twenty years. Most fencing problems start underground, not above it — posts set in the wrong soil, drainage ignored, slopes left unlevelled. That's where other contractors fall short, and where Kiwi Excavations doesn't. We fix the ground first, then build the fence on top of it.

Why fencing needs earthworks expertise

A fence is only as good as its foundation. Posts set in poor ground lean within months. Inadequate drainage causes rot. Uneven terrain creates gaps and weakness. Because we're earthworks specialists first, we understand soil conditions, drainage requirements, and how to create level runs on challenging Nelson and Tasman sites — knowledge that most fencing-only contractors simply don't have.

Fencing solutions we deliver

Pool safety fencing

Pool fencing isn't optional – it's legally required and morally essential. We install compliant pool barriers including glass panels with stainless steel posts, aluminum tube fencing systems, and mesh options for temporary pools. Every installation meets or exceeds council requirements with proper heights, gaps, and self-closing gates. We coordinate with pool installers to ensure fencing integrates seamlessly with your pool area design.

Timber fencing

Classic timber fencing suits Nelson-Tasman's natural environment. Options include:

• Vertical board: Privacy and wind protection, various heights available
• Horizontal slat: Modern aesthetic with adjustable privacy gaps
• Post and rail: Rural charm for lifestyle properties
• Picket fencing: Traditional front yard appeal
• Trellis tops: Adding height without blocking light

We use H4 treated posts (H5 for in-ground), proper concrete footings, and quality fixings that prevent premature failure.

Steel & alloy fencing

Modern metal fencing offers durability with minimal maintenance:

• Aluminum slat systems: Powder-coated, won't rust, huge colour range
• Steel tube fencing: Security without fortress appearance
• Corrugated iron: Cost-effective privacy with industrial appeal
• Custom steel fabrication: Unique designs to match architectural features

Metal fencing particularly suits coastal properties where timber struggles with salt air.

Panel & sectional fencing

Pre-made panel systems offer fast installation and consistent appearance. We install concrete panel systems for acoustic barriers, composite panels combining timber look with durability, and modular systems allowing easy height adjustments. Perfect for subdivisions wanting uniform appearance or commercial properties needing quick installation.

Balustrades & safety barriers

Balustrades protect drops while maintaining views. We install:

• Glass balustrades for decks and stairs
• Wire rope systems for minimal visual impact
• Aluminum/steel rail systems
• Pool-compliant barriers for elevated pools

All balustrades meet building code requirements for height, gaps, and loadings.

Security & mesh fencing

Commercial and industrial properties need serious security. We provide chain mesh with barbed/razor wire options, welded mesh panels for higher security, automated gate integration, and anti-climb designs. For schools and sports facilities, we install appropriate height barriers, ball-stop netting, and spectator safety fencing.

Custom & specialty fencing

Your fencing vision might not fit standard categories. Our steel fabrication capabilities mean we can create custom designs matching architectural features, artistic panels for feature walls, mixed material combinations, and unique gate designs. We work with your plans or help develop concepts.

Complete fencing installation process

1. Site preparation excellence

Our earthworks expertise ensures proper foundation. We establish accurate boundary lines, clear vegetation and obstacles, level runs where needed, and address drainage issues. For retaining situations, we coordinate retaining wall construction with fence installation.

2. Professional post installation

Posts determine fence longevity. We:

• Excavate proper depth holes (minimum 600mm for standard fences)
• Use quality concrete for post setting
• Ensure accurate spacing and alignment
• Allow proper curing time before mounting panels
• Install drainage in post holes where needed

3. Quality construction standards

Details matter in fencing. We use galvanized fixings preventing rust streaks, maintain consistent heights following ground contours, properly seal cut ends preventing moisture ingress, and install gates with quality hinges and latches. The result: fences that look professional and last.

Challenging sites we excel at

Nelson-Tasman's terrain creates fencing challenges we solve daily:

• Steep slopes: Stepped or raked installation following contours
• Rocky ground: Rock breaking for post holes
• Soft/wet areas: Extended footings or alternative foundations
• Coastal exposure: Material selection for salt/wind resistance
• Boundary complications: Working with surveyors for accurate placement

Sports & recreational fencing

Beyond property fencing, we install:

• Tennis court fencing with proper heights and gates
• Cricket practice nets with quality netting
• Soccer/rugby goal nets and surrounds
• Basketball court enclosures
• School playground fencing

These installations require specific heights, mesh sizes, and safety considerations we understand.

Working with your complete project

Fencing often accompanies other work. We coordinate with:

• Driveway construction for entrance gates
• Hardscaping projects for integrated design
• Drainage installation preventing water issues
• Pool installers for compliant safety barriers

Investment guide

Fencing costs vary significantly by type and site conditions. For detailed pricing on all our fencing options, including specifications and images, visit our comprehensive pricing guide.

Here's a quick overview of our pricing ranges:

• Basic timber: From $185+GST per metre (1.2m high, 2 rail)
• Aluminum slat: $200-350 per metre
• Glass pool fencing: $400-600 per metre
• Security mesh: $100-200 per metre
• Custom steel: $300-800+ per metre

Add 20-50% for difficult sites requiring extensive groundwork. Gates, automation, and special features priced separately.

Maintenance & longevity

Different fencing materials require different care:

• Timber: Regular staining/painting, 15-25 year lifespan
• Steel: Minimal maintenance if galvanized/powder-coated, 25+ years
• Aluminum: Virtually maintenance-free, 30+ years
• Glass: Regular cleaning only, indefinite lifespan

We provide maintenance guidelines ensuring maximum fence life.

Rural & lifestyle considerations

While we focus on residential and commercial fencing, we handle lifestyle block requirements across the Tasman District — including Motueka, Golden Bay, and rural Richmond properties. Stock-proof boundaries, shelter belts, and lifestyle block subdivision fencing are all within scope. For specialised agricultural fencing, we partner with rural fencing contractors.

Common questions

Ready to secure your boundaries?

From pool safety compliance to complete property perimeters, quality fencing adds security, privacy, and value. Our combination of earthworks expertise and fencing experience ensures your fence stands strong for decades. Whether replacing old fencing or starting fresh, we deliver professional results.

Browse our complete pricing guide to explore all available options and get an idea of costs for your project.