This fence was built in the hills behind Wellington in 2006. It is typical of North Island fences, with five wooden battens between each pair of posts, and seven wires. Earlier fences would have used barbed wire for the top, and sometimes also for the third wire. Because it can damage pelts, barbed wire has become increasingly less common. This fenceline was graded before the fence was put up, to make a more level line and do away with rises and hollows, which cause extra strain. The fence runs straight up the hill, making it easier to erect and maintain, and less likely to be affected by landslips or rock falls.
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Te Ara - The Encyclopedia of New Zealand
by Melanie Lovell-Smith
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