Steel & Tube’s iconic brand, Hurricane, is one of New Zealand’s largest manufacturers and distributors of reinforcing, fencing, fence panels, wire, gates and nail products for use across primary industries and the rural construction sector. This year, Hurricane celebrates 90 years. To mark the occasion, we reflect on the brand and its place in the Steel & Tube family.
Since its establishment in 1932, Hurricane products have been built to withstand New Zealand’s harsh and unique weather conditions. The first field trial of Hurricane’s high tensile boundary fence was conducted in secret near Wanganui in February 1963. The resilience of this fencing and the way it could be erected on undulating ground proved to be outstanding and led to the biggest-ever success in fabricated farm-fence development in New Zealand. The later introduction of Hurricane deer fence established New Zealand as an exporter of market leading innovative fencing systems.
Hurricane continues to innovate, with the introduction of the Rapid Post and Boundary Fence. The Rapid Post is designed to speed up fencing and make installation easier. The revolutionary self-sprung stainless steel clip firmly holds the fencing wire in the slot, doing away with the need of tie wire. The square knot Boundary Fence brings a new dimension to our range. Designed to handle pressure from stock with performance and exceptional value in mind, it’s made for NZ conditions with longevity and durability.
“The Hurricane brand embodies the Kiwi attitude of innovation and ingenuity. While Steel & Tube manufacturers and distributes a range of products which are used in construction projects across New Zealand, a strong sense of pride comes from playing a role in supporting our primary industries which are so important to New Zealand’s economy while also representing a way of life for many New Zealanders”, says Barney Te Tai, Sales Manager, National Merchants.
As a part of the Steel & Tube family, Hurricane is part of a business which has evolved to play its part in serving our environments and communities. We are pleased to provide ongoing sales support and sponsorship to serve our communities, including MATES in Construction and Pink Shirt Day.
In a broader sense, the Hurricane brand benefits from Steel & Tube’s overall commitment to quality and sustainability. Steel & Tube has focussed on initiatives to lower our carbon footprint, these have included a focus on energy use including vehicle telematics to improve safety and driving efficiency, LED lighting, and we have also reduced waste and introduced recycling initiatives. We have also been awarded the Sustainable Steel Councils Gold Certification.
Another key facet of the Hurricane brand has been Steel & Tube’s introduction of supporting products which are well-suited to the needs of our rural communities. Most recently, Steel & Tube was pleased to bring Rooffast screws to our customers. Earlier this year, we introduced the TJEP range of nailers which are commonplace across Europe. The cordless tools offer great convenience for both rural fencing contractors and DIY-ers completing jobs around the farm.
Barney concludes: “We’d like to thank you for your support of the Hurricane brand over the past 90 years. Here’s to many more!”
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