Before and After: Building a Custom Fence for the Little Highland Tavern
- Diggerworx & Landscaping
- Jul 31
- 4 min read
Every fencing project is different. Some are built for privacy around family homes, while others are designed to complement a unique outdoor space. Recently, we had the opportunity to build a custom timber fence and gate for the Little Highland Tavern, creating a defined outdoor area that matched the character of this one-of-a-kind rural attraction.
I'm Allan, owner and operator of Digger Worx Invercargill. In this project, we handled everything from the site preparation through to the completed fence installation, showing how proper groundwork makes all the difference to the finished result.
If you're a homeowner in Invercargill looking for a new fence, Digger Worx Invercargill is here to help. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote, and let's build a fence that's made to last in Southland conditions.
Starting with the Fence
Before any ground preparation took place, we started by building the fence that would define the space.
Establishing the fence line first meant we could clearly set the boundaries before completing the surrounding groundworks. It also ensured everything else, including the gravel patio area, would line up neatly with the finished fence.
We carefully measured the layout, positioned every post accurately, and built a traditional post and rail fence that suited the rustic style of the tavern.
The natural timber finish complements the dark exterior of the building while maintaining the open countryside feel of the property.
Every post was securely installed to create a fence that will stand up to Southland's changing weather conditions while providing a strong, attractive boundary.
Building the Entrance
One of the standout features of this project was the custom-built double farm gate.
Rather than installing a standard gate, we built one specifically for the entrance to match the fence and the overall appearance of the tavern.
The finished gate creates an inviting entrance while providing practical access whenever required. Matching the gate to the fence gives the entire project a clean, consistent appearance that suits the property's rural setting.
Preparing the Ground for the Tavern Entrance
With the fencing complete, we turned our attention to the area directly in front of the tavern.
The existing ground needed preparation before it could become a usable outdoor space. Using our CASE CX26C mini excavator, we excavated and levelled the area to create a stable foundation.
Proper site preparation is important for projects like this. Removing soft ground and creating an even surface helps prevent uneven settling and keeps the finished area looking tidy over time.
Installing the Gravel Patio Area
Once the ground had been prepared, we spread and levelled fresh gravel across the front of the tavern.
The gravel creates a practical surface that is easy to maintain while improving drainage during Southland's wetter months. It also provides a welcoming entrance that complements both the building and the new fencing.
With the fence already in place, the gravel could be finished neatly against the boundary, giving the whole entrance a polished appearance.
The Finished Result
The finished project has completely transformed the entrance to the Little Highland Tavern. With the new fence defining the space and the freshly prepared gravel area out front, the whole property now feels more inviting, functional, and ready to be enjoyed.
Projects like this show that it's often the smaller details that make the biggest difference. Starting with solid fence construction and following it up with proper site preparation creates a tidy, long-lasting result that not only looks great but also performs well over time.
If you're planning a new fence, need your section cleared before building, or want help preparing your property for your next project, Digger Worx Invercargill can take care of the whole job from start to finish.
We provide residential fence building, site clearing, earthmoving, drainage, and land preparation services across Invercargill and Southland, with practical solutions designed to suit local properties and conditions.
FAQs
How much does fence building cost in Invercargill?
The cost depends on the fence length, height, materials, ground conditions, and whether site preparation is required. We provide free, no-obligation quotes tailored to your property.
Do I need to prepare my property before building a fence?
Yes. Clearing vegetation, removing old fencing, levelling the ground, and marking the fence line all help create a stronger, longer-lasting fence. Digger Worx can complete the site preparation before installing your fence.
Can Digger Worx handle both site preparation and fence installation?
Yes. We provide complete residential fence building services, including site clearing, land preparation, post hole digging, and professional fence installation throughout Invercargill and Southland.
How long does it take to build a residential fence?
Most residential fence projects are completed within several days to around one to two weeks, depending on the size of the project, weather conditions, site access, and whether any preparation work is required.
Why should I hire a professional fence builder in Invercargill?
A professional fence builder ensures your fence is built correctly, with proper foundations and materials suited to Southland's weather conditions. Professional installation helps improve durability, appearance, and the overall lifespan of your fence.
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