About Us
Setting the StandarD
Fruehauf NZ Ltd is dedicated to delivering innovation and outstanding service for the road transport industry.
With 35 models, we offer the New Zealand’s widest range of new trailers and truck bodies, and are continuously innovating to expand this range.
Our solutions encompass:
Customised design and manufacture.
Repairs, rebuilds, and refurbishment.
Maintenance and parts service.
Advice on regulatory compliance.
Engineering-led innovation.
On the road, Fruehauf equipment compliments our customers’ pride for delivering safely, and to the highest standard.
The appearance of a Fruehauf trailer is undoubtedly impressive, but its appeal is much deeper than good looks. We are committed to ongoing research and development, and continuous improvement. The result is improved productivity and profitability for our customers.
We have service facilities in Feilding and Auckland, and offer national sales and support that includes a South Island based support operation. As part of this network, we support second-hand trailer sales.
16+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
Our History
In 1914, he designed and built the very first semi-trailer, for his sawmilling friend, towed by a Model T Ford. The business grew quickly, and the original trailer was constantly improved. One of the additions was a fifth wheel, which led to the automatic coupling of today.
From expansion across America, to Canada, South American and France, the company became a global giant of trailer manufacturing. Its brand came to New Zealand in 1969, through a licensing agreement with the Domett family, which had been manufacturing trailers in Feilding since the 1940s.
This agreement provided the New Zealand transport industry with access to world-leading trailer designs. The alloy ribbed bathtub is one of the original Fruehauf designs still in production today. It is strong and versatile with uses in road contracting, metal and fertiliser transportation.
Today Fruehauf is owned by one long-standing member of the transport industry, Jeff Mear. In 2022, Jeff celebrated thirteen years of ownership and take pride in re-establishing Fruehauf as a leader in Innovative Road Transport Equipment, Repairs and Maintenance.
The historic Fruehauf name originates from the 1890s when a young blacksmith, August Fruehauf, set up a business near Detroit.