This article was first published in the Raglan Chronicle Magazine, November 2026 issue (page 17). Republished with credit to the Raglan Chronicle.
After briefly putting Harty’s Fishing & Hardware on the market, owners Richard and Wendy have decided to stay put. With plans to expand their range and introduce new services, we caught up with Richard and Wendy Hart to find out what’s next for the local store.
How long have you been in business and what do you enjoy most about running the local fishing and hardware outlet?
Rich and I have owned Harty’s Fishing & Hardware for around six years. What we enjoy most is the people. We’ve met so many wonderful locals and visitors, and we love being part of the Raglan community.
There’s always something different happening in the shop. One minute we’re talking fishing, the next we’re helping someone find what they need for a job around home. It keeps us on our toes!
A few months ago, you contemplated selling the business. How did you come to the decision to hold on to it?
We did consider selling and slowing things down a little, but then that’s not Richard and Wendy’s style! We wanted to look at what the next chapter might look like for us.
We had Harty’s listed for less than two months before we realised we had something far too good to pass on just yet. We’ve put a lot into the business and still enjoy being part of the community. We feel there’s more we want to do here.
What are the strengths of the business and what is unique about your store and what you offer?
Harty’s brings fishing and hardware together under one roof, with friendly service and practical advice. Rich’s fishing knowledge is a real strength, whether someone needs help choosing gear, tying knots or spooling a reel.
Matt also has extensive experience in plumbing and all things trade-related, not to mention our growing garden area, with plants and decorative pots.
We’re a locally owned business, and we understand that sometimes people just need a hand working out what will do the job. We’re always happy to have a chat and help where we can.
Who are your typical customers?
We have a great mix of locals, keen fishers, tradies, families and visitors to Raglan. Some come in for fishing gear before heading out on the water, while others are looking for supplies for a project at home or at their holiday place.
Who’s in your Harty’s team and what makes it work so well?
Rich and I are supported by our team, who help keep the shop running and look after our customers. Everyone brings their own strengths, and we all pitch in wherever needed. A good sense of humour helps too!
Paul, Julie and Matt have been part of our Harty’s journey for the last six years and have been instrumental in making Harty’s the success it is today. We couldn’t have done it without them.
I hear you’re looking for a fishing superstar to join the team. What credentials are you seeking in a candidate?
Fishing knowledge is important, particularly experience using a spooling machine and tying specialised knots. We’re looking for someone who loves fishing and enjoys helping people, but a friendly attitude and willingness to get stuck in are just as important.
We are after a fishing guru!
What exciting new plans do you have for summer and 2027?
We’re looking forward to a busy summer and continuing to build on what we offer at Harty’s.
We’re exploring ways to make shopping with us easier online, alongside our fishing and spooling services. We’re also extending our outdoor yard and garden range, and introducing Airbnb linen and kitchen packages to help holiday homeowners during the busy summer periods. We’re always looking into new ideas and opportunities to broaden the range, so watch this space!
Source: Raglan Chronicle Magazine, Issue November 2026, p. 17.
