
Our History
EST. 1955
Gisborne Blacksmith & Springmaker
The business, J.F.Breingan & Son, was established in 1955 by Jack Breingan when he realized there was a need for an automotive spring-maker in Gisborne, New Zealand. Jack was a Farrier Blacksmith, who in World War II was a gunsmith in the armory. In the 1960s, the business flourished and Jack designed trailers, horse floats and caravans from the workshop where all components were made in house.
As a keen fisherman Jack turned his skills to designing improved components for boats and trailers. He designed a range of anchors and even produced a short style of fishing rod with a wound spring in the middle to compensate for the shortened length.


1975
Jack Retires & Ray Takes Over
When Jack retired in 1975, his eldest son, Ray, took over the running of the business. Ray Breingan, a well-known motorbike racer and bike builder, added another dimension to the business. He had recently returned from England where he had raced and built bikes and racing frames for motor GP riders. In the 1990s when classic bike racing became popular Ray built replica 1960s and 1970s motorbikes. Like his Father Jack, Ray had a passion for improving designs. Unfortunately, he is no longer with us.
2013
Peter Continues the Family Tradition
In 2013 Jack’s younger son Peter continued the family tradition and currently runs the business supplying farming products such as plowing and cultivating blades and springs. As a qualified toolmaker, Peter is adding his own skills to the business and also reviving products that both Jack and Ray developed.
​
Today JF Breingan has created a brand “BlacksmithFactory.co.nz” that offer the traditional automotive spring services, vehicle load strengthening and farm equipment but also manufacturing Vintage Industrial Furniture and french bistro chairs.
