About Donnelly Trailers
Donnelly Trailers have been manufacturing high-quality agricultural trailers since 1978. The company was established in 1977 by the Donnelly family in Augher, County Tyrone, Northern Ireland, and remains a family-run business today.
With over four decades of experience, Donnelly has become synonymous with robust construction, smart design, and reliable performance. Their trailers are widely respected across Ireland, the UK, and New Zealand. The dedicated workforce at Donnelly Trailers use modern production techniques and rigorous quality checks to ensure every trailer meets high specifications and CE marking requirements.
CE marking ensures that all Donnelly Trailers comply with essential European health, safety, and environmental protection standards. This commitment guarantees customers a trailer that is safe, reliable, and built to last.
Why Donnelly Trailers Suit New Zealand Farming
New Zealand farming conditions are unique, often combining hilly terrain, long distances, variable weather, and a mix of crops and livestock. Farmers need trailers that can handle heavy loads, rough paddocks, and multiple seasonal tasks without constant maintenance or downtime. Donnelly Trailers are designed specifically with these challenges in mind, offering a combination of strength, versatility, and reliability that makes them an ideal fit for NZ operations.
Farmers and contractors in New Zealand rely on Donnelly Trailers for a wide variety of tasks, including:
- Transporting silage and forage crops: Efficiently move large volumes of silage from fields to storage, even in challenging terrain.
- Moving bales: Switch between silage and bale transport quickly to meet daily farm needs.
- Hauling bulk materials: Dirt, gravel, feed, and fertiliser can be transported easily with a durable trailer capable of heavy loads.
- General farm work: Use the trailer for earthmoving, fence work, and other operational tasks that require a flexible, reliable piece of equipment.
The multi-purpose design of Donnelly Trailers reduces the need for multiple specialised trailers, streamlining operations and cutting costs. Farmers can adapt a single trailer to different tasks throughout the year, making it a practical investment for busy farms.
What Makes Donnelly Trailers Stand Out
Donnelly Trailers are more than just standard farm trailers—they are engineered for performance and built for longevity. The combination of smart design and high-quality materials ensures they can handle New Zealand’s demanding agricultural conditions with ease.
Key features include:
- 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose Design: Function as a silage trailer, flat deck trailer, or bulk/dump trailer. This versatility allows one trailer to meet multiple needs.
- Robust Build: Heavy-duty 3mm drop-sides and a 6mm steel floor give the trailer the strength to carry large loads safely and efficiently.
- High-Speed Running Gear: Designed to move efficiently across farm tracks and public roads, reducing travel time between tasks.
- Reliable Braking Systems: A 4-wheel braking system ensures stability and safety, even with full loads on steep or uneven terrain.
- Customisable Options: Add bale extensions, dirt sides, or other accessories to tailor the trailer to specific farm operations and seasonal requirements.
These features make Donnelly Trailers dependable and easy to integrate into daily farm operations. Farmers can rely on them for consistency, safety, and maximum productivity across all farm tasks.
How Donnelly Trailers Improve Farm Efficiency
Donnelly Trailers are designed to maximise productivity while minimising costs. Their multi-purpose design and robust construction allow farmers to complete tasks faster and with fewer resources.
Key ways Donnelly Trailers improve efficiency:
- Reduced Equipment Needs: One trailer replaces the need for several specialised trailers, cutting both upfront costs and ongoing maintenance.
- Fewer Trips: Large load capacities mean fewer journeys are required to move materials, saving fuel, time, and labour.
- All-Year Use: Trailers can switch between silage, bales, or bulk material quickly, ensuring they are productive in every season.
- Durability: Built to withstand New Zealand’s tough conditions, Donnelly Trailers require minimal repairs and provide long-term reliability.
- Safe Transport: Strong construction and reliable braking systems protect operators, livestock, and cargo, reducing risk of accidents.
By improving efficiency, Donnelly Trailers allow farmers to better manage workloads, meet seasonal deadlines, and maintain productivity across diverse farming operations.
How to Choose the Right Donnelly Trailer for Your Farm
Selecting the right Donnelly Trailer requires understanding your farm’s specific needs. Consider the following factors to make the best choice:
- Load Capacity: Smaller farms may find a 14-tonne trailer sufficient, while medium operations often choose the 16-tonne model. Large farms and professional contractors may require 18-tonne or 20-tonne trailers to handle heavier loads.
- Trailer Length and Width: Ensure the trailer fits your farm roads, gates, and storage areas. Longer trailers provide more capacity but require more space to manoeuvre.
- Task Versatility: Assess how often you will need to switch between silage, bales, or bulk material. Frequent switching calls for a trailer with easy conversion features.
- Tyres and Running Gear: Match your trailer’s tyres and running gear to your farm’s terrain, load requirements, and the speed you need to move materials safely.
- Support and Service: Work with a local distributor, such as Brownrigg Agri Gear, to ensure you have access to parts, maintenance, and expert advice whenever needed.
Evaluating these factors ensures you select a trailer that fits your operational needs, maximises efficiency, and provides a reliable long-term investment for your farm.
Donnelly Trailer Models Available in New Zealand
14-Tonne Donnelly Trailer
The 14-tonne Donnelly Trailer is a versatile option for small to mid-size farms.
Specifications:
- Length: 4.9 metres
- Width: 2.65 metres
- Silage bin capacity: 30 cubic metres
- Dirt sides capacity: 7.4 cubic metres
- Tyres: 560/45R22.5 radial wheels
Key features:
- 14,000 kg loading capacity
- 3-in-1 multi-purpose functionality
- Sturdy 3mm drop sides and 6mm floor
- High-speed 10 stud running gear
- Reliable 4-wheel braking system
- Optional 1,100mm bale extension
Benefits:
- Streamlines farm operations with one trailer
- Reduces the need for multiple trailers
- Ensures safe transport with robust construction
- Long-term investment due to durability and resale value
16-Tonne Donnelly Trailer
The 16-tonne model is ideal for mid-size operations or contractors.
Specifications:
- Length: 5.5 metres
- Width: 2.65 metres
- Silage bin capacity: 34 cubic metres
- Dirt sides capacity: 8.8 cubic metres
- Tyres: 650/50R22.5 radial wheels
Key features:
- 16,000 kg loading capacity
- 3-in-1 multi-purpose use
- Heavy-duty 3mm drop sides and 6mm floor
- 10 stud high-speed running gear
- 4-wheel braking system
- Optional bale extension
Benefits:
- Supports a wide range of farming tasks
- Handles medium to heavy loads efficiently
- Provides durability for long-term use
- Versatile enough for contractors needing reliable performance
18-Tonne Donnelly Trailer
For larger farms and heavier workloads, the 18-tonne Donnelly Trailer is designed for maximum capacity and strength.
Specifications:
- Length: 6 metres
- Width: 2.65 metres
- Silage bin capacity: 36.5 cubic metres
- Dirt sides capacity: 9.5 cubic metres
- Tyres: 650/50R22.5 radial wheels
Key features:
- 18,000 kg loading capacity
- 3-in-1 multi-purpose trailer
- Robust 3mm sides and 6mm floor
- High-speed running gear for efficiency
- 4-wheel braking system for safety
- Optional bale extension
Benefits:
- Handles demanding workloads with ease
- Reduces trips with higher capacity
- Ideal for large-scale farms and contractors
- Durable construction withstands tough conditions
20-Tonne Donnelly Trailer
The 20-tonne Donnelly Trailer is the largest and most capable option, designed for heavy-duty use.
Specifications:
- Length: 6.5 metres
- Width: 2.65 metres
- Silage bin capacity: 42 cubic metres
- Dirt sides capacity: 10.4 cubic metres
- Tyres: 710/45R22.5 radial wheels
Key features:
- Exceptional 20,000 kg load capacity
- 3-in-1 multi-purpose design
- Strong steel floor and sides for durability
- High-speed running gear
- Reliable 4-wheel braking system
- Optional bale extension
Benefits:
- Perfect for high-volume farms
- Handles the heaviest silage, bales, and bulk loads
- Reduces the need for multiple trailers
- Provides long-term reliability for contractors and farmers
Additional Features and Considerations
Versatility:
- Easily convert between silage, flat deck, and bulk trailer
- Saves time, money, and storage space by replacing multiple trailers with one unit
Durability:
- Built with 3mm drop-side thickness and 6mm floor
- Designed for heavy loads and challenging NZ conditions
- High-quality running gear and braking system for safe operation
Efficiency:
- Streamlined operations with multi-purpose design
- High load capacity reduces trips
- Strong construction ensures consistent performance over years of use
Support in New Zealand:
- Donnelly Trailers are supplied and supported by Brownrigg Agri Gear
- Local advice, parts, and service ensure trailers are kept in top condition
- Models suited to small farms, large farms, and contracting operations
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Donnelly Trailers different from local New Zealand brands?
Donnelly brings over 40 years of Northern Irish engineering heritage to the Pacific. While many local trailers are built for one specific purpose, the Donnelly design is refined as a true 3-in-1 system. The ability to switch between a silage bin, a flatbed and a dump trailer without compromising the structural integrity of the chassis is a result of decades of research and development in the demanding European market.
How does the multi-purpose conversion process work?
The conversion is designed to be straightforward and efficient. By removing the silage bin or the dirt sides, the trailer becomes a high-strength flatbed. This allows farmers to use the same piece of equipment for silage in the summer, metal work in the autumn and hay or bale transport in the winter. This versatility ensures the trailer is a productive asset all year round rather than sitting idle in a shed.
Are these trailers built to handle the heavy, wet soils often found in NZ?
Yes, the specification of the running gear and tyres is a major focus for Donnelly Trailers in New Zealand. By using large radial wheels, such as the 710/45r22.5 on the 20-tonne model, the weight is spread over a larger surface area. This high flotation reduces soil compaction and ensures that the trailer can perform in soft or wet conditions where inferior models might bog down.
What are the benefits of the 10 Stud High-Speed running gear?
Contractors often have to travel long distances between different blocks of land. The 10 Stud High-Speed axles are designed to handle the heat and stress of road travel at modern tractor speeds. Combined with a powerful 4-wheel braking system, this setup provides the stopping power and stability required to transport up to 20,000 kg of material safely on New Zealand roads.
Can I customise my Donnelly Trailer?
Yes. Optional features such as bale extensions, dirt sides, and other accessories can be added to tailor the trailer to your specific farm requirements.
What is a Bullet Tarp System and can I add it to my Donnelly Trailer? Yes, the Bullet Tarp system is a highly recommended customisation for Donnelly trailers in the New Zealand market. It is an automated or semi-automated covering system designed to secure loads quickly and safely. This is particularly beneficial for contractors moving silage or bulk materials on public roads, as it ensures compliance with load-securing regulations while saving the operator time compared to manual sheeting.
Can the trailers be used for heavy earthmoving?
While they are exceptionally versatile for agricultural use, the addition of the dirt sides makes them very capable for earthmoving tasks. With a 6mm floor, they can handle the impact of loading metal and soil, making them a popular choice for farmers who do their own track maintenance or development work.
What is the significance of the 6mm floor and 3mm drop-sides?
Durability is the core of the Donnelly brand. A 6mm floor provides the structural rigidity needed to handle heavy bulk materials like dirt or gravel without warping. The 3mm drop-sides offer a balance of strength and manageable weight, ensuring that the trailer remains robust enough for industrial use while maintaining an efficient payload-to-weight ratio.
How does owning a Donnelly Trailer improve farm profitability?
The primary financial benefit is the reduction in capital expenditure. Instead of purchasing and maintaining three separate trailers, you invest in one high-quality Donnelly unit. This leads to lower long-term maintenance costs, fewer registration fees and reduced storage requirements. Additionally, the increased capacity of models like the 18 or 20-tonne units means fewer trips and lower fuel consumption per tonne of material moved.
Where can I purchase Donnelly Trailers and get after-sales support?
Brownrigg Agri Gear is the primary contact for Donnelly Trailers in New Zealand. We provide expert advice on model selection and ensure that you have access to genuine parts and technical support. Having a local partner means that your investment is protected by people who understand the local agricultural sector and the importance of minimising downtime.
Choosing a Donnelly Trailer in New Zealand
Donnelly Trailers offer a combination of durability, flexibility, and capacity that makes them ideal for New Zealand farms. They provide:
- Long-lasting performance for tough conditions
- High versatility with 3-in-1 functionality
- Reliable safety features for secure transport
- Local support and parts availability through Brownrigg Agri Gear
Whether you are upgrading your current trailer or adding a new unit, Donnelly Trailers provide a smart investment for efficiency, productivity, and long-term reliability.
For expert advice, specifications, and availability, contact Brownrigg Agri Gear to find the right Donnelly Trailer for your farm or contracting business in New Zealand.
Get a Donnelly Trailer from Brownrigg Agri Gear
Brownrigg Agri Gear is the trusted New Zealand distributor for Donnelly Trailers, offering expert advice, sales, and ongoing support for farmers and contractors. With years of experience in supplying agricultural equipment across New Zealand, Brownrigg ensures that every trailer delivered meets your farm’s specific needs.
Why choose Brownrigg Agri Gear:
- Local Expertise: Their team understands the unique challenges of NZ farming and can recommend the right Donnelly Trailer model for your operation.
- Full Support: From initial consultation to after-sales service, Brownrigg provides parts, maintenance advice, and troubleshooting to keep your trailer performing at its best.
- Reliable Supply: Brownrigg ensures timely delivery of Donnelly Trailers and accessories, reducing downtime and keeping your farm running smoothly.
- Trusted Reputation: With a strong presence in the NZ agricultural sector, Brownrigg has built a reputation for quality service and dependable equipment supply.
Choosing Brownrigg Agri Gear means you’re getting more than a trailer—you’re getting a partner who can help you maximise efficiency, productivity, and longevity from your Donnelly Trailer.
How to Contact Brownrigg Agri Gear
Getting in touch with Brownrigg Agri Gear is easy. Their team is ready to provide advice, answer questions, and help you select the right Donnelly Trailer for your farm.
Contact Details:
- Address: 768 Pirongia Rd, Te Awamutu 3876, New Zealand
- Phone: 021942125
- Email: gavin@brownriggagrigear.co.nz
- Website:brownriggagrigear.co.nz
You can also visit their showroom to view the range of Donnelly Trailers in person. Whether you’re looking for a 14-tonne, 16-tonne, 18-tonne, or 20-tonne model, the Brownrigg team can guide you through specifications, features, and optional extras to ensure you get the trailer that best suits your needs.
Reach out today to discuss your farm requirements, arrange a demonstration, or request a quote for a Donnelly Trailer in New Zealand.
