For a century, STIHL has helped people work more efficiently in nature. From forestry and farming through to landscaping and home gardening, STIHL tools have earned a reputation around the world for durability, innovation, and performance.
Now, in 2026, STIHL celebrates an incredible milestone — 100 years in business.
At STIHL Shop Mt Maunganui, we’re proud to celebrate the legacy of a brand that has shaped the outdoor power equipment industry for generations.
The STIHL story began in 1926 when German engineer Andreas Stihl founded the company near Stuttgart. His vision was simple but revolutionary: create tools that make working in and with nature easier.
At the time, forestry work relied heavily on manual labour, requiring enormous physical effort. Andreas Stihl recognised an opportunity to improve efficiency and safety through engineering innovation. His early portable chainsaw designs transformed the forestry industry and laid the foundation for what would become one of the most recognised names in outdoor power equipment worldwide.
What started as a small workshop operation has since grown into a globally respected, family-owned company supplying professional and residential users across more than 160 countries.
The slogan “Built for Nature. Trusted since 1926.” perfectly reflects STIHL’s philosophy.
For 100 years, the company has focused on developing tools that are:
• Reliable under demanding conditions
• Comfortable and efficient to use
• Engineered for long-term performance
• Designed to improve productivity outdoors
Few brands carry the same level of trust among forestry workers, arborists, landscapers, contractors, and homeowners.
Over the decades, STIHL has continually evolved its technology while staying true to the principles that made the brand successful in the first place.
Reaching 100 years in business doesn’t happen by relying on tradition alone.
Throughout its history, STIHL has consistently invested in research, engineering, and product development to stay at the forefront of the industry. Lighter machinery, more efficient engines, improved ergonomics, lower vibration systems, and smarter safety features have all played a role in shaping modern outdoor power equipment.
Today, STIHL continues to lead with advanced battery-powered technology alongside its world-renowned petrol-powered equipment.
This dual technology approach allows users to choose tools that best suit their needs, whether that’s the long-running power of petrol or the convenience and reduced noise of battery systems.
Battery-powered outdoor equipment has rapidly evolved in recent years, and STIHL has been at the forefront of that innovation.
Modern STIHL battery tools now offer:
• Impressive run times
• Fast charging technology
• Powerful cutting performance
• Reduced maintenance requirements
• Lower operating noise
For many residential users and professionals alike, battery-powered equipment has become an increasingly practical option for everyday outdoor work.
At the same time, STIHL continues to develop high-performance petrol equipment trusted by forestry and landscaping professionals throughout New Zealand.
One of the reasons STIHL has remained so successful for 100 years is its broad appeal across industries.
Today, STIHL products are used by:
• Forestry crews
• Landscapers
• Arborists
• Farmers
• Contractors
• Lifestyle block owners
• Home gardeners
Whether it’s a professional-grade chainsaw, a commercial brushcutter, a battery hedge trimmer, or a compact lawn mower, STIHL equipment is designed with the same commitment to quality and performance.
At STIHL Shop Mt Maunganui, we’re excited to celebrate this remarkable centenary with our customers throughout Tauranga and the wider Bay of Plenty.
As Tauranga’s local STIHL specialists, we continue to support homeowners and professionals with:
• Expert product advice
• Genuine STIHL equipment
• Battery and petrol-powered solutions
Outdoor power equipment tailored to New Zealand conditions
The STIHL story has always been about helping people work smarter outdoors — and after 100 years, that commitment remains as strong as ever.
While 2026 marks an important anniversary, STIHL’s focus remains firmly on the future.
Innovation, sustainability, and engineering excellence continue to drive the company forward as it develops the next generation of outdoor power equipment.
From pioneering chainsaws in the 1920s to advanced battery systems and intelligent technology today, STIHL has spent a century helping people get the job done.
And the next chapter is only just beginning.
