Frequently
asked questions.

What areas do you service?

We provide IT services throughout Palmerston North and the wider Manawatu region. We also offer remote support for many software, email, and device issues.

Do you offer same-day service?

Yes, we offer same-day service for urgent IT issues when scheduling allows. Contact us to check current availability for onsite or remote support.

What are your operating hours?

We're open Monday to Friday 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM, and Saturday and Sunday 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM. Evening and weekend support is charged at the same standard rates, with no after-hours surcharge. Urgent help outside these hours depends on availability.

How much do computer repairs cost?

On-site support is $75/hr and remote support is $50/hr, with a minimum first-hour charge and full hourly increments. For a dropped-off device, a $50 diagnostic fee applies only if we disclose it before opening or checking the device and you then decline the recommended repair. We quote approved parts separately.

Do you repair both Windows and Mac computers?

Yes, our technicians are experienced with Windows PCs, Macs, and Linux systems. We handle hardware repairs, software issues, and virus removal for all platforms.

Can you recover my lost data?

We can assess hard drives, SSDs, and USB drives, but recovery cannot be guaranteed. Data-recovery assessments are excluded from No Fix, No Fee and any diagnosis or specialist cost is explained before work proceeds.

Do you build custom computers?

Absolutely. We build custom PCs for gaming, business, and specialized applications, and we can recommend parts to match your budget and performance goals.

Can you help with Wi-Fi and network issues?

Yes. We troubleshoot slow or unreliable networks, improve Wi-Fi coverage, set up routers and access points, and help secure home and business networks.

Do you support small business IT setups?

Yes. We help small businesses with devices, networking, remote support, technology advice, and practical IT improvements that keep day-to-day work running smoothly.

Can you help with Microsoft 365, email, and printers?

Yes. We can assist with common business technology issues including email setup, device configuration, printer troubleshooting, and general workstation support.

Do you offer ongoing support?

Yes. We can provide ongoing support for businesses and repeat customers who want help with maintenance, troubleshooting, updates, and general IT guidance.

Do you build custom websites?

Yes, we build professional websites for small businesses with a focus on mobile usability, search visibility, conversions, and long-term maintainability.

How much does a website cost?

Website setup starts from $499 for Starter, $999 for Business and $1,499 for E-Commerce. Managed hosting starts from $49, $99 and $149 per month respectively. Prices are NZD and the final scope is confirmed in writing.

How long does it take to build a website?

The package targets are 3 days for Starter, 7 days for Business and 14 days for E-Commerce, beginning after the deposit. Missing content, access or approvals, scope changes and custom requirements can extend the date.

Do you provide website hosting?

Yes. Managed hosting starts from $49/month and can include security, backups, small monthly text or image updates, and email where quoted. Domains are not included, but we can register one in the customer's name and manage it while the account is paid.

Can you update my existing website?

Absolutely. We can modernize existing websites, improve mobile compatibility, enhance SEO, add new features, or migrate to more reliable hosting platforms.

Do you provide ongoing website support?

Yes, we provide ongoing support packages for website maintenance, updates, security patches, and technical assistance. We can handle the technical side so you can stay focused on running your business.

Do you provide free quotes?

Yes, we provide free quotes for larger IT projects, websites and business technology work. A dropped-off device may have a $50 diagnostic fee when it is opened or assessed and you decline the recommended repair; we disclose that fee before the assessment.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept bank transfer, tap to pay and online invoice payment. IT support is normally payable when the job is completed; otherwise the invoice due date applies and is ordinarily within seven calendar days. We provide an invoice and receipt.

Do you offer payment plans?

Website projects normally use a minimum 20% deposit and the remaining 80% on completion. Another payment schedule applies only when it is agreed in writing before work begins.

Are your technicians certified?

FernByte is supported by a Cisco Certified CCT Field Technician and Cisco Networking Academy IT Essentials training. We do not publish personal certificate identifiers.

Do you provide warranties on your work?

We provide a 90-day workmanship warranty on repairs and installations. It does not cover unrelated faults, customer or third-party changes, external-provider failures, misuse or manufacturer defects. This warranty is additional to any rights that apply under New Zealand law.

Can you help with network setup?

Absolutely. We set up home and business networks, including Wi-Fi optimization, security configuration, and network troubleshooting.