In New Zealand, Merino sheep graze on pasture in ‘free range’ conditions throughout the year.

The free range style of farming system suits both the high country environment (alpine and sub-alpine grassland) and the hardy Merino breed.

Merino producers have developed the necessary stockmanship, often over many generations, to ensure the health and welfare of their sheep and that the productive capacity of their farms is maintained or enhanced, rather than degraded, over time.

In New Zealand, the Animal Welfare Act (1999) defines minimum standards that specify the obligations of people who own or are in charge of animals. It also defines best management practices for the provision of an animal’s physical health and behavioural needs.

 

No Mulesing

Zque Merino fibre is selected from properties that have never mulsed, or that have stopped mulesing sheep supplying Zque Merino fibre.