We’re combining proven genetics with innovative thinking
We’ve ensured research is taking place in a farm system that’s comparable to what many Kiwi sheep farmers are already working with—yet we’re still pushing the limits with the kind of genetics and measurement tools most wouldn’t have access to.
And what could make a real difference on-farm, including:
Growth, meat yield, and reproduction
Methane emissions and feed efficiency (RFI)
Facial eczema and internal parasite tolerance
Shedding, tail length, and fleece traits
Heat and humidity tolerance
Everything we’re measuring is geared toward insight: what matters, what’s heritable, what’s viable
The environment
At the heart of the programme is a no-wool breeding flock based at Kapiro Station, a 3,000ha commercial farm in Northland. The sub-tropical climate creates real-world conditions—heat, humidity, disease pressure—that push both animals and systems to adapt.
The flock
The core flock includes 2,000 mostly Romney-based ewes, chosen for their productivity and facial eczema tolerance. They’re run alongside a 150-ewe Romney control flock to ensure meaningful comparisons with industry standards.
The rams
We’ve introduced rams from a wide range of breeds—both domestic and international—including shedding and subtropical types with traits that may hold promise for New Zealand conditions.
