Sheep : ARAPAWA

Origin: Arapawa Island, New Zealand.

Australian Status:

International Status:

Arrived in Australia:

Australian Population: Ewes: 9 (2017)

Distribution:

History: These sheep come from Arapawa Island in the Marlborough Sounds, South Island, NZ. The origin is unknown but thought to be Merinos left on the island, possibly from Australia, in the 1860's. Over time they developed a hardy type. They are light framed, and come in a variety of colours, many being brown and black. Fleeces are often mottled with varying colour, the tips being bleached rusty brown. A hardy cold climate breed with lovely wool.

As a feral animal they are hunted but are also being raised domestically now in NZ. The number had decreased to only 20 sheep when Betty Rowe of Picton set up a sanctuary to save them.

There is one flock in Australia, brought here by the University of Western Australia, originally going to two properties. It seems there are now only nine ewes left and these can be found at Caversham Wildlife Park. 

Breed traits: The wool is fine, and although wild breeds tend to shed, kept domestically they will retain it in time to be shorn. Being a wild breed they are very resistant to fly strike, making them easier to keep. The meat is finely textured and gamey, and is popular in restaurants.

The wool gets good reviews from spinners - although of uneven staple, it's fine and easy to spin into a nice even, fine yarn with lovely, finely flecked colours like tweed - and being soft, strong and elastic. The Rams grow spiral horns like a Merino, the ewes remain polled.

Uses: Wool and Meat

Breed Organisation: None found.

Additional Notes:

Photo of Arapawa ewes courtesy of Chadd Banfield.

Arapawa flock owned by Caversham Wildlife Park.

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