One of New Zealands larger air shipments of sheep has dotted down in Australia to meet its growing demand for Kiwi sheep genetics.

The worlds largest red meat genetics company, Focus Genetics flew 100 Primera and Highlander rams across the Tasman, the third shipment in the last 12 months.

Focus Genetics Animal breeding specialist, Daniel Absolom says demand has been high.

"The demand for our rams in Australia exceeded all initial expectations. The programme is part of a long term plan to establish New Zealand sheep genetics in the Australian market.

"We have had a lot of inquiry from Australia over the last 15 years but we wanted to find the right partners before we sent any rams. The Primera and Highlander breeds are now well established both here in NZ and the UK and the time is now right for Australia."

Focus Genetics has partnered Paringa Livestock in Australia, providing them with Primera and Highlander sheep breeds.

Paringa Livestock Director, Tom Lawson says there is a growing demand in Australia for quality New Zealand sheep genetics because the lamb survival rates are better in extreme drought conditions.

"In the last two years the results from the Primera and Highlanders have been phenomenal. Although we are still in the early stages we are seeing proven results, so there has been a big rush from farmers to buy more."

"This year we have seen one of the worst droughts on record in Australia. During tough times farmers want top genetics. They dont want to take any risks."

The move into Australia has also attracted interest from Australian meat companies which are interested in higher yielding New Zealand lamb that has also been taste tested.

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Strong Aussie demand for NZ sheep genetics

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