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The Halfbred was developed in New Zealand last century from Merino and
on or other of the long-woolled breeds — Leicester, Lincoln
or Romney. Like the Corriedale, the Halfbred
had improved meat and fertility characteristics of the Merino. It is still common practice to use Merino-longwool
first cross rams over interbred Halfbred ewes to maintain hybrid vigour.
The Halfbred is found mainly in the foothills of the Southern Alps but can graze with Merinos in
the higher regional of the Alps.
Wool from the New Zealand Halfbred had gained wide recognition overseas and on occasions has exceeded
the high prices paid for finer-type Merino wool. The wool is used for apparels and fine knitwear.
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Classification:
Dual-purpose breed with emphasis on wool production. Medium-to-fine
wool.
Found:
Widespread in South Island foothills and light rainfall country.
Description:
Medium-sized sheep with white face and legs often covered with wool.
Pink nose.
Numbers:
900,000
Body weight:
45–50 kg
Wool production:
Fibre diameter 26–31 microns
Staple length 75–125
mm
Fleece weight 4–5 kg
Lamb production:
85–100 per cent
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