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The Hampshire was developed in Britain early in the 19th century by crossing Wiltshire and Berkshire
ewes with Southdown rams. It arrived in New Zealand in 1861, but registrations
of the breed lapsed early last century. It popularity was revived in 1951.
The Hampshire's rapid weight gains, while growing a minimum of fat, have established it as an important
terminal sire for the meat industry. In the United States the Hampshire is the most popular sire for
prime lambs. The breed is suited to a wide variety of climatic conditions and thrives on New Zealand's
lowland pasture.
The fine Down-type wool is used for woollen hosiery, hand-knitting yearns and flannels.
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Classification:
Meat breed used as a terminal crossing sire. Short, fine Down
wool, free of black fibres. Lean prime lambs
Found:
Most areas of New Zealand.
Description:
Large sheep with dark brown face, ears and legs. Wool on poll and
cheeks.
Numbers:
Under 4,000
Body weight:
Ewes: 70–80 kg
Rams: 100–120 kg
Wool production:
Fibre diameter 26–30 microns
Staple length 50–75
mm
Fleece weight 2–3 kg
Lamb production:
120–160 per cent
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