New Zealand Rabbits: Breed Profile
The commercial meat rabbit that was developed in California, not New Zealand.
The New Zealand is a medium to large rabbit with a firm, compact body, a full hindquarter and a well-rounded shoulder. White is the most familiar color, but the breed also comes in red, black and broken varieties. It is one of the most widely used meat rabbit breeds in the United States.
History
Despite the name, the breed was developed in the United States, in California, in the early twentieth century. Breeders worked with several lines to produce a rabbit that grew quickly and carried a good amount of meat. The American Rabbit Breeders Association recognizes the breed and its varieties. White New Zealands became especially common in commercial production and in laboratories.
Purpose
The New Zealand is a dual-purpose rabbit used for meat and fur, and it is a mainstay of 4-H meat pen classes. Does are good mothers and produce large litters, and the young grow quickly. In the show ring, the breed is judged on a standard that values a compact, meaty body.
Where the breed stands today
The breed is common and not considered rare. Quality varies widely, so buying from a breeder who exhibits is wise. Some varieties, such as the red and black, are less common than the white.
Showing New Zealand Rabbits at 4-H and FFA
Pros
- Many classes. Breed classes and meat pen classes are common at rabbit shows.
- Strong meat project. The breed suits market classes where rabbits are judged as meat animals.
- Calm and sturdy. The breed is typically easy to handle.
- Low entry cost. Rabbits are inexpensive compared with large livestock.
- Good for learning. Rabbits teach breeding, feeding and records quickly because the generations are short.
Cons
- Large size. Breeders and exhibitors need room for hutches and handling.
- Competition. The breed is popular, so classes can be large and quality high.
- Fitting for color. White rabbits show stains easily, and care is needed.
- Strict standards. Faults such as wrong weight or color can disqualify a rabbit.
- Health management. Rabbits are sensitive to heat and to some diseases, so housing and sanitation matter.
What to look for in a New Zealand show rabbit
The Standard calls for a medium-length, firm body with a broad, full hindquarter and a well-filled shoulder. The head should be of medium size, the ears upright and the eyes bright. Coat quality should be dense and clean. Check feet and nails, and look for signs of illness such as discharge or a dull coat.
Questions to ask a breeder
- Is the rabbit registered, and is a pedigree available?
- How old is she, and has she been bred?
- What is her weight and condition?
- What is the herd's health history?
- Does my show have a meat pen class, and what are the entry rules?
Bottom line
The New Zealand is an excellent first rabbit project, especially for students interested in meat classes and breeding. Expect strong competition and plan for housing.
See How Breeding Classes and Market Classes Work for class types. agriculture.directory can help you find feed and supplies, and farm.fm has a humorous look at the county fair in Crop Circle at the County Fair.