The product of research and development in the wool sector was aired during Question Time in Parliament yesterday.
New Zealand First MP David Wilson tossed a patsy to his party colleague, Mark Patterson, the Associate Minister of Agriculture:
“What recent announcements has the Minister made regarding wool?”
Mr Patterson was eager to respond that earlier in the week he had the privilege to announce and attend the completion of the first commercial consignment of deconstructed woollen particles at Wool Source’s facility at Lincoln University.
The shipment was now bound for Japan for use in hair care products, showcasing a revolutionary new process, supported by $3.5 million in funding through the Ministry of Primary Industries.
Mr Patterson enthused:
“Deconstruction of wool and fibre technology is the moon shot for the New Zealand wool industry. Deconstructing woollen pigments, particles, and powders into bioagents for inks, dyes, and nutraceuticals takes wool onto a whole new commercial playing field. It has the potential to capture very high returns, support much higher farm gate returns, and importantly, has the potential to scale and to take significant quantities of New Zealand wool.”
This world-leading technology had been developed by WRONZ, the Wool Research Organisation of New Zealand at Lincoln University, the Minister said.
The IP is owned by New Zealand farmers and industry.
Dr Wilson asked what other initiatives are under way in the wool sector
Mr Patterson replied that one of his priorities had been re-establishing mandated leadership for the wool sector.
Since the demise of the Wool Board and industry levy in 2011, the sector had been fragmented, lacking coordination and leadership he said.
The Wool Alliance had been formed to explore an enduring industry model, a collaborative initiative designed to develop a sustainable, long-term industry model.
The alliance brings together Wool Impact, Campaign for Wool New Zealand, and the Wool Research Organisation of New Zealand, with the support from Beef + Lamb New Zealand, and is chaired by former chairman of Fonterra, John Monaghan.
Farmer and industry consultation is underway with the aim of formalising a structure fby the end of June 2026.
Dr Wilson asked what the highlights of the wool sector had been in 2025.
Mr Patterson said the ultimate highlight had been the increase in the wool price: up 25 to 40 percent, depending on the micron, year on year as a return to natural fibres and woollen products.
A particular highlight had been the Government’s announcement to give preference to woollen fibres in Government buildings.
“It has been well received by farmers, by industry, by the public, and has attracted international recognition. But the greatest reward for me has been witnessing the revival of the sector, the return of pride for our wool growers and our industry, a sense of collaboration and purpose, and to see investment starting to flow back into the sector, with the knowledge that their Government is right behind them.”
Jenny Marcroft, a colleague in the New Zealand First caucus, asked:
“Can the Minister confirm that he has set a high “baa” for the wool industry?”
The Speaker said nay. Or was it neigh?
“Well, next minute you’ll be asking him to demonstrate, so we’ll just move on,” he ruled.
