Goats groomed for big day out at A&P Show

There are five breeds of dairy goat in NZ and all five are expected to be on display at the Warkworth A&P Show on January 22.

Anglo Nubian, British Alpine, Saanen, Sable and Toggenburg goats will be judged by a panel of experts on their overall condition, how they lead, best udder class and breed type as part of the livestock section.

Show steward Carol Plumpton, of Helensville, says she expects around six to eight exhibitors from the Auckland and Northland regions to attend with a total of around 40 goats on display.

Carol is a former president of the NZ Dairy Goat Breeders Association (NZDGBA) and has 35 years of experience in breeding goats. She says no matter how long someone has kept goats, there is always something new to be learned.

“Showing goats can be a captivating hobby,” Carol says.

“The thrill of gaining a place with a beloved animal makes all the extra effort in preparation worthwhile. The groundwork for showing starts weeks beforehand. Grooming every day is essential to get the coat into show condition. The feeding of a little linseed meal gives the coat a silky sheen.”

Carols says for those new to breeding or for anyone thinking of starting, the showground is a great place to meet goat-minded people and get some advice.

“Much can be gained from other breeders.”

For a good milking doe, with production records and NZDGBA classification, expect to pay between $250 and $500, and for quality pedigree kids, $200 to $300.

The NZDGBA has been going for 57 years, and based on their membership there are around 200 dairy goat farms in NZ, including both large and small hobbyists.

Pictured: The short line-up in the 2009 breed show from left Toggenburg, British Alpine, Sable and Saanen.