As a company we are very aware of our responsibilities to protect the unique ecology of New Zealand.

As part of our contribution to this preservation, we are involved with the programme 'operation nest egg' run in conjunction with the Department of Conservation.  This programme hatches kiwi chicks and then releases them back into the wild when they are old enough to protect themselves against predators.

Manawatu Knitting Mills is commited to New Zealand and its unique and diverse wildlife.  Because of this dedication, Manawatu Knitting Mills are proud to have sponsored a precious kiwi chick called 'Mana', a Maori word meaning 'Prestige'. 

The brushtail possum was introduced to New Zealand in the 1850s and this particular species of possum is now causing havoc on our natural wild life and native forests. 

The need to control the number of possums in New Zealand, in order to protect the native wildlife, flora, and fauna, saw the development of a specialised fibre within the knitwear industry of New Zealand.  This fibre incorporated New Zealand Merino wool, and Possum fur, a combination that proved to be successful.  A superior, high quality yarn was created, that also worked to successfully help the ecology of New Zealand by creating a demand for possum fibre.

Facts about possum fibre: 

-The Possum fibre has no scales and is hollow, which gives both lightness and warmth, compared to other natural fibres of a similar micron.

-Possum fur has a very silky handle to give instant feel appeal unlike any other. The texture of knitted possum fur is luxuriously soft, easy to wear and exceptionally comfortable.

-Possum fur will not freeze, even when exposed to periods of prolonged cold. The only other fibre on the planet known to have the same characteristic is polar bear fur.

-The unique blend of possum fur and merino lambs wool creates a pilling retardant fibre. Possum fur is a low-pill and anti static which means that each garment can be worn throughout the years and still look as new as the day it was purchased.