ABOUT US

Willow Farm was established in 1999 on our 12 acre lifestyle block near Pukekohe  South Auckland.

Our intention was to breed livestock that were suited to the small acreage or lifestyle block and that were also easier for the owners to handle and manage plus have an agreeable temperament.  (pet like qualities).

After much investigation we decided on Alpacas and Dexter’s and would have to say we are very pleased with our choices (refer www.alpaca.org.nz & www.dexter-cattle.co.nz for more info).

We started with 3 pregnant female alpacas and 2 pregnant female Dexter’s.  These numbers have now grown to almost 20 of each.

We made the decision early on that all of our animals would be halter and lead trained.

This makes them quieter and easier to handle and less stressful for all concerned when it comes to moving them from the property, especially when going to and attending shows.

At the 2004 Alpaca Conference Vicky attended the Marty McGee Bennett clinic on training alpacas (refer www.camelidynamics.com)

Marty is renowned worldwide for her teaching method.

Vicky was so taken with this training approach that she attended a 4-day clinic run by Marty in Goulbourn NSW in November 2004.  This enabled Vicky to further understand and develop her own knowledge and skills.

Since then she helped some local alpaca owners to halter and lead the Marty way with great results.  Vicky will be attending a further 4-day advance course at Marty’s home in Bend Oregon in August 2005 to further enhance her knowledge and skills and with the aim of becoming a qualified practioner.

Through our association with Marty Willow Farm has recently been appointed the NZ Agents for Marty’s range of Camelidynamics alpaca and llama training books, video’s, CD’s, DVD and her Zephyr Farm line of halters, leads and other equipment (refer link to product range).

We like to attend A & P shows with both the alpacas and Dexter’s which is a great opportunity to compare your animals with other breeders but also excellent way to meet existing and new like minded people.