Peter McCusker’s uninterrupted career in wool started in 1979, initially with Pyne Gould Guinness, which after a series of mergers eventually became PGG Wrightson. Graduating with a Wool Certificate and Wool Diploma from what was then Lincoln College, his territory predominantly covers North Canterbury and Marlborough, also including fine wool clients through wider Canterbury.

Farms east of the Main Divide are generally summer dry, which suits finer wool Corriedale, half-bred and Merino sheep. Peter specialises in these breeds, helping clients with hogget and ram selection to improve both animal and wool quality, as he explains. 

“My knowledge of South Island sheep studs and their genetic traits enables me to identify opportunities to improve a client’s sheep and wool production and profit. Relationships are more satisfying when you can add value to the business on-farm, as well as helping clients successfully market their clip,” he says.

Significant land use and breed change has occurred in the region over the years. East Coast sheep and beef properties traditionally ran fine wool Corriedales, capable of handling dry summers. Through the 2000s increasing lamb returns ushered in more composite and strong wool breeds. Latterly, better fine wool prices and improved genetics are encouraging farmers to reconsider their breed choices.

“Marlborough has seen significant change of sheep and beef land to viticulture. Sheep farmers were quick to see a business opportunity to graze between the vines, using hoggets as lawn mowers.

This saves the wine grower and provides good off-farm grazing for young stock; a win-win for both parties,” Peter says.

Always keen to promote wool, be it judging at local and national A&P shows or working with advisory panels and industry good groups, Peter sees wool as a natural renewable fibre that ticks all the boxes for sustainability. 

“Medium and long-term contracts for clients’ wool have evolved over the years, adding certainty to their business and helping establish strong relationships with customers,” he says. 

Peter and wife Katherine are both keen nature photographers who take every opportunity to enjoy the outdoors.

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