Why Kunekune?

   We accidentally discovered the Kunekune breed during a routine Craigslist farm/garden browse years ago. The unique name inspired me to research these smaller pasture pigs.

   "The history of the breed is one of a close association with the Maori people, and in the early 1900's were usually only found associated with Maori settlements. In early times the Kunekune pigs were prized for their placid nature and their tendency not to roam, as they have always been a domesticated pig. They were also valued for the quantity of meat and fat, the fat being used for preserving food.

   In the late 1970's the breed was 'rediscovered' and at that time it was estimated that there were only about 50 purebred Kunekunes left in New Zealand. From purebred base stock of only 6 sows and 3 boars in 1978, the Kunekune now numbers in the thousands. It is due to the enthusiasm and dedication of people like Michael Willis and John Simister that the breed was saved from extinction (AKPR).

   Nowadays, the Kunekune has found its niche as a pet pig. Its unique appearance, placid nature, and small round size that made it unacceptable in a commercial environment has enabled this special breed to find its place in modern New Zealand life."-The New Zealand Kunekune Association

   We found Kunekune piglets for sale locally and decided to start a breeding program. Two years and three litters later, we realized a few things about these pigs. They are wonderfully low maintenance and a lot of fun to raise. We also came to the conclusion that these pigs were not pure Kunekune. The breed standard pigs have an upturned snout, to properly graze pastures. We noticed rooting patterns in our pig area. Our female's disposition was not consistent with common Kunekune personality characteristics. Finally, we concluded that perhaps we should be trying to preserve this amazing breed and their bloodlines. 

   We decided to contact one of the top breeders in the country, Black Valley Farms in Pennsylvania. With their advice and knowledge of breeding lines, we purchased our first purebred Kunes. 

Apollo

Arona

   We registered our pair with the American Kunekune Pig Registry (AKPR). On May 13, 2020, their first litter was born. Arona gave birth to 4 healthy gilts and 4 healthy boars!