Possum Merino and Sustainability: Why New Zealand's Possum Fibre Helps Native Forests
Most luxury fibres ask something of the land. New Zealand possum merino is different: its story begins with a conservation problem and ends with a natural, long-lasting knit. Here is why so many people consider it one of the most responsible fibres they can wear.
An introduced animal with no natural predators
The common brushtail possum is native to Australia, where it is protected. It was introduced to New Zealand in the 1800s to start a fur trade. With no natural predators here, the population spread across the country and grew into the tens of millions.
The impact on native forest and birds
Possums browse the leaves, flowers and fruit of native trees, and they compete with and prey on native birds, eggs and insects. New Zealand's Department of Conservation describes them as one of the country's most damaging pests, and controlling them is a central part of protecting native forests and species such as kiwi, kōkako and kererū. Possums are also a target species in the national Predator Free 2050 goal.
From conservation to knitwear
Possum control already takes place across New Zealand for conservation and biosecurity. Using the fibre means a natural resource is put to good use instead of being wasted. Blended with New Zealand merino wool, it becomes possum merino: warm, light and fully natural.
Natural, renewable and biodegradable
- Merino wool is renewable: sheep grow a new fleece every year.
- Possum fibre and merino are both natural protein fibres that biodegrade at the end of their life, unlike synthetic fleece.
- No microplastic shedding from the wool and possum fibres themselves.
- Made to last: low pilling and easy care mean a possum merino piece stays in your wardrobe for many winters.
Knitted in New Zealand
Every piece in the KlōT͟HiNG Possum Merino collection is knitted in New Zealand, keeping the fibre, the craft and the jobs close to home. Our Luxury blend adds silk for lustre; our Essential blend adds a little nylon for durability in hard-wearing pieces.
How to make your knitwear more sustainable
- Buy fewer, better pieces you will wear for years.
- Air between wears and wash cold only when needed. See our care guide.
- Repair small snags early and store folded with natural moth deterrents.
Frequently asked questions
Is possum merino ethical?
Possums are an introduced pest in New Zealand that damage native forests and birds, and they are controlled for conservation. Using the fibre makes use of that resource in a natural, biodegradable textile.
Can possum merino be sold in Australia?
Yes. Possum merino made from New Zealand possum fibre is sold in Australia. Brushtail possums are protected in Australia, which is why the fibre comes from New Zealand.