Range Management and Improvement in New Zealand

Abstract

Approximately one-third of New Zealand is in improved pasture and additional areas are being developed each year. These are high producing, seeded mainly to turf forming grasses and legumes, fertilized periodically by air, and intensively managed for wool, lamb, mutton, and beef production. Range lands occur chiefly in the colder South Island, generally at elevations above 3000 feet. Wool production is paramount, although some lamb, mutton and beef are produced. As a result mainly of heavy rabbit infestation and burning to provide fresh forage in past years, these ranges were seriously deteriorated followed by excessive runoff and erosion. Rabbits have been controlled, burning largely eliminated, and better range and livestock management is being applied.