The New Zealand alpaca industry is still in a developmental stage. With just 10,000 animals and 22 different fleece colours, it will be some time before a commercial alpaca fibre industry is established. There is simply not enough clean, fine quality alpaca fibre available to meet the local demand, let alone the international markets of Japan, England, Europe and North America.

Some of the qualities that make alpaca fibre so valuable:

• Alpaca fibre is generally fine but with some guard hair
• Has less prickle factor than most other fibered animals
• Is compatible with either the woollen or worsted manufacturing systems
• Has excellent insulative or thermal qualities
• Has a rich silky sheen which has high visual appeal in the apparel industry
• Is 30% warmer than the same weight of Merino wool
• Is 4 times more abrasion resistant than Merino wool
• Is stronger than wool and does not pill in the better quality animals
• Contains no grease, oil or lanolin and does not smell
• Is bulky but will spring back when squashed
• Does not retain water and can resist solar radiation
• Does not shrink when washed
• Comes in 22 different colours
• Is lightweight and incredibly soft
• Is rare – supply cannot keep up with demand for fine quality fleece
• Can be carded and blended with other natural fibres
• Can be easily dyed any colour without losing its sheen

The potential for the apparel industry is enormous for both manufacturers, spinners and weavers. A fibre that is fine yet soft with no prickle factor and excellent thermal qualities will surely endear itself to the discerning public and ensure a successful future for the industry.

Jerseys, scarves, hats, gloves, fashion garments, underwear and outdoor thermal gear are just some of the clothing that is available around New Zealand today.