Breed Societies have had a place in New Zealand agriculture since the late 1800's. Breeding groups of all species of livestock began incorporating Breed Societies particularly in the early 1900's and this practice has continued for the last 100 years. The information gathered in this report refers to Sheep and Beef Breeds predominantly, however does reference the Dairy Breeds and the impact dairying has had on pastoral sheep and beef farming. The purpose of this report is to examine the Breed Society role, its culture, and impact over the last 100 years, how this has changed, and the relevance of the role in New Zealand agriculture going forward.

The New Zealand Kellogg Rural Leaders Programme develops emerging agribusiness leaders to help shape the future of New Zealand agribusiness and rural affairs. Lincoln University has been involved with this leaders programme since 1979 when it was launched with a grant from the Kellogg Foundation, USA.