National Lamb Day
15 February
Every 15 February, New Zealand celebrates National Lamb Day. It is the day we mark a moment that changed the shape of this country's food industry and set New Zealand lamb on a path to becoming one of the most respected products in the world.
The history
On 15 February 1882, entrepreneurs William Davidson and Thomas Brydone organised the first shipment of frozen lamb from Port Chalmers, Otago, to London. Around 5,000 carcasses made that pioneering journey, and with them, New Zealand's multi-billion dollar meat industry was born.
Davidson, as British-based general manager of the New Zealand and Australian Land Company, had been involved in refrigerated shipping experiments that made the voyage possible. It was a bold idea that paid off, showcasing the quality of New Zealand lamb to the world for the very first time.
Beef + Lamb New Zealand proudly supports National Lamb Day each year, celebrating the farmers, producers, and communities behind this remarkable industry.
This year’s celebration
Get involved
National Lamb Day is for everyone. Whether you are a farmer, a food producer, a chef, or someone who just loves a good lamb chop, there is a place for you in the celebration.
For more information, head to www.nationallambday.co.nz