TCDC eyes possum fibre potential

In a classic "turn a problem into an opportunity" scenario Thames-Coromandel District Council is to push for funding to support investigations into how trappers on the Coromandel Peninsula can best feed into a growing market for possum fur/merino wool products.

This follows a deputation to the December Council meeting from a group and individuals seeking TCDC support in advocating for an end to the aerial application of 1080 on the Coromandel Peninsula.

The Council was told that the $100m a year possum/merino fibre industry could double if enough possum fibre could be obtained. It currently generates about $40 million in wages nationally and directly employs 1150 workers.

Merino farmers could easily double their production to meet the demand, but the major constraint was in finding enough possum fur to meet the tourist and overseas market demand.

Council resolved that it would advocate to the Minister of Conservation that, where practicable, animal pest control in the Thames-Coromandel District be undertaken by trapping, hunting and non-residual poisons.

It also resolved that it would advocate to both the Minister of Conservation and the Minister for Economic Development on the potential for growth in our possum fur exports and the job opportunities that could be created by the expanding market for possum fibre.

Council is to ask the Hauraki-Coromandel Development Group (HCDG) to pursue feasibility funding from New Zealand Trade and Enterprise to develop the possum fibre market.