Multiple investigations have been initiated following allegations of animal cruelty at a farm leased by Matt Lauer, the former NBC Today show host. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) Asia-Pacific reported that an investigation into 11 farms and shearing sheds supplying ZQ-certified wool uncovered workers mistreating sheep, including beating and stomping on them.
One of the implicated sites is Hunter Valley Station, leased by Lauer in 2017. PETA alleges farm workers stepped on a sheep’s neck, dragged sheep across the floor, and sewed wounds without painkillers. The Ministry for Primary Industries has confirmed it is investigating these claims.
Graeme Todd, Lauer’s lawyer in New Zealand, stated that Lauer had no involvement in daily farm operations. The farming rights were subleased to Hunter Valley Farming Co Limited by Lauer’s company, and independent contractors were hired for shearing. Despite these arrangements, Lauer’s company, Orange Lakes (NZ) Limited, has launched its own investigation.
“These are very serious allegations and Matt is taking them seriously,” Todd emphasized. “We notified the Overseas Investment Office and clarified that a separate entity owns the stock and plant, contracting independent shearing services.”
When RNZ contacted Digby Cochrane of the Hunter Valley Farming Co Limited, he declined to comment initially but later confirmed that the company was investigating the claims in collaboration with the Ministry for Primary Industries.
PETA has provided evidence to New Zealand officials, prompting further scrutiny. Peter Hyde from MPI noted that they had received a complaint and video clips. The allegations are reportedly connected to events dating back to 2023.
The New Zealand Merino Company’s wool certification, ZQ, under which the wool was marketed to brands like Allbirds and Hugo Boss, is also in the spotlight. PETA’s Senior Vice President, Jason Baker, criticized the certification, alleging it conceals animal suffering.
The matter has also caught the attention of Toitū Te Whenua Land Information NZ, which plans to examine the allegations as a priority and has referred them to MPI.
Authorities continue to investigate, and further developments are anticipated once Lauer’s and the farming company’s investigations are concluded.
