In a landmark win for New Zealand’s wool sector, Bremworth, a locally owned wool carpet manufacturer, has been awarded a multimillion-dollar contract by Kāinga Ora to supply wool carpet for both new-build and retrofitted public housing projects. The deal, confirmed by Finance Minister Nicola Willis, marks a significant shift in government procurement towards sustainable, locally sourced materials.
The contract will see wool carpet installed in approximately 1,000 state housing units annually, utilising the annual fleece of over 31,000 New Zealand sheep—a major breakthrough for natural fibres in the construction industry.
“We are one of the biggest purchasers in the NZ economy,” said Minister Willis. “When awarding contracts, we must consider how they add value to our local economy.”
Bremworth CEO Craig Woolford highlighted the broader implications of the deal, calling it a turning point for public procurement and a validation of wool’s durability, safety, and sustainability. “This is not just a commercial win; it’s a message to the entire construction industry—wool meets the standards for high-traffic housing and can replace synthetics in large-scale projects.”
The announcement follows months of lobbying from the wool industry and sustainability advocates, urging the government to prioritise local, natural materials in infrastructure development.
Woolford added that while the Kāinga Ora contract represents a small portion of Bremworth’s production capacity, the strategic value is immense, both economically and symbolically. “To produce 20,000 broadloom metres of wool carpet requires around 95 tonnes of wool, demonstrating the scale and potential of this sector.”
The impact extends beyond public housing. Bremworth has reported increased interest from the private sector, where wool is now being considered as an alternative to synthetic flooring in commercial spaces, schools, and residential developments.
Kara Biggs, General Manager of Campaign for Wool, called the decision “a star act” that sets a powerful precedent for other agencies. “New Zealanders in social housing will now live on natural, healthy, and sustainable wool carpet instead of plastic.”
Toby Williams, Chair of Federated Farmers’ Meat and Wool division, praised the move as a much-needed lifeline for the ailing wool industry. “This contract is the parachute we desperately need. It won’t fix everything, but it’s a significant step in the right direction.”
Kāinga Ora is set to begin installing wool carpets in all new public housing units from July 1, as part of a wider commitment to sustainable building practices and regional economic development.
