What is a kunekune?
Pronounced "KOO-nee-KOO-nee"
Historically, KuneKune pigs were native to New Zealand, where they were traditionally raised by the Māori people. The exact origins of the KuneKune breed remain uncertain, but it is believed they were introduced to New Zealand by whalers in the 1800s and subsequently traded to the Māori. By the early 1900s, KuneKune pigs were exclusively found in Māori settlements. These slow-growing, grazing pigs are distinguished by their short, slightly upturned snouts, fleshy wattles, and robust build. The name KuneKune is derived from the Māori language, meaning "fat and round."
The breed was highly valued for its docile temperament, tendency to remain close to home, and its distinctive marbled pork and abundant lard. Known for producing what is often referred to as the "red meat of pork," KuneKune pigs were considered a prized culinary resource.
By the late 1970s, however, the KuneKune breed faced near extinction. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of two New Zealand wildlife park owners, the breed was revived. Between 1992 and 2012, KuneKune pigs were successfully imported from New Zealand to both the United Kingdom and the United States, ensuring the breed's preservation and continued growth.
Why We Chose KuneKunes
At Lazybird Farm, we believe KuneKunes have a valuable place in small-scale pork production. Their manageable size, gentle dispositions and exceptional pork quality make them an excellent choice for homesteaders and small farms looking to raise their own meat without the demands of a much larger commercial hog. Our ideal KuneKune is a substantial, well-built animal with strong bone, correct structure, excellent muscling and a balanced meat-to-fat ratio. We are working toward producing pigs that reach 200 pounds by 12 months of age while maintaining the qualities that make this breed so special.
We aren't interested in changing what a KuneKune is. We want to thoughtfully improve the traits that make them productive, practical livestock while preserving their unique characteristics and the rich, flavorful pork they're known for. Our primary focus is producing quality, pasture-raised pork, with a limited number of carefully selected breeding animals available to other farms that share our vision.
We still have work to do to reach our goals, but we're committed to making thoughtful breeding decisions, learning from each generation and building a herd we're proud of.
Learn more about our breeding philosephy here.
Not just better flavor- better for you!
KuneKune pork offers more than exceptional flavor! Like other high-quality pork, it is naturally rich in protein, B vitamins and essential minerals such as zinc and selenium.
Research into pasture-raised pork suggests that access to forage and a varied diet can positively influence the fatty acid profile of the meat, including its omega-3 content. Limited nutritional testing of KuneKune pork has also shown promising differences in vitamins D and E and certain fatty acids compared with conventional pork.
At Lazybird Farm, we believe great pork starts with how our animals are raised. Our pasture-based approach reflects our commitment to thoughtful animal husbandry, quality meat and bringing delicious, farm-raised pork to your family's table.