The possum is an introduced marsupial species from Australia.
With an estimated possum population of 35 million in New Zealand they are officially a pest that predate on our endangered native flightless birds and indigenous plants.
Possums eat over 11 tonnes of native vegetation every night and unlike their distant cousins in America they are omnivores, eating smaller native species and eggs.
Our yarn supplier work closely with the Department of Conservation and the TBfreeNZ eradication programmes, ensuring best practice guidelines for harvesting possum fur.
By choosing Ahipao products you are helping support the goal of a predator-free New Zealand and the flourishing future of our countries unique flora and fauna.
Mulberry silk is known for its low carbon footprint and is an eco-friendly fibre. With over 6,000 years of history it is no wonder this fibre is considered a timeless classic of the luxury textile world. Our dedicated yarn supplier sources only the most premium grade of OEKOTEX® Standard 100 certified Mulberry Silk from China, the birthplace of silk.
ZQ Merino is the world’s leading ethical wool , supplied by a trusted and internationally recognised company known for their fully traceable supply chain.
The wool is harmlessly collected by highly skilled shearers in springtime, mainly on the South Island, to ensure the flock have time to grow back their woolly coats in time for winter.
Merino wool offers numerous advantages. It provides good insulation, transports moisture and has anti-static properties. It doesn’t itch, smell or crease much, it is lightweight and keeps its shape and it does this all in a completely natural and sustainable way.
Merino was established in the Middle Ages in Spain by breeding European and African sheep together and was so protected that anyone found exporting it was executed.
Luckily a flock found its way to New Zealand in the 1840’s where it thrived in our climate.
It takes the fur of five possums to make one sweater.
Traditionally cashmere is the ultra-luxurious and rarest of fibres in the world. Cashmere’s incredibly soft texture and lightweight feel have been apart of the textile industry since the early 15th century.
This opulent fibre is ethically sourced in Mongolia from environmentally conscious farms that follow cruelty-free standards. Ahipao only uses cashmere that has been brushed from the cashmere goat, not sheared, to ensure the softest of garments.
Traditionally cashmere is the ultra-luxurious and rarest of fibres in the world. Cashmere’s incredibly soft texture and lightweight feel have been apart of the textile industry since the early 15th century.
This opulent fibre is ethically sourced in Mongolia from environmentally conscious farms that follow cruelty-free standards. Ahipao only uses cashmere that has been brushed from the cashmere goat, not sheared, to ensure the softest of garments.