New Zealand Arapawa Goat Association

Profile:

Caro Stanners ~ Stanbrook Arapawa Goats

Caro and Masport

Masport, my darling boy, was my introduction to the world of goats when I adopted him as a kid goat, back in 2010, from an Auckland Council Animal Shelter. There came a time when I was looking to relocate to Canada with Masport and his best buddy, my dog Sooty but we needed to confirm his breed. With the help of my vets they came upon the Arapawa goat and thought some of the breed characteristics matched my boy. So, I contacted Alison Sutherland and that’s how my connection to the Association began.

Masport, Sooty and I never ended up going to Canada, as I learnt more about the Arapawa goats, I felt that maybe my place was here instead, helping to promote the breed and their plight. My love of the outdoors always included Masport and Sooty. Masport was so well behaved, he was easy to take anywhere. He and Sooty learnt spoken language and our version of sign language too. This was especially useful in our Therapy Pet work for the SPCA/St Johns Therapy Pet programs with children. Also, many a time we would be hiking in some remote location and the use of our sign language was invaluable when coming upon a herd of wild goats or deer. Silence and stealth key when documenting and photographing wildlife in their natural surroundings. We had wonderful adventures.

Zack

Always having been involved with animal rescue, I’ve volunteered alongside some of the most experienced and approved wildlife rescuers both in New Zealand and overseas. It’s through this journey that I’ve met some fabulous vets who saw my keen interest in animal welfare and recovery. They took the time to help educate me so that I had the confidence for the hands-on approach I take to animal care.

Whenever I’m in a situation to raise goat awareness of just how smart and useful goats can be, inevitably the Arapawa goats are always part of that conversation. I love being able to now, since I have my own herd of Arapawa does, bucks and wethers; be able to show people photos and recite stories of the joy they bring to my world and how functional they are in so many ways especially in a lifestyle/farm setting. Our Arapawa goats definitely have their place.

Ready for hoof trimming

With my small herd of Arapawas, I find them endlessly fascinating to observe. Their hierarchy, the challenges, the social interaction and the buddying up. My bucks are tough, rugged and well behaved. I’m a stickler for good manners and the boys have respect for me and are very easy to train and so safe to be around. My does are equally well mannered and they’re all trained into a routine as well. Each morning I find all the goats, in their self-picked stalls, eagerly awaiting their breakfast. It’s a wonderful opportunity to check on their health and spend a little time with each one, ensuring that they are the picture of good health.

I’m on a journey to bring awareness for our Arapawa goats, increase their numbers and promote this delightful breed here in New Zealand and abroad. The Arapawa goats are part of our history and with support, our future too.