If you've visited a New Zealand gift shop and found yourself stroking a scarf that felt impossibly soft and light, there's a good chance it was made with possum fibre. It's one of New Zealand's best-kept secrets — and once you know about it, you'll understand why it's become one of the country's most prized luxury textiles.
What Is Possum Fibre?
Possum fibre comes from the brush-tailed possum (Trichosurus vulpecula), an Australian marsupial introduced to New Zealand in the 1850s for the fur trade. Without natural predators, possums became one of New Zealand's most destructive invasive species — they eat native birds' eggs, chicks, and the leaves of native trees, causing enormous damage to New Zealand's unique ecosystems.
The possum fur industry emerged as part of New Zealand's conservation effort. By harvesting possum fur, the industry helps control possum numbers while creating a remarkable textile product. Buying possum fibre goods is genuinely good for New Zealand's environment.
What Makes Possum Fibre So Special?
Possum fibre has a unique hollow structure — each fibre contains a hollow core, similar to polar bear fur. This makes it extraordinarily light and an exceptional insulator, trapping warmth without adding weight.
On its own, possum fibre is too short to spin into yarn. But blended with merino wool — typically in a ratio of around 40% possum to 50% merino, with 10% silk or nylon for binding — it creates a yarn that is:
- Warmer than merino alone — possum fibre adds significant insulation without bulk.
- Exceptionally soft — the blend is often compared to cashmere, but with better durability.
- Lightweight — the hollow fibre structure keeps garments light and packable.
- Pill-resistant — possum merino blends tend to pill less than pure merino over time.
- Unique to New Zealand — you won't find this fibre anywhere else in the world.
Possum Fibre vs. Merino Wool vs. Cashmere
How does possum merino stack up against other luxury fibres?
- vs. Merino — Possum merino is warmer and lighter than pure merino, with a slightly different texture — a little silkier and less structured.
- vs. Cashmere — Possum merino is comparable in softness to mid-grade cashmere, but significantly more durable and better at moisture management. It also has a unique ethical story that cashmere often lacks.
- vs. Synthetic fleece — No comparison. Possum merino is natural, biodegradable, temperature-regulating, and far more comfortable against skin.
How to Care for Possum Merino
Possum merino is easy to care for with a little attention:
- Hand wash or machine wash on a gentle wool cycle in cool water.
- Use a wool-specific detergent.
- Lay flat to dry — never tumble dry.
- Store folded, not hung.
- Air between wears — like merino, possum blends are naturally odour-resistant and don't need frequent washing.
An Ethical and Environmental Choice
Possum fibre is one of the few luxury textiles with a genuine conservation story. Every possum harvested helps protect New Zealand's native forests and wildlife. The industry is regulated, and the fibre is a by-product of pest control rather than a purpose-bred animal industry.
When you buy possum merino, you're supporting New Zealand's conservation effort — and taking home something truly unique.
Shop Possum Merino at The Wrinkly Rams
At The Wrinkly Rams in Omarama, we stock a huge range of possum merino knitwear — all made in New Zealand. Scarves, gloves, wraps, and more, in a range of colours and styles. It's the kind of thing you buy once and treasure for years-so be sure to try on to get the correct style (and size!).
Visit us in Omarama on State Highway 8, or browse our possum merino range online. If you've never tried it and you don't enjoy the cold feeling - prepare to be converted.