Heritage Breed Chickens in New Zealand – What Are They and Why Should You Care?
Heritage Breed Chickens in New Zealand – What Are They and Why Should You Care?
If you’ve ever thought about raising chickens, you might have come across the term "heritage breeds."
Simply put, heritage breed chickens are traditional types that haven’t been bred for industrial farming. These birds are more like what our grandparents raised—slow-growing, hardy, and able to naturally reproduce. They’re often better suited for free-range living, which makes them a perfect fit for New Zealand’s small farms and backyards.
Heritage chickens are hardy foragers that don’t need constant care or specialised feed, saving you money.
Keeping heritage chickens also helps preserve chicken diversity and prevent older breeds from disappearing.
Beyond history, heritage chickens offer real benefits, from flavorful eggs to dual-purpose breeds for meat and eggs.
Popular breeds in New Zealand, like Orpingtons, Barnevelders, and Araucanas, are well-adapted to our climate and are productive layers.
And if you’re looking for a reliable, easy-to-use chicken feeder and drinker system to go along with your heritage flock, check out ourfeeder and drinker kits at Dine-A-Chook.
What Are Heritage Breed Chickens?
Heritage breed chickens are traditional breeds that have been around for generations.
Heritage chickens are often described as the “classic” or “old-fashioned” breeds. They come from a time before industrial agriculture when chickens were bred for toughness and long-term productivity rather than fast growth. These breeds still carry those traits today. They’re slower to mature, which means they tend to be healthier and live longer, offering a steady supply of eggs over the years.
This makes them a great choice for anyone who wants a more hands-off approach to chicken keeping.
In New Zealand, we don’t have any chicken breeds that are native or specifically originated here. Instead, most of the heritage breeds you’ll find in local farms and backyards come from international origins—mainly the UK and Europe.
Over time, though, these birds have been adapted to handle New Zealand’s climate and farming conditions. That’s why breeds like Orpingtons and Barnevelders are so popular here—they’re tough enough for our environment but still lay plenty of eggs and make great pets or farm birds.
Why Should You Care About Heritage Breeds?
The biggest reason to care about heritage breeds is their role in maintaining genetic diversity.
Most of the chickens you see in commercial farming are hybrids bred for very specific purposes—usually to grow fast and produce as many eggs or as much meat as possible. This has led to a narrowing of the genetic pool, which makes chickens more vulnerable to disease and other problems.
On top of that, heritage chickens are generally hardier and better at fending for themselves.
Many of these breeds are great foragers, which means they’ll find a good portion of their food while roaming around, reducing your feed costs. They’re also more likely to thrive in natural, organic setups where they can live a more “chicken-like” life—scratching for bugs, laying eggs at their own pace, and even hatching their chicks if you let them.
If you want to raise chickens in a way that’s sustainable, rewarding, and rooted in tradition, heritage breeds are the way to go.
And don’t forget, to make life easier for you and your flock, grab one of ourfeeder and drinker kits. These kits ensure your birds are always well-fed and watered, with no mess and minimal maintenance.
Popular Heritage Chicken Breeds in New Zealand
While New Zealand may not have any native heritage breeds, it plays a significant role in conserving heritage breeds from around the world. Many of these breeds have been adapted to suit local farming practices and climate conditions, contributing to the country's strong poultry heritage.
Let’s take a look at some of the most popular heritage breeds you’ll find here in New Zealand.
1. Orpington – Blue, Black, Buff & White
Orpingtons are one of the most beloved heritage breeds, known for their large size, fluffy feathers, and calm, gentle nature.
These birds are incredibly versatile, being both excellent egg layers and great for meat production. Their medium-sized, light-brown eggs are a favourite among backyard keepers.
Orpingtons are also fantastic foragers, so they thrive in free-range environments where they can scratch around for bugs and greens. Because of their size, they’re too heavy to fly, which makes them easy to manage in any chicken coop setup.
If you’re after a large, dual-purpose bird that’s easy-going and productive, the Orpington should be at the top of your list.
2. Barnevelders – Silver & Gold Double Laced
Barnevelders are another heavy, dual-purpose breed originating from the Netherlands.
What sets them apart is their stunning double-laced feathers, giving them a striking appearance in any flock. These birds lay medium to dark brown eggs, often considered the darkest brown you’ll find in New Zealand.
Barnevelders are also adventurous and excellent foragers, making them well-suited for free-range living where they can hunt for bugs and enjoy the outdoors.
If you’re looking to add some beauty to your flock while also boosting egg production with chocolate-coloured eggs, Barnevelders are a fantastic choice.
3. Araucana – Lavender & Black
The Araucana is a smaller heritage breed that originated in Chile, best known for its beautiful blue-green eggs.
Their unique appearance—feathered tufts around their ears and no tail—makes them stand out in any flock. Despite their smaller size, Araucanas are valued for their egg production, particularly for those wanting a variety of egg colours in their collection.
For those who love the idea of rainbow-coloured eggs, the Araucana’s blue and green eggs are a must-have. They’re also hardy foragers, perfect for free-range environments.
4. Barred Plymouth Rock
One of the most iconic heritage breeds, Barred Plymouth Rocks are known for their distinctive zebra-striped feathers.
These birds are dual-purpose, providing both a steady supply of cream-coloured eggs and excellent quality meat. Barred Rocks are large, hardy birds that adapt well to free-range living. They’re also known for their friendly temperament, making them a great choice for both small farms and backyard flocks.
With their striking appearance and versatility, Barred Plymouth Rocks are a favourite for those wanting both eggs and meat from their flock.
5. Sussex – Light & Coronation
Sussex chickens are another classic dual-purpose breed, valued for their excellent egg production and large body size.
Light Sussex birds are known for their black tails and collars, while the Coronation Sussex has soft grey markings.
Both varieties are excellent layers, providing a steady supply of eggs, and their roosters make great table birds for meat production.
If you’re after a heavy breed that’s easy to manage and productive, Sussex chickens are a reliable and versatile option.
6. Leghorn – Blue & Splash
Leghorns are renowned worldwide for their prolific egg-laying abilities, often producing up to 300 eggs per year. The blue and splash varieties of Leghorns are a little calmer than the traditional white or brown Leghorns, which makes them easier to manage in smaller flocks. These birds are also active foragers, always on the move and searching for food, which helpskeep feed costs down.
For those who need a reliable, high-output layer, Leghorns are hard to beat. The blue and splash varieties are particularly suited to backyard keepers who want a productive yet manageable bird.
7. Australorp
Australorps are a popular heritage breed in New Zealand, well-known for their exceptional egg-laying performance, with some hens laying over 300 eggs a year.
These black-feathered birds have a glossy, iridescent sheen that adds beauty to any flock. They’re hardy, adaptable, and particularly suited to our cooler climates, making them a great choice for Kiwi backyard chicken keepers.
Their calm temperament and high egg production make them ideal for families and small-scale keepers looking for both eggs and a friendly addition to the flock.
8. Rhode Island Red
Rhode Island Reds are a versatile, dual-purpose breed, recognised for their rich, dark red feathers and reliable egg production.
These birds lay large, brown eggs and are known for their resilience, thriving in free-range environments and tolerating a variety of weather conditions.
With their strong, independent nature, Rhode Island Reds are a great choice for those seeking a low-maintenance, hardy bird that consistently produces high-quality eggs.
9. Wyandotte – Silver & Gold Laced
Wyandottes are an eye-catching breed, featuring striking silver or gold-laced plumage that sets them apart in any flock.
They are dual-purpose birds, providing both medium-sized brown eggs and a good amount of meat. Known for their docile temperament, Wyandottes are easy to handle, making them a popular choice for families or those new to keeping chickens.
If you’re looking for a stunning breed that offers both beauty and productivity, Wyandottes are a top contender.
10. Faverolles
The Faverolles is a charming breed, easily recognised by their fluffy beards and feathered feet.
Originally from France, these birds are excellent layers of light brown or pinkish-tinted eggs and are also good for meat production.
Faverolles are incredibly friendly and enjoy human interaction, making them a great choice for backyard flocks with children. With their gentle nature and unique appearance, Faverolles add both character and productivity to any Kiwi chicken coop.
Heritage Breed Chickens Versus Commercial Breed Chickens
When choosing chickens for your backyard or farm, it's important to understand the differences between heritage breeds and commercial breeds. Heritage breeds grow more slowly and naturally, while commercial breeds are engineered for rapid productivity.
Lifespan and Maturity
- Heritage Breeds: Mature slowly but have a longer lifespan, typically living 6–12 years.
- Commercial Breeds: Mature quickly but usually live only 3–4 years.
Egg Production
- Heritage Breeds: Lay 3–6 eggs per week and continue laying for several years.
- Commercial Breeds: May lay up to one egg per day in their prime but significantly reduce production after two years.
Foraging Ability
- Heritage Breeds: Hardy foragers that thrive in free-range conditions, finding food naturally.
- Commercial Breeds: Require carefully balanced diets to maintain productivity.
Breeding and Broodiness
- Heritage Breeds: Capable of natural reproduction; hens often go broody and are good mothers, raising their own chicks.
- Commercial Breeds: Rarely go broody and typically require artificial incubation.
Temperament and Variety
- Heritage Breeds: Vary widely in temperament and care needs. Some are gentle and friendly (like Orpingtons), while others are more active and independent (like Leghorns).
- Commercial Breeds: Generally more uniform in behaviour and are designed for specific production goals.
Benefits of Keeping Heritage Breed Chickens
Longevity and Robust Health
Heritage chickens live longer, healthier lives and are generally hardier, with better disease resistance due to their slower growth rates.
Sustainability and Self-Sufficiency
These breeds are excellent foragers, reducing the need for commercial feed. Many can breed naturally at home, promoting a more self-sufficient approach to poultry raising.
High-Quality Eggs and Meat
Heritage breeds produce high-quality eggs in various colours, including blue, green, and dark brown. Their meat is renowned for superior flavour and texture, appealing to those who prioritise quality over quantity.
Are Heritage Breed Chickens Right for Me?
Heritage breed chickens offer many benefits, but they aren’t the perfect fit for everyone. Here’s a breakdown of whether these traditional breeds are right for your backyard or small farm.
Heritage Breeds for Backyard Flocks
For backyard chicken keepers, heritage breeds are often a top choice because they tend to be more docile and hardy. Their calm nature makes them excellent companions for families, and they can provide a steady supply of eggs for household use. Additionally, heritage breeds are well-suited to free-range environments, where they can forage for much of their food. They may not produce an egg a day like some commercial breeds, but they make up for it with their easygoing temperament and longevity.
If you’re after friendly, low-maintenance chickens that will fit in nicely with a small backyard setup, heritage breeds are a great option.
Heritage Breeds for Small Farms
Small-scale farmers love heritage breeds for their versatility. These chickens are often dual-purpose, which means they’re good for both egg production and meat. This flexibility can be a big advantage if you’re looking to raise chickens that meet multiple needs. Because heritage breeds are more self-sufficient and resilient, they’re easier to manage on a small farm, especially if you prefer to let your chickens free-range.
Heritage breeds are ideal for farms that value sustainability, as these birds tend to thrive in natural, organic farming setups without relying heavily on commercial feed or interventions.
Factors to Consider Before Raising Heritage Chickens
Before you jump into raising heritage breeds, it’s important to consider a few factors:
- Climate: Some heritage breeds are better suited to certain climates. For example, heavier breeds like Orpingtons and Sussex handle colder temperatures well, while lighter breeds may prefer milder conditions.
- Space: Heritage breeds are natural foragers and enjoy having room to roam. If you’re planning on raising them, make sure you have enough space for them to explore.
- Eggs or Meat: Decide whether you want chickens primarily for eggs, meat, or both. Some heritage breeds, like Leghorns, are excellent egg layers, while others, like Orpingtons, are great for meat production.
Keep in mind that heritage chickens generally take longer to mature compared to commercial breeds, but their longevity and self-sufficiency make them worth the wait.
How to Choose the Best Heritage Breed for Your Chicken Coop
Choosing the right heritage breed depends on your needs, whether you’re looking for eggs, meat, or a combination of both. Let’s break down some of the best heritage breeds based on your goals.
The Best Heritage Breed Chickens for Eggs
If you’re mainly looking for a steady supply of eggs, you’ll want to choose a breed known for high egg production.
Leghorns are one of the top choices, capable of producing up to 300 eggs a year, making them a favourite for those who prioritise eggs. Another great option is the Sussex, a breed that not only lays plenty of eggs but is also hardy and adaptable to different climates.
Chicken Breeds for Rainbow Eggs (e.g., Araucana for blue/green eggs)
For a more colourful egg basket, consider breeds like the Araucana, which lays striking blue or green eggs. Barnevelders also contribute to the fun by laying dark brown eggs, offering you a rainbow of egg colours to enjoy.
Best Egg Layers for New Zealand Conditions
In New Zealand’s varying climate, some of the best breeds for consistent egg production are Sussex and Orpingtons. These chickens are hardy, cold-tolerant, and reliable layers, making them a practical choice for different weather conditions.
The Best Heritage Breed Chickens for Meat
If you’re more interested in raising chickens for meat, Orpingtons and Barred Plymouth Rocks are excellent options. These breeds grow to a substantial size, offering high-quality, flavourful meat. Because they mature more slowly than commercial broiler chickens, the meat tends to be richer and more flavourful.
The Best Dual-Purpose Heritage Breed Chickens
If you want a breed that’s good for both eggs and meat, Sussex and Plymouth Rocks are great dual-purpose birds. They provide a good number of eggs and also grow large enough to be valuable for meat production, giving you the best of both worlds.
The Best Heritage Breed Chickens for Breeding
For those interested in breeding chickens, heritage breeds are an excellent choice because they retain their ability to reproduce naturally. Orpingtons and Araucanas are especially popular with breeders, as they have strong genetic diversity and make good mothers, often raising their own chicks with little need for intervention.
Where to Buy Heritage Breed Chicken?
One place to buy heritage breed chickens and other poultry is Harrisville Heritage Poultry Collective (https://www.hhpoultry.co.nz/). This is a great place to buy high-quality heritage breeds in New Zealand.
You can also find valuable resources and even hatching eggs from Facebook groups for poultry keepers, which offer a wealth of knowledge and tips from experienced breeders.
Would You Like to Learn More About Heritage Breeds in New Zealand?
If you’re keen to learn more about heritage breeds or want to find reliable sources for buying them, connecting with local chicken-keeping communities is a great idea. Facebook groups and online forums are excellent places to meet other poultry enthusiasts, share tips, and even find hatching eggs or birds for sale.
Local clubs and meetups are also valuable resources for anyone interested in raising heritage chickens, as they often provide hands-on advice and a sense of community.
There are several websites, books, and online resources available for those wanting to dive deeper into heritage chickens and sustainable farming practices.
Whether you’re interested in breeding, egg production, or raising dual-purpose chickens, these resources can help you on your journey to becoming a successful chicken keeper.
Happy chicken keeping!
Shop for:
