Welcome to Wilnoa Valais
New Zealand's Premier Valais Blacknose Sheep Stud
~ Middlehurst Station ~
About Wilnoa Valais
Breeding pure Valais in New Zealand since 2018
Wilnoa Valais is a partnership between Hedley John Exporters and Middlehurst Station, bringing together one of New Zealand’s leading stud sheep breeders and the country’s most experienced livestock exporter to deliver this remarkable sheep breed to the world.
Nestled in the stunning alpine region of the South Island, the Valais Blacknose at Middlehurst thrive in an environment reminiscent of their native Switzerland.
Since 2018, we have been passionately breeding purebred Valais Blacknose Sheep. Our commitment to exceptional care and thoughtful genetic selection ensures every animal in our flock receives the attention it deserves. We focus on preserving the defining traits of the Valais Blacknose, producing high‑quality breeding stock and healthy offspring.
Whether you’re looking to welcome these charming sheep to your farm, learn more about their heritage, or explore a joint venture, Wilnoa Valais offers a truly unique experience for every visitor.
Wilnoa in the USA
Wilnoa is a Joint Venture partner in Black Lion Valais. Originating in the UK, Black Lion is a premium brand, established in Kentucky to promote sheep's milk vodka (www.blacklionvodka.co.uk).
Valais represent a cornerstone to the Black Lion brand, with the stud showcasing the breed and presenting the best of Wilnoa genetics to the highest end of the USA market.
Export
New Zealand has some of the strictest biosecurity laws in the world to protect its disease-free status. As such, most countries accept livestock and germplasm exports from New Zealand, while many other countries are excluded.
We have exported Valais to Japan, Hong Kong, South Korea and the USA.