Our Commitment
Since 1994
Driven by our vision for the future
Since our establishment in 1994, Great Kiwi Yarns has always been driven by our vision for the future. Every decision we make, every route our business takes, we are always supported by the foundation of our values.
If you ask someone to picture New Zealand, the very first thing you imagine is the rolling green pastures of Aotearoa’s countryside, sunlight dappling the ground as flocks of sheep graze, and mountains lining the distant horizon. We’re proud of the vision our country inspires. We want to keep it as beautiful and serene as it has always been, and this is where our values grow from. If you’re here, then it’s most likely where your values grow from too.
What we stand for
Our values
Heritage
Hints from our past will always guide us in the future. It pays to remember history, especially when it comes to quality craftsmanship.
Authenticity
We value a straightforward and authentic approach to business, so what you see is always what you will get. While our garments may cost more than you are used to, the prices reflect our ethical approach to labour.
Durability
Fast fashion has a negative impact on our environment, so the clothes created are not made to last. At Great Kiwi Yarns, each garment we create is meant to last many lifetimes.
Sustainability
The respect for our unique environment here in New Zealand is, we believe, our responsibility. We encourage our suppliers to design products for a sustainable lifestyle and to minimise their impact on our land – sourcing sustainable wool and fibres has been at the core of our business for thirty years.
Craftsmanship
To believe in craftsmanship is to believe in the quality of work, which is why you can be assured every garment you purchase is ethically made to the highest of standards.
Respect for land
Aotearoa is a unique corner of the world for which we hold deep respect. Our practices will always reflect our care and consideration for both the land and those who reside upon it.
Our suppliers
Genuine, award-winning Kiwi designers
Our vision is to support the growth of New Zealand’s fashion, farming and retail industries through our luxury knitwear, bringing heritage garments to the fore and eschewing fast fashion in favour of high-quality, premium craftsmanship. Every material we use is sustainably sourced from local farmers, and our garments are always designed to exhibit the full beauty of our natural fibres.
We are proud to have one of our most talented suppliers as the first fashion company in the world to be recognised by the United Nations for sustainability.
We are thankful to our customers, both local and international – they enable us to continue our journey of sustainable fashion, and connect us every day with people who share our values.
ZQ-certified wool and fibre suppliers
Most of our finest suppliers are ZQ-certified, meaning the merino sheep providing the wool are ethically treated with care and live healthy lives in open pasture. The yarn is longer, with a more refined feel and a more robust, resistant fibre – so you’re guaranteed wool of the highest quality.
Ethically made, locally sourced luxury knitwear
Join a community of Great Kiwi Yarns customers from all over the world. Browse our merino jumpers, wool cardigans, wool jackets and beanies – New Zealand made.