About
Glengarry Poll Dorsets
Our Farm
Breeding Sheep Responsibly Since 1905
"William Thomas Pratt:
A native of Westmorland, England, Tom Pratt came to New Zealand just after the turn of the century and travelled to the Manawatu area searching out the prospects of farming pursuits.
He first settled at Awahou North in the Pohangina Valley and after two years he arranged for his wife and eldest daughter to join him. On the arrival of Mrs. Pratt and her daughter they continued to reside at Awahou North for a little time then moved to Apiti in 1905. Here Mr. Pratt took up a section which he developed and farmed until his retirement to Palmerston North.
​
He was distinctly successful in his farming pursuits in Apiti and Rangiwahia and for 30 years acted as fat stock buyer for Messrs Sims, Cooper Ltd. Being deeply interested in sheep, Mr. Pratt saw possibilities in the use of such breeds as Dorset Horn and Suffolk. Actually, he was responsible for introducing the Dorset Horn in the Manawatu and was an acknowledged judge of this breed. He also imported Suffolk sheep and exhibited these at several shows in the North Island.
​
His descendants are still farming in the district."
​
-An extract from the book "Apiti! Where's That?" written by Ivan George gives insight into the history and the man behind the beginning of a great legacy.
​
​
Our Story
First Poll Dorset Sheep for NZ.
The history of the Glengarry Poll Dorset Stud spans back to 1905 when the first Dorset Horn was introduced to the Manawatu.
​
There has been further use of Australian Genetics over the years to provide an outcross of high performance sires. (Rams from Valma, Kurralea, Hillcroft Farms, Ivadene & Meat Elite have been used).
​
In 1976 Ross Pratt introduced the performance recording aspect to the stud which has enabled the stud to achieve the high status it now has.
​
Today Ben Pratt continues to have the same high performance standards, but is also bringing the element of easy care to the flock.
