Independent Cavy Clubs NZ | Guinea Pigs NZ

THE INDEPENDENT CAVY CLUBS IN NEW ZEALAND

The Leading National Network for Every Pedigree and Pet Guinea Pigs

The roots of the New Zealand cavy fancy run deep. Since the very first official club meeting in

January 1976

, Kiwi enthusiasts have dedicated themselves to breeding, showing, and safeguarding both New Zealand-developed and imported pedigree guinea pig breeds. Today, our network of independent cavy clubs proudly serves as the country’s leading infrastructure, continuing this

50-year legacy

with absolute professionalism and integrity.

The

Independent Cavy Clubs

stand as the vital lifeblood of New Zealand’s rare and unique guinea pig community. We offer a progressive platform where dedicated fanciers, exhibitors, and pet owners can thrive. It is exclusively within these sanctioned spaces that incredible, homegrown Kiwi breeds, such as the

Tweed

and the

Panda

receive the formal recognition, focused genetic development, and show-bench representation they truly deserve.

At the core of the independent cavy movement is a steadfast commitment to an inclusive, educational, and family-friendly atmosphere. Our network seamlessly bridges the gap between elite pedigree exhibitors and passionate pet owners, welcoming anyone who shares a dedication to the welfare and advancement of all guinea pigs. Explore our affiliated clubs below to connect with local communities, access upcoming championship show schedules, and meet the registered breeders keeping New Zealand's rich cavy history alive.

HONOURING OUR FOUNDATIONAL PEDIGREE HISTORY

Celebrating 50 years of passion, dedication, and pedigree history

The rich heritage of the New Zealand cavy fancy officially began in

1976

, when purebred guinea pigs were first imported into the country from England by UK all-breeds judge Jack Whitworth. To support these arrivals, New Zealand's very first cavy club was formed in Wellington in

January 1976

, named the

New Zealand Cavy Club

Fifty years later, that foundational club is still going strong today as an

Independent Cavy Club

. Because imported pedigree stock was very limited back then, passionate local breeders in Wellington immediately set to work creating original, homegrown varieties. In January 1976, both the

New Zealand Plume

and the

New Zealand Peruvian

pedigree breeds were created. Full show standards were meticulously drawn up for both, providing the vital spark that launched the entire New Zealand cavy fancy.

From those early days, Jack Whitworth began training judges to the English standard, leading to the establishment of the

New Zealand Cavy Judges Association (NZCJA)

. Today, our independent cavy clubs continue to hold all of their pedigree shows under the official rules and show standards regulated by the NZCJA. Independent clubs have always proudly supported all pedigree breeds, welcoming and championing them no matter their country of origin and ensuring our unique Kiwi breeds are always celebrated right alongside imported breeds.