Independent Cavy Clubs NZ | Guinea Pigs NZ

THE INDEPENDENT CAVY MOVEMENT IN NEW ZEALAND

For

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 New Zealand and imported pedigree guinea pig breeds. Today, our network of independent cavy clubs proudly continues this 50-year legacy.

Independent cavy clubs are the vital lifeblood of New Zealand’s rare and unique guinea pig community. We offer a dynamic, progressive, and welcoming platform where dedicated fanciers can thrive. It is within these supportive spaces that incredible, homegrown Kiwi breeds, such as the Tweed and the Panda receive the passionate recognition, focused development, and show-bench representation they truly deserve.

At the heart of the independent cavy movement is a deep commitment to a supportive, family-friendly, and educational atmosphere. These clubs perfectly bridge the gap between elite pedigree exhibitors and everyday pet owners, welcoming anyone who shares a love for all guinea pigs.

Explore the clubs below to connect with passionate local communities, discover upcoming shows, and meet the breeders keeping New Zealand's 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

o 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 alongside imported breeds.