The Sheep Progeny Test is a long-standing and critical component of New Zealand’s sheep genetics system. The benchmarks created by this test underpin the NZGE – B+LNZ’s large-scale across-flock and breed evaluation.
The Sheep Central Progeny Test (CPT) is a long-running initiative that enables the benchmarking of rams by comparing the performance of their progeny under commercial farming conditions. Operating at two sites – Glenside Station in the Wairarapa and AgResearch’s Invermay station near Dunedin - the CPT selects around 20 sires annually from a mix of maternal and terminal breeds.
Its core purpose is to create genetic linkages across flocks and breeds that wouldn’t naturally occur in industry, strengthening the national genetic evaluation system (NZGE). By collecting information across a range of traits, the CPT provides valuable insights and breeding values that help both stud breeders and farmers make informed, confident genetic decisions.
Access all Progeny Test information and resources through the B+LNZ Knowledge Hub.