Post-shearing exposure insurance for sheep in NZ. Why freshly shorn sheep are vulnerable and what coverage protects against weather-related losses.
Post-Shearing Exposure: A Critical NZ Risk
Post-shearing exposure is one of the most common causes of sheep deaths in New Zealand. When sheep are shorn, they lose their protective wool coat entirely — leaving them vulnerable to cold, wet, and windy conditions that their wool would normally keep them warm through.
A sudden southerly change after shearing can cause significant losses within hours. This is a risk that occurs every year on NZ sheep farms.
Why Standard Mortality Cover Often Doesn't Cover This
Standard livestock mortality cover is designed for acute events like accidents, lightning, and drowning. Weather-related deaths from post-shearing exposure fall into a grey area that many policies exclude or apply conditions to.
FMG's farm pack specifically includes post-shearing exposure cover as an add-on — this is a NZ-specific innovation that recognises a uniquely NZ farming risk.
What Post-Shearing Exposure Cover Provides
Typical cover includes:
When Is the Risk Highest?
Post-shearing exposure risk is highest:
How to Activate Cover
If you have FMG farm pack with post-shearing exposure cover:
A licensed NZ rural insurance adviser can help you structure your sheep cover to include post-shearing exposure and ensure it's activated correctly.
