Federated Farmers says Kāinga Ora’s decision to categorically rule out use of woollen carpets in social housing is a total slap in the face for struggling Kiwi sheep farmers.

“It’s incredibly disappointing and shortsighted for Kāinga Ora to not even consider a woollen option for these homes,” says Federated Farmers meat & wool chair Toby Williams says.

“For the Government to choose a fossil fuel-derived synthetic carpet over a sustainable New Zealand-grown woollen product, just because it’s cheaper, is an absolute shocker.”

“Farmers just want a level playing field, but we were totally shut out of this process with no clear reason why.”

It’s not often BayBuzz agrees with Fed Farmers, but it seems they have a strong point here.

For Kāinga Ora to specifically exclude bids for wool carpeting is inexplicable. It seems foolish on its face. An abuse of due process and diligence, whatever the pros and cons.

We asked HB local Kara Biggs, general manager for Campaign for Wool NZ, to weigh in on the issue. Here’s what she had to say:

“Kāinga Ora’s decision is hugely disappointing, and another low blow for New Zealand’s strong wool growers. Last year’s coalition agreement gave our growers a clear message of hope and encouragement stating that government agencies should preference the use of wool fibres in government buildings where practical. It’s unfortunate that Kāinga Ora has decided against home-grown wool carpets, opting for harmful synthetic options instead.  

“Moreover, Kāinga Ora’s Request for Proposal document specifically excluded wool carpet manufacturers from submitting proposals. We are confused as to why Kāinga Ora would explicitly refuse to let wool carpet manufacturers be part of the process. It simply doesn’t make sense, so we think some clarity around this for our growers and brand partners is warranted.

“This RFP is about procuring products for the homes of New Zealand’s most disadvantaged people.  We understand that cost-effectiveness needs to be considered, but is Kāinga Ora saying that they will overlook health and safety in search of the cheapest price?  

“Wool carpets are naturally fire retardant, so if a wool carpet is involved in a fire it won’t burn easily like a nylon carpet. And there are no toxic fumes emitted in the fire – unlike a burnt nylon carpet. Also, wool carpets are hypoallergenic which is better for allergy sufferers than synthetic carpet. Wool carpets have no microplastics to inhale or ingest. They absorb moisture, decreasing mould and mildew in a home, and provide a natural filter against a range of air pollutants. 

“Nylon carpets offer none of these health benefits so it is difficult to understand Kāinga Ora’s rationale.  

“We think the RFP should be reopened, allowing wool carpet manufacturers to submit their proposals. We think Kāinga Ora should put the ‘effective’ into cost-effective and ensure New Zealanders’ health and safety is part of the equations when refitting these homes. 

“Finally, visibility of the decision-making criteria for the RPF would be helpful. We all need to know exactly what boxes need to be ticked in order for wool products to be given the opportunity to be laid in government and public buildings.”

Amen!