The Government has supported the world’s first clinical sleep trial testing how New Zealand strong-wool bedding performs against synthetic alternatives.
The three-year, NZD two million sleep science research programme has NZD 800,000 from the Primary Sector Growth Fund and is led by Wisewool.
The project will test real people in their own homes and in sleep laboratories to measure how New Zealand strong-wool bedding performs against synthetic alternatives. It will assess sleep latency, body temperature regulation, breathability, moisture management, hypoallergenic performance and overall user comfort.
Agriculture Minister Todd McClay said the project was a major opportunity for New Zealand’s wool sector.
“Scientifically validating wool’s sleep benefits will allow strong-wool to command a premium, positioning it as a high-performance natural alternative to foam, synthetics, feathers and cotton,” said McClay.
“Working with leading sleep researchers to provide credible evidence will open doors in international markets.”
The project was built on earlier government support that helped Wisewool develop its premium wool bud filler for furniture and bedding products. Wisewool has already paid Tairāwhiti East Coast farmers a 50-cent premium for every kilogram of raw wool they supply.
“The company aims to process 30 million kilograms of wool across the North Island over the next decade. Achieving this will require sourcing a significant share of New Zealand’s strong wool from all over the country. This project is critical to making that vision a reality.”
Rural Communities Minister Mark Patterson said that the investment reflected the government’s commitment to rural communities.
“This is exactly the kind of innovation New Zealand needs – science-led, sustainability-driven and delivering real value for farmers. The long-term potential for regional growth is significant,” said Patterson.
“Proving the premium sleep case for New Zealand strong-wool lifts demand and farmgate returns right across the sector, from growers through to exporters. We expect this project to create a competitive advantage for New Zealand wool, driving increased demand and profitability.”
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