TERMINAL RAMS
We understand that for many farmers, changing the foundation of their maternal flock is a big decision.
The terminal pathway allows you to introduce Headwaters genetics through your terminal mating, while retaining the maternal flock you already know and trust.
It’s a great way to explore Headwaters and connect eligible lambs with LUMINA - without changing your entire breeding programme.
LUMINA is our premium lamb brand, connecting the lamb produced by Headwaters farmers with premium markets around the world. Renowned for its consistently tender, succulent eating quality, LUMINA is produced exclusively from lambs bred with Headwaters genetics and finished under specific programme requirements.
It is deliberately positioned at the top end of the global market, served in leading restaurants, luxury hotels and premium hospitality destinations around the world.
We can take control and sell on value, not just volume - and our farmers share in the rewards.
Why supply LUMINA?
It's about creating more value
from the lambs you produce.
By combining our genetics, on-farm management and access to a premium end market, the supply programme gives farmers the opportunity to be rewarded for producing lambs that consistently meet LUMINA specifications.
1
Premium returns
Earn a premium above the standard Alliance Ground processing schedule for eligible, in-spec LUMINA lambs.
2
Premium market access
Connect the lambs you produce with a New Zealand premium brand you can be proud of positioned in high-end markets around the world.
3
Community support
Work alongside the Headwaters team and other farmers, with support across breeding, finishing and supply.
4
Insights & feedback
Gain greater visibility of how your lambs perform, with information that can help inform decisions back on farm.
Premium Returns
For every qualifying LUMINA lamb, the farmer receives the current Alliance Group schedule price plus the LUMINA premium.
Of the 212,000 LUMINA lambs processed in the 2025/26 season, 94% met supply requirements and earned the premium.
2024/25 Farmer Return:
Alliance Schedule + $23.50/lamb LUMINA Premium
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Why Headwaters genetics?
Headwaters has spent almost 20 years developing genetics with both the farmer and the end consumer in mind.
We breed with the whole value chain in mind - balancing the traits that drive productive, efficient sheep on farm with the eating quality that defines LUMINA lamb.
Our breeding focus is on:
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Body condition
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Reproductive performance
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Parasite resilience
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Intramuscular fat and polyunsaturated fatty acids
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Growth rates
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Structural soundness
Limited terminal ram numbers available.
