• About Us

    About Us

Whats up with Rising Sun

Rising Sun

I’m a bit of celebrity around the farm and on social media. My fleece is super soft and luxurious, but even more than that, I’m apparently a one-of-a-kind, perfect specimen of an alpaca! I’m also as lovable as I am handsome, so pop into Shamarra Alpacas for a tour and a pat.

Whats up with Harlequin

Harlequin

A glamorous damsel through and through, I’m a big fan of being groomed well ahead of a photo op (your next selfie on a farm tour). My big eyes look even better when my fleece is on fleek. And I’ve been known to wear the odd denim jacket or hat, depending on the season.

But don’t be intimidated by my flair for fashion; I’m always up for a solid cuddle like my other friends.

Whats up with Tornado

Tornado

I absolutely adore wee human kiddos and alpaca babies alike! Arguably the friendliest of all the furry faces here at Shamarra, I like to get visits and snuggles year-round.

Two decades on the Caribbean island of St. Maarten, couldn’t quell Frank and Anya Walkington’s thirst for adventure. New Zealand beckoned after a brief holiday, and 24 acres near Auckland became their canvas.

Instead of cows, they bet on alpacas – charismatic creatures known for their gentle nature and those enchanting eyes. This leap into alpaca territory led to an intriguing journey into genetics and fleece, firmly tying them to the NZ Alpaca Association.

Then came 2011, and the couple relocated to French Farm, Banks Peninsula, just an hour from Christchurch. With a background in the cruise ship industry, they spotted an opening to introduce their majestic alpacas to global tourists. Leveraging the alpacas’ fleece, Anya collaborated with local knitters, birthing Shamarra Alpaca Farm Tours & Shop – a venture offering exclusive alpaca knitwear and farm tours, complete with up-close encounters with these lovable creatures.

As tourist numbers surged, the shop evolved to meet commercial demands. Today, they process a staggering three tonnes of alpaca fleece biennially, sourced exclusively from New Zealand and Australia. Their obsession with genetics and breeding ensures premium, low-micron alpaca fleece, resulting in irresistibly soft, luxurious products.

Their passion for genetics doesn’t end there; it’s the lifeblood of their operation. With over 160 alpacas, Shamarra exports progeny across Europe, the UK, and Australia, earning them accolades at A&P Shows throughout New Zealand. Their story is a testament to an unwavering love for alpacas and an unyielding commitment to excellence.

I Chen – farm manager

Hi my name is I Chen, originally from Taiwan and now living my best Akaroa life!

I have been working with different animals for few years, but my love for alpacas started around 6 years ago when I first came to New Zealand. These adorable fuzzy guys have quickly become my favorite animal to work with.

I know each of the Shamarra Alpaca residents inside and out, and am always ecstatic to help you see their varying personalities and tell you myriad stories about these fun creatures on the farm. Soon enough you’ll be just as much in love with alpacas as I am!

Jenny

Hi, I’m Ching-Ni but you can call me Jenny. I’m head over heels for alpacas, the proud mum to Kai, and happily married to I Chen.

Not only do I get to enjoy the company of these gentle creatures every day, but I also have the privilege of being an alpaca farm tour guide. It’s not just a job, it’s my passion. Come experience the magic with me!

Akari

Hello, I’m Akari from Tokyo Japan! The city I came from is well known as a business place. I have been looking for peaceful places in nature, and finally I found this beautiful place, Shamarra Alpacas.

If I could see heaven, I believe this would be the place looks like. I’m lucky to be around the beautiful friendly animal, Alpaca. Join our tour, you will be amazed their cuteness!

Jess

Hey there! I’m Jess from Malaysia, where we have three seasons: hot, hotter, and are-you-kidding-me hot!

Now, I’m in this awesome place where I’ve fallen in love with alpacas. Who knew these fluffy, quirky creatures could bring so much joy? Don’t worry if an alpaca walks away from you—they do the same to me, and I feed them and pick up their poo! But hey, there’s always another one ready for a selfie!

Alex

Meet Alex Walkington, daughter and our social media and marketing maestro. As a cornerstone of our family business, Alex excels in various roles, from assisting farm tours, helping out with animal husbandry and showing our alpacas at shows. Her dedication ensures that our values of care and community shine through in everything we do.

In line with our commitment to being a family-run business, Alex’s expertise in social media and marketing has significantly expanded our outreach. Outside of work, Alex and Bobby are proud mum to and dad to Frankie, a future alpaca farmer!

Shamarra Alpacas view over Akaroa
  • “The scenery from where we interacted with the alpacas was stunning. We met the males and females separately - with the males, we patted and gave them hugs. Then towards the end, we hand fed the female alpacas. The kind guides refilled our bowls when we ran out and we could feed the cuties until our session ended. Shoutout to Jess and Akira for making the whole experience such a memorable one! Was super duper impressed that they could recognise what seems like all of the alpacas by name etc. Both of them also very kindly offered to help my husband and I take photos/videos :) Highly recommended to those who are considering visiting!”

    Jo, Google Review – September 2024

  • “The highlight of our trip. The farm is well run and the alpacas are beyond cute. Amazing drive from Christchurch and spectacular views when we got there.”

    Sonica, Klook – July 2024

  • Amazing experience! The alpacas are so cute. The staff is really dedicated to the animals and you can feel the passion for them. The view from the farm is stunning. They took really care of me and gave me a good time with the alpaca. I highly recommend this tour for each and everyone (solo traveller, group or family).

    Marc, Google Review – August 2024

  • “Visited today for the full hands on experience with feeding and patting the alpacas. We were a couple minutes late and they accommodated for us even with the large group of people present. The staff are all very friendly and passionate about what they do which made it even better.”

    Kevin, Google Review – August 2024

  • “We took our kids here during the school holidays it was the highlight of their break. The location is stunning. The staff were very friendly, helpful and seem to really love what they do. As for the alpacas, INCREDIBLE animals! It was such a treat getting to mingle with them and see their different personalities.”

    Jodie, Bookme – July 2024

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