New Zealand (US)
The New Zealand rabbit in United States usage is a large commercial breed developed in America and recognized early in the twentieth century. It is strongly associated with meat production, laboratory and teaching herds, and show breeding, with white, red, black, blue, and broken varieties appearing in modern American contexts. A correct New Zealand has a deep body, firm flesh, upright ears, and a practical type built around growth and handling rather than ornament.
People keeping New Zealands usually value predictable size, useful litter traits, and a calm working temperament, but the breed still needs daily attention to flooring, teeth, heat, and body condition like any large rabbit. White New Zealands are common in production lines, while red or broken animals may come from more exhibition-focused families. Color alone does not prove breed identity; body type, mature weight, and breeder documentation matter when selecting stock.
Colors: Agouti, Albino, Black, Blue, Broken, Charlie, Chestnut, Chinchilla, Chocolate, Cream, Fawn, Harlequin, Himalayan, Lilac, Lynx, Magpie, Marten, Opal, Orange, Otter, Pointed White, Red, Sable, Seal, Squirrel, Tortoise, Tri-Color, Vienna Marked, White
