Bubbles was one of the last calves of the late Braco Gaisgach Geal - more fondly known as "Gazza" - a very well known stud bull from Bonnie Brae Fold in Waiuku.

Instantly recognisable by their long hair and impressive horns Highlands are known for their easy going natures and their ability to thrive under harsh conditions.      

Over the last century Highland Cattle, both in their country of origin and overseas, have been valued at least as much for their historic associations and ‘romantic’ appearance as for their utility and in New Zealand cream-red seems to be the colour of preference with breeders –although the dun and black are not uncommon.

The distinctive long coat consists of two coats – a short very fine undercoat and a long shaggy overcoat.  The double layer keeps snow and moisture away from the body of the animal while insulating them from warmth.

In Scotland Highlands were used for milking but here in the anitpodes they are used for beef and showing. 

Highlands are an excellent choice for poorer pasture as they effectively convert roughage to low cholesterol, well flavoured meat.  They have a good live weight to carcase ratio and s side effect of having an effective overcoat is the lack of heavy subcutaneous fat for warmth.  Fat is distributed more evenly throughout the muscle giving the meat a fine, rich flavour and texture.

The Highlands long coat consists of a short fine undercoat and shaggy overcoat.

Tui, queen of Scots, the pride of Bonnie Brae Fold.

Calves are often left on mothers for up to seven  months, although Phil McCarthy of Hinterland Fold has found that sometimes weaning them a little earlier helps the calf to improve condition. “Sometimes calves are just happy to take milk and they don’t eat as much so taking them off mum makes them concentrate on feeding better.”

Considered to be a comparatively slow maturing breed cows are usually not put to the bull until they are about three and are generally easy calvers, with a strong maternal instinct.

Highland milk has a butter fat ration of 7 – 10% - compared to most dairy breeds of 4 – 7%.

The New Zealand Highland Cattle Society was formed in 1993 and is very active with councillors and members throughout the country.