The Kiko breed was established by crossbreeding selected wild New Zealand goat does with Anglo Nubian, Toggenburg and Saanen bucks, and further cross-breeding in the second and third generations. After four generations of selective breeding, a dramatic improvement in live weight and animal performance was achieved. By 1986 the Kiko breed was established and the herd was closed to further cross-breeding.

Kiko goats are genetically capable of high levels of meat production and can produce well under the wide range of conditions in which they have been tested in New Zealand and overseas countries. They are a suitable breed to introduce to countries seeking a better breed of meat goat. They are also an “improver” breed that can add size, growth rate and milk production to native stock without reducing hardiness.

The word “Kiko” comes from the Maoris of New Zealand and means “meat for eating or consumption” - and that doesn't necessarily mean goat meat.

The primary characteristic of the Kiko goat is its hardiness and its ability to achieve substantial weight gains when run under natural conditions without supplemental feeding. Most importantly, the female is capable of conceiving, carrying and giving birth to and rearing multiple offspring without intervention under less than ideal conditions. The Kiko goat is well known for its exceptional maternal instincts and the ability of the new born to survive with minimum intervention. The Kiko is an aggressive forager and exhibits the ability to carry a heavy parasite load. We are committed to the continued development of these characteristics.

The Kiko is large framed, generally white (although many Kikos carry genes for color and colored Kikos are capable of registration) with a coat that ranges from slick in summer to flowing hair when run in mountain country in winter.

Kiko Goats produce lean but juicy and tender meat, with a carcass yield of 50 to 60 percent! Usually, Kiko Goats are slaughtered at 100 days of age, or 20 kilograms.

Usually, females weigh around 65 kilograms at two years of age. The does have females have impressive, well-attached udders.

Does may be bred at six to eight months of age and they almost always have twins.

Kiko does do not need assistance in birthing. Kids are medium sized and extremely vigorous when born and Kiko does have very good maternal instincts. They encourage their newborns to feed immediately and will defend their young from predators.

Usually, males weigh around 190 kilograms at two years of age, and females weigh around 145 pounds. Males tend to have impressive horns.

Bucks reach sexual maturity at six months of age.