At the heart of Pilot Brands is an enthusiasm for natural, succulent meats that has set us apart for over 20 years. We add only our own exacting standards of trim, handling, and service to the simple qualities of the meat: stewardship of the land manifest in quality pastures; livestock reared as they evolved, grazing freely on verdant grasses with clean water and fresh air—a naturalness beyond trite definitions. We’re excited to present all of this to you in the superb meats we offer.
It's about great meat, and more. Our founder David Barkley, an astute visionary and second generation meat man, was keenly aware of the qualities these natural grass-fed meats presented. Recognizing the need for a higher standard of trim and consistency for the professional kitchen, David worked with top chefs to develop an award-winning attention to detail that characterizes the Pilot Brand difference, even today.
The land has a way of captivating entire generations. Norman, Demelza and Amy Thomas live on Mahana Station, near Gisborne on the east coast of New Zealand’s North Island. The 4th generation of the Thomas family to live on this picturesque ranch of rolling green hills, they pasture-raise sheep and beef, and have supplied lambs for the Pilot Brand for many years.
There are between 2,500 and 3,000 lambs born and raised on the station each year, mostly from Coopworth ewes crossed with either Suffolk or Poll Dorset rams. On the warm east coast of New Zealand, spring arrives early and lambing starts in July with most lambs grazed to market weight by mid January. A smaller number of lambs are grazed through to April and May, helping to ensure continuity of supply.
The Thomas family regard themselves as stewards of the land and employ sustainable farming practices—as have the generations before them. Soil care and fertility is maintained through rotation of legumes through new pasture (primarily rye grass and clover), and the careful application of natural fertilizers. Stock levels are closely managed to ensure animal well-being and avoid over-grazing.
There is never any use of antibiotics or growth hormones on animals raised on the station. This is a Pilot Brands promise.
Relationships Matter and Pilot Brands is proud to have long term partnerships with suppliers we trust, who share our belief and commitment to supplying only the very best grass-fed meats. The good folks at Ovation New Zealand are a case in point; with committed farmers and an attention to detail that meets our high standards, Ovation New Zealand has been the supplier of choice for our Pilot Brand New Zealand lamb for over 16 years. You can find out more about our friends down under at www.ovation.co.nz.
