Meet Marlborough shearer Angus Moore

Meet the Competitor: Angus Moore

Shearer, Contractor, Competitor — Marlborough-Based, NZ-Wide Ambitions
Moore Sheep Shearing Ltd | Proud Repost Ambassador

Tell us about you — who is Angus Moore?

I’m a Marlborough-based shearing contractor, running Moore Sheep Shearing Ltd alongside my wife, Ratapu. We’re both in the thick of the wool industry . During peak season, we manage a crew of over 10, travelling around the region shearing for farmers big and small. On weekends during the shearing circuit, you’ll usually find us somewhere on the shearing competition circuit, whether it’s an A&P show, a town hall, or a remote shed out in the hills.

What’s your connection to the rural sector?

It’s our everyday. Shearing’s not just work — it’s a way of life. We’re part of the engine room that keeps rural NZ running. You build strong connections with farmers and their land, fleece by fleece, paddock by paddock.

Did you grow up on a farm?

Yes 500 ha Sheep and Beef I found my way into the sheds early on. The first time I worked a full shearing run, I was hooked. There’s nothing quite like the buzz of a busy shed in full swing.

Any farmers in the family?

There’s a few, but now our own whānau is firmly planted in the shearing world. It’s how we work, how we compete, and how we raise our kids.

What do you like about shearing?

It’s real, physical work. You’ve got to earn every tally. When you hit your rhythm and the sheep are running smooth, there’s nothing better. And when you step back and see what your team’s knocked out in a day — that’s job satisfaction.

What’s the best part of the competition circuit?

The people and the pressure. You’re surrounded by the best in the game, and everyone’s there to give it their all. The skill level is unreal, and every comp teaches you something. There’s a big sense of community too — even your biggest rival might offer you a handpiece or a word of advice.

What’s the hardest part?

The mental game. At the top level, you can’t afford to lose focus for even a second. One awkward sheep or missed blow can cost you a placing. Then there’s the travel, the prep, and the pressure to perform — all while running a business and being a dad to six awesome kids.

How does your body handle it?

You’ve got to treat yourself like an athlete. Nutrition, hydration, rest, recovery — all of it matters. As I’ve got older, I’ve learnt to be smarter with how I train and how I listen to my body.

What training do you do?

I clock plenty of hours in the shed, but off-shed I train like it’s a sport — weights, cardio, mobility, and gear prep. Combs and handpieces get tuned like race gear — the better your setup, the better your shot on the board.

Is it a cool community?

One of the best. Supportive, competitive, and full of heart. Everyone knows the grind, and there’s huge respect for the effort it takes to step up and compete.

What do you do in your spare time?

Family time with my wife and six kids — that’s number one. When we’re not in the shed or on the road, it’s about reconnecting, relaxing, or working on gear in the workshop. Even in downtime, shearing’s never too far from my mind.

What’s your connection with Repost?

I’ve known Greg since I was a kid. I’ve been shearing their sheep ever since they bought the Springers Block — eight seasons now. I’ve seen firsthand how much heart and hard graft he and Dansy have poured into Repost. They’re offering practical, sustainable solutions for rural New Zealand, and I’m proud to be sponsored by them for this and next season as I chase my dream.

What would you say to someone keen on the shearing comp circuit?

Get involved. Turn up, watch the top hands, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to fail a few times. It’s a steep learning curve — but once you get the bug, you’ll never shake it. Every comp sharpens you.

Anything else worth sharing?

This season’s been a solid one — 14th at Gore, 4th at Masterton, and 2nd in the Open at Tekuiti. I’ve made the South Island team, competing in the North vs South event and the North Island Shearer of the Year. All these comps feed into potential selection for the 2026 World Shearing Champs in Masterton.

At the end of this run, Ratapu and I will sit down and decide if we’re all-in for the Worlds. If we are, it’ll mean more training, more investment in gear, and more early mornings. But the dream’s alive — and having Repost backing me makes the journey even more worthwhile.