Proudly Supporting the New Zealand Unique & Rare Guinea Pigs Club

At Mamaku and Tintola Guinea Pigs, our dedication to the New Zealand Plume and New Zealand Peruvian goes far beyond our own studs. We are deeply committed to the survival, advocacy, and celebration of all homegrown Kiwi pedigree breeds. To us, these rare, heritage cavies are living national treasures that deserve to be protected and treated with the highest prestige. Because we believe so passionately in this mission, we are proud, active preservationists working closely with the New Zealand Unique & Rare Guinea Pigs Club.
NZ Unique & Rare Guinea Pigs Club

Serving as Club Secretary

Hi, I am Jen, the founder of Tintola Cavy Stud. Alongside my hands-on preservation work at home, I am privileged to serve as the official Club Secretary for the New Zealand Unique and Rare Guinea Pigs Club.My role as Secretary allows me to turn my passion for cavy genetics and heritage preservation into active support for our community. Whether I am managing formal club correspondence, archiving national exhibition results, or helping enthusiasts register their stud names in our official Preservation Breeders' Directory, I am always here to help guide the future of the cavy fancy in New Zealand.

The Breeds We Advocate For

The word "Unique" has a very specific meaning within our club. It defines the five distinct pedigree varieties that were originally created right here in New Zealand by local fanciers and achieved official show standards through the New Zealand Cavy Judges Association:

  • The New Zealand Plume – Formally developed in 1976, featuring the iconic vertical mohawk ridge and a high-arched Rooster Tail.

  • The New Zealand Peruvian – A magnificent long-coated variety defined by a radiating central star rosette on the lower back.

  • The Tweed – Known for its beautiful, precise chocolate & white hair distribution and distinct chocolate mask.

  • The Panda – A striking variety featuring crisp white hair contrasted against dark skin and eyes.

  • The Bonnet – A historic ruffed variety originating right here in Whangārei, currently the focus of dedicated revival efforts.

The club also steps in to support and protect internationally imported rare varieties facing vulnerability within New Zealand, such as the beautiful Dark Eyed White.