Te Whiringa Circuit 2025–2026
“Te Whiringa – The Weaving of Us All”
Senior Grade Shearing Competition Circuit
The Te Whiringa Circuit 2025–2026 continues to build on the momentum of its inaugural season, providing a structured, culturally enriched competition designed to uplift senior shearers across Aotearoa’s North Island. This initiative champions sustainability, skill development, and unity — integrating Te Reo Māori, mentorship pathways, and employment opportunities to ensure a thriving, future-focused shearing industry.
Following the successful 2024–2025 season and the crowning of champion Laura Bradley, this year’s circuit aims to expand participation, strengthen partnerships, and celebrate excellence in both craftsmanship and community.
Vision & Purpose
“Te Whiringa” translates to “the weaving of us all,” symbolising unity and interconnectedness. This circuit represents the woven bonds between shearers, hosts, sponsors, and iwi, guided by the values of:
- Kotahitanga – Unity and collective purpose
- Manaakitanga – Care, hospitality, and mutual respect
- Whanaungatanga – Building relationships and kinship
Together, these values create a platform for learning, growth, and excellence — empowering shearers to advance their careers while strengthening community ties.
Circuit Structure
The Te Whiringa Circuit will include 14 senior-grade competitions & 23 shearing contractors from across the North Island, culminating in a grand final at the Waimarino Shears.
Qualification Requirements
- Competitors must participate in at least 10 of the 14 competitions.
- Points are accumulated from each event, with the top 6 scores counting towards final standings.
- The top 4 competitors will qualify for the Te Whiringa Final at Waimarino Shears.
Points System
Points are awarded from heats only at each participating competition.
Note: Double points apply exclusively to the Senior Grade heats at Waimarino Shears, rewarding both skill and commitment.
Prizes and Recognition
To celebrate excellence and dedication, prizes will be distributed throughout the circuit and at the final.
Circuit Prizes
- 4× Heiniger Handpieces
- 10 packets of 5 combs done up by V8 combs
- 8× MKM Original Packs (Tasman Jersey & Wool Singlet)
- 4× Allbirds Shoe Packs
- Heiniger Ambassador mentorship session
Grand Final Winner’s Prize
6-week Employment Contract Agreement with Shear Pride (Western Australia) – including return flights (Aug–Nov 2026) valued at $2,000.00.
*Should the winner become unavailable to commit to the employment contract – this prize will be offered down to 2nd place and thereon after to determine a recipient
Prize Money (Total Pool $1,500):
- 1st – $600
- 2nd – $400
- 3rd – $300
- 4th – $200
Competition Partners
2025–2026 Competition Schedule & Prizes
- Download
V8 Shearing Combs Prizes
V8 Shearing Combs has been operating since 2010, supplying high-quality shearing combs for all levels of competition and shed work. The range covers everything from shed combs to record combs and show combs, supporting shearers from novice level through to Open and Golden Shears champions.
Below is an outline of the competitor combs prepared for the Te Whiringa Senior Circuit, along with the shapes included in the senior prize pool:
Prize Pool Breakdown
- 1 × A
- 1 × B
- 1 × B Endless
- 1 × C
- 1 × C Endless
The A, B, and C shapes progress from an A-tip radius through to a C-tip radius.
- A Shape: The fastest-running option.
- B & C Shapes: Feature a rounder tip radius, providing smoother entry and improved performance on sheep.
The Endless versions have reduced back thickness, allowing the comb to sit lower and operate more effectively.
Partnerships
We acknowledge our Te Whiringa partners — including Heiniger, MKM Originals, Allbirds, Shear Pride, and shearing
competitions — for their commitment to fostering excellence, sustainability, and cultural unity.
We are also super excited to welcome our new partner V8 Combs – Ants Bryant to the Whiringa Whānau.
Shearing Contractor Partnerships
A new strand of partnership to now include shearing contractors is offered.
This inclusion will enhance the delivery of the circuit and increase the prize pool nationally to attract competitors to attend the competitions.
Shearing contractors will be allocated a competition as a dual partnership raising the profile of Te Whiringa.
Conclusion
The Te Whiringa Circuit 2025–2026 continues to weave together people, purpose, and performance, celebrating the artistry and endurance of Aotearoa’s shearers. Through unity, mentorship, and opportunity, the circuit strengthens not only individuals but the wider shearing whānau — ensuring the legacy of excellence continues across generations.