Peel Forest Deer Milk
In 2016, under the pioneering guidance of expert deer and dairy farmers Mark Faulks and Graham Carr, the first drops of deer milk were extracted from the hinds. From that point on, our journey of developing a premium milking herd, new systems, protocols, compliance, research, product development, continued investment and hard work from our small and passionate team, has continued to this day.
Our vision is for Peel Forest Deer Milk:
To harvest the World’s most premium milk from our deer, and manufacture one of natures most powerful natural ingredients for health and wellness.
Award Winners
In 2025, Deer Milking NZ was honoured with the Technology & Innovation Award, recognising our dedication to pioneering advancements in the emerging field of deer milking — a truly unique, rare, and premium innovation that sets a new benchmark for global excellence.
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Graham Carr + Rebecca Davidson
Founder + CEO
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Simon Wakefield
Global Head of Deer Milking
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Mark Faulks
Co-Founder
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Dan Prattley
Global Head of Sales & Commercial
The Milking Shed
The milking shed is designed so it can milk 40-50 hinds per hour. Each hind will produce approximately one litre of milk per day. Only a handful of deer milkers have been trained to undertake this specialist task.
The deer are milked from December to April. Our milking operation and processes, ensure animal and milker welfare is guaranteed, as well as efficient milk production, to a world class standard.
Our Deer
It quickly became apparent that you can’t just milk any deer. Over the years, through a process of careful selection and elimination, we have identified an optimum herd of hinds who are calm and efficient during the milking process.
This genetic line of carefully selected hinds will now also be a breeding pedigree.
Our Milk
What does deer milk taste like?
Rich, creamy, and velvety smooth — deer milk has a naturally full-bodied texture thanks to its high fat and protein content.
But beyond the taste, what truly sets deer milk apart is its unique nutritional profile. Scientific analysis has revealed rare and powerful bioactive compounds, making it an exceptional ingredient for innovation in the global nutraceutical and skincare industries.
Click here to find out about health benefits.
Compliance
Deer milking is a new industry in New Zealand and it is not known that any other countries are commercially milking red deer. Our small and resilient team have been working relentlessly with the Ministry of Primary Industries, auditors, research partners and other relevant organisations to ensure the on-farm systems, milk processing and product output is compliant for future commercial opportunity.
This work is ongoing and we will continue to break down barriers to ensure there is a future for deer milking.
