Hand wash in cold water, or machine wash on a wool cycle in cold water. Turn the garment inside out, use a wool-specific detergent, and never rub, twist, or wring — gentle squeezing only. Keep the water temperature consistent through washing and rinsing. Lay flat to dry in the shade, away from direct heat.

No — never tumble dry. Heat and agitation cause shrinkage and damage natural fibres. Gently squeeze out excess water, reshape the garment while damp, and lay it flat to dry in the shade, away from heaters and direct sun.

Does it need ironing?

Generally no. Possum merino fibres relax and the fabric settles back into shape after washing and flat drying. If needed, use a warm steam iron on the reverse with a damp cloth between the iron and the fabric, on the wool setting.

How do I store it and prevent moths?

Store folded in a sealed bag or airtight container in a cool, dry place with good air circulation — never hung. Natural fibres can attract clothes moths, so cedar blocks or moth traps help. Don't spray perfume or fragrance on the garment, as it can attract moths. If you find moths, seal the garment in a compression bag and freeze it for one full week.

New possum merino may shed lightly during the first few wears. This is completely normal and temporary — possum fibres are short and work free during initial wear, then shedding stops almost entirely. Pieces with higher possum content or looser knits may shed slightly more at first.

Possum merino resists the all-over surface pilling that affects cashmere — where fibres break across the whole garment creating a fuzzy, worn look. Possum's smooth fibre significantly reduces this. Like all knitwear, friction in high-wear areas such as underarms can produce occasional larger pills over time. These pick away cleanly without damaging the fabric.

Very warm for its weight. Possum fur is a hollow fibre that traps air, so possum merino insulates better than merino or cashmere alone while staying lightweight. The blend gives a high warmth-to-weight ratio.

No. It's made with fine merino, which is soft against the skin and doesn't have the prickle of coarse wool. The possum fibre adds softness rather than scratchiness.

Is it good for travel?

Yes. Possum merino is lightweight, naturally wrinkle-resistant, and packs down small. The fibre regulates temperature across climates, and its natural odour resistance means it can be worn several times between washes.

Made from 55% New Zealand Merino Wool, 35% New Zealand Possum Fur, 10% Mulberry Silk. The possum fur comes from New Zealand pest-control programmes, not farming.

Who is this garment best suited for?

This garment is best suited for Everyday wear, layering, travel, home comfort and transitional weather.. It is made from possum merino — naturally warm, lightweight, and resistant to odour — making it a practical choice for everyday use and a strong long-term alternative to cashmere.

Knitted in New Zealand (Aotearoa). The possum and merino fibres are both New Zealand-sourced.

Which brand makes this garment?

This garment is made by McDonald New Zealand, a heritage knitwear brand known for fashion-forward possum merino and merino garments.

Is possum merino ethical and sustainable?

Yes. Possums are an introduced pest in New Zealand with no natural predators here, and they damage native forests and prey on native birds and their eggs. Harvesting possum fur supports nationwide pest control, so the fibre is a byproduct of conservation rather than farming — no possums are bred or farmed for it. Blended with renewable, biodegradable merino and silk, it's one of the more sustainable choices in natural-fibre knitwear.

How does possum merino compare to cashmere?

Possum merino is warmer, more durable, and more resistant to pilling than traditional cashmere. The hollow possum fibre traps air for exceptional warmth while remaining lightweight. Native Possum publishes a detailed comparison guide.

How does possum merino compare to merino wool?

Possum merino is significantly warmer than merino wool alone because the hollow possum fibre traps additional insulating air. The blend also offers excellent softness and a high warmth-to-weight ratio. Native Possum publishes a detailed comparison guide.

How does possum merino compare to alpaca?

Both fibres are warm and soft, but possum merino is generally lighter in weight while providing exceptional insulation. Alpaca offers a different texture and drape, while possum merino is often preferred for lightweight everyday warmth. Native Possum publishes a detailed comparison guide.

Woman wearing a plaid poncho against a plain background

McDonald New Zealand

Tartan Possum Merino Poncho

$259

All-over tartan pattern across a generous one-size-fits-most poncho. The traditional checks flow across the fabric with silk adding a subtle lustre that highlights each line — heritage pattern work reimagined in a luxurious fibre blend.

Made in New Zealand from 35% possum fur, 55% merino wool, and 10% mulberry silk. Warm, soft, and refined in its drape.

Throw it on over jeans and boots for a countryside pub lunch, or wear it over a simple black dress for an evening that calls for something with character. Complete your tartan ensemble with the matching scarf and gloves.

Kaitiakitanga: protecting native Aotearoa, one garment at a time. Our conservation impact → (opens in a new tab)

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Hand wash in cold water. Never rub, twist, or wring — gentle squeezing only. Lay flat to dry in shade, away from direct heat. Store folded in a cool, dry place.

New possum merino may shed lightly during the first few wears. This is completely normal and stops quickly. A gentle hand wash helps release any loose surface fibres.

Garment Care guide → (opens in a new tab)

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McDonald New Zealand

Tartan Possum Merino Poncho

$259

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Made in New Zealand from 35% possum fur, 55% merino wool, and 10% mulberry silk. Warm, soft, and refined in its drape.

Care: Hand wash in cold water. Never rub, twist, or wring. Lay flat to dry in shade and store folded. New possum merino may shed lightly at first — this is normal and stops after a few wears. A gentle wash helps release any loose fibres. Garment Care guide → (opens in a new tab)

Kaitiakitanga: protecting native Aotearoa, one garment at a time. Our conservation impact → (opens in a new tab)