Matt Lauer Accused of Animal Abuse at New Zealand Sheep Farm
Former “Today” show host Matt Lauer is facing allegations of animal abuse at a sheep farm on his 16,000-acre property in New Zealand. The farm, Hunter Valley Farming, has been accused of mistreating sheep by animal rights group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA).
According to an undercover investigation by PETA, sheep at the farm appeared to be struck and cut during the shearing process, with some needing stitches. The organization released a gruesome video showing the alleged abuse, which included sheep being dragged across the floor and lifted off the ground before being dropped onto a hard surface.
PETA claims that the abuse is typical across wool operations, and that the farm’s owner, Digby Cochrane, has ignored repeated warnings about the treatment of the animals. The organization has accused Lauer of being complicit in the abuse, given that he is a landlord of the farm and has failed to take action to stop the alleged mistreatment.
Lauer’s representatives have denied any knowledge of the alleged problems at the farm, but a spokesperson for the former TV host acknowledged that he had launched an investigation into the allegations. PETA has refused to contact Lauer about the alleged abuse, saying that he is responsible for the actions of his tenant and should take immediate action to stop the mistreatment.
The farm is a major player in the global wool trade, and several consumer brands, including Allbirds, Smartwood, and Loro Piana, use ZQ-certified merino wool, which is marketed as “the world’s leading ethical wool brand.” However, PETA claims that the certification is meaningless, given the alleged abuse that takes place at the farm.
Lauer purchased the property in 2017 for $9.2 million and has reportedly spent millions more on infrastructure and cattle farming. The property also features hiking trails, rustic rental lodges, and an angus cattle farm.
