The body behind a move to unite the shearing industry and improve the quality of New Zealand's export wool will launch its ShearNZ programme in Christchurch on Tuesday.
The Shearing Contractors Association has developed a quality assurance programme to which shearing operators can be accredited.
Beef and Lamb New Zealand has funded the project, which sets industry standards covering employment contracts, wool shed safety, training and clip preparation.
Shearing Contractors Association president Barry Pullin says about 40% of the country's operators have signed up to the scheme so far.
He says the programme will benefit the whole industry, from farmer to exporter.
Mr Pullin hopes to have 80% of the country's shearing operators signed up to the programme in next few years.
