NEW GENETICS. SAME STANDARD.

Gold Creek Simmentals enters 2026 with purpose, progress and proven performance.

2026 marks a significant step forward for Gold Creek Simmentals, with two major developments set to strengthen the stud’s position as one of the country’s most trusted suppliers of performance-driven Simmental genetics.

The first is the acquisition of the entire Rissington Simmental herd – the oldest Simmental prefix in New Zealand – a move that adds valuable depth, consistency and long-term genetic security to the Gold Creek breeding programme.

The second is a carefully considered evolution that reflects changing commercial beef demands: for the first time, Black Simmental bulls will enter the Gold Creek sale ring. Stud Manager Tom Sanson says both developments are part of a clear long-term direction, not a sudden shift.

“Progress at Gold Creek is deliberate, not rushed,” Sanson says. “We’re not chasing trends – we’re building a stud herd that delivers measured performance, structural integrity and long-term profitability for our clients.”

While Black Simmentals are a new offering for the sale, Gold Creek is clear that the foundation of the programme remains unchanged.

“This isn’t a move away from traditional Simmental,” Sanson says. “Our core focus remains the same. The black line is simply an extension of the same philosophy that built Gold Creek – functionality first, performance proven, no shortcuts.”

Sanson explains the black programme developed naturally through the same selection pressure that has always defined Gold Creek’s breeding decisions.

“This bull wasn’t kept to make a statement – he was kept because he was good enough to keep,” he says. “Phenotype, structure, data and real-world performance all aligned, and when that happens, colour becomes secondary.”

Gold Creek’s introduction of black genetics is designed to meet the realities of modern commercial beef systems, while still delivering the fertility, high growth and pay weight Simmental cattle are known for.

“Some of our very best young bulls today happen to be black,” Sanson says. “That’s not a strategy shift – it’s simply the outcome of applying the same standards we always have.”

Importantly, Sanson acknowledges that black Simmentals won’t be for everyone, and that’s okay.

“They’re an exciting addition, but not a replacement. Our traditional Simmental bulls remain the focus, and the Rissington purchase reinforces that commitment.”

Gold Creek’s 2026 on-farm bull sale will be held Monday 18 May at 2pm, with viewing available from 12pm. A total of 45 bulls will be offered, including a select group of Black Simmentals that meet the Gold Creek benchmark.

It’s the new black, with the same Gold Creek standards.