Shrek was a Merino wether belonging to Bendigo Station, a sheep station near Tarras, New Zealand, who gained international fame in 2004, after he avoided being caught and shorn for six years. Merinos are normally shorn annually, but Shrek apparently hid in caves, avoiding muster. He was named after the fictional character in books and films of the same name.

After being caught on 15 April 2004, the wether was shorn by a professional in 20 minutes on 28 April. The shearing was broadcast on national television in New Zealand. His fleece contained enough wool to make 20 large men's suits, weighing 27 kg. Shrek became a national icon. He was taken to parliament to meet the then–New Zealand Prime Minister, Helen Clark, in May 2004. Shrek was euthanised on 6 June 2011 on the advice of a veterinary surgeon.

The image shown here is of sheep mustering on Bendigo Station. The image was taken by Mr Anderson of the National Publicity Studios in September 1965.

The purpose of the National Publicity Studios was to provide advice to government departments and state agencies on the provision of photographic, art, and display services and in particular to assist in the production of publicity material aimed at conveying a favourable image of New Zealand.

The National Publicity Studios was divided into two main sections: Photographic - comprising photographers, a laboratory, a photo library and facilities for audio-visual productions & Art - comprising graphic art, display art, display workshops and silkscreen.

Archives Reference: AAQT 6539 Box 61 A78066 archway.archives.govt.nz/ViewFullItem.do?code=24460376

For further enquiries please email Research.Archives@dia.govt.nz

For updates on our On This Day series and news from Archives New Zealand, follow us on Twitter www.twitter.com/ArchivesNZ