Back in 1994, four Marlborough recreational hunters contemplated why the people of NZ couldn’t enjoy the many benefits and unique flavours of naturally wild game meats as they and their families could. With plenty of discussion they decided; if it could be done, why not them?
The four hunters worked from the ground up on the purpose built factory, meeting every one of the stringent regulations and guidelines from NZFA, MAF and the Marlborough District Council. In 1996 their hard work came to fruition when Premium Game became a licensed supplier of processed wild game including venison, goat, pork, rabbit, fallow, hare, tahr and arapawa sheep.
Premium Game's main priorities have always been producing outstanding quality products, selling and promoting a unique New Zealand product and maximising the potential of this fast growing niche market. These animals have only ever known the freedom of roaming and grazing in the high country. Therefore their diets consist of the best (and most natural) essential nutrients, resulting in unique gamey flavours. The game is in top physical condition, keeping lean by consistent exercise as they roam the hills. Premium Game also has access to a wide variety of exotic meats which are available upon request, such as kangaroo, ostrich and eel.
Premium Game prides itself on the personal, down to earth yet highly professional manner in which the company operates and works hard to maintain this, despite the massive growth the business has encountered. Most times when you contact the factory, you will be greeted by one of the directors themselves.
These factors have not gone unnoticed and some of the strings to Premium Game bow include numerous awards ranging from ‘innovation and excellence’ to ‘best food presentation’ and ‘best stall’ at festivals and events of all kinds, starring roles alongside the likes of Peta Mathias on Taste New Zealand, Logan and Brown in the latest series of Hunger For The Wild, and features on Rural Delivery and National Radio’s Country Life and being featured on Country Calendar and Hunting Aotearoa. Premium Game has come a long way since the ‘Old Boys’ first chin-wag way back then – and the story continues to grow!
