Our People

Graham Carr

Owner

Peel Forest Estate was purchased by Graham Carr in 1987. Since then the Estate has been transformed from a cattle and sheep farm to an internationally renowned red deer stud. Superior bloodlines imported from Croatia, Germany, Hungary and England has enable the Stud to breed a superior line of deer producing the finest quality Velvet.

“Farming in the South Island of New Zealand has enables us to create this wonderful safe and animal friendly environment to farm deer on a large scale. The result is an ability to create one of the world’s largest source of high quality Velvet produced to strict hygiene standards. It’s what we are passionate about.”

Mark Tapley

Product Development Manager

Mark joined the Peel Forest Estate team in 2013. As owner Graham Carr’s stepson, he grew up on the property from the age of five. Mark’s experiences across other industries has brought new innovations to Peel Forest and the farm now operates at the forefront of technology and analytical good practice. Mark has a Bachelor of Commerce from Otago University. 

“Peel Forest Estate would have to be one of the most beautiful locations on the planet. It's an absolute pleasure to work in such surroundings and with the highest caliber of deer, worldwide.”

Steve Blanchard

Stud Master

Steve has been stud manager at Peel Forest Estate since 2001. Before then he managed a large breeding herd on a different farm under the same company of Peel Forest Estate. Steve has an incredible passion for deer and takes huge pride in producing the highest quality velvet New Zealand has to offer. His wealth of knowledge on breeding and animal welfare are unrivalled and he is a pivotal staff member here at Peel Forest Estate.

“The quality of velvet being produced off the Estate is second to none. The animals producing this velvet are continually well fed, healthy stags. They thrive in this natural environment, making it a pleasure to farm them here at Peel Forest Estate.”