M E D I A R E L E A S E | 7 October 2026
Abbey acquires a 50% stake in AHD, partnering with Richard Kettle to bring New Zealand farmers a wider range of quality, cost-effective animal health products
NEW ZEALAND, 7 October 2026 – Abbey Animal Health NZ Limited, part of the 100% Australian owned Abbey Group of Companies, today announced it has agreed to acquire a 50% shareholding in Animal Health Direct Limited (AHD), the New Zealand-based animal health company. Abbey will become an equal partner in AHD alongside Richard Kettle, who holds the remaining 50%. Completion is expected in November 2026.
As part of the transaction, Abbey will also acquire product assets from AgVet NZ Limited, including six ACVM-registered products such as Unlock Pour On, Saturate Gold and Fleeceguard, adding well-known brands to the AHD offering from day one.
The partnership opens an exciting new chapter for AHD. Abbey has a large range of animal health products in Australia and plans to register those products in New Zealand and distribute them through AHD in the future, giving Kiwi farmers and distributors more choice of quality, cost-effective options.
Abbey Group Founder and Managing Director, Mr Mick Findlay, said the deal was a natural fit for both businesses.
“This is a great opportunity for Abbey and AHD to join forces in New Zealand and provide a wide range of quality products at a cost-effective price.”
“Richard Kettle is a great partner for us in New Zealand, and we will do everything in our power to support him in his endeavours with AHD.”
Mr Findlay said the immediate focus would be on bringing more of Abbey’s portfolio to New Zealand.
“It will be great to see Abbey’s distinctive green drums on farms right across New Zealand.”
“As a sheep producer myself, I understand that farmers two levers to increase profits, are to increase production and or reduce costs. We believe Abbey and AHD can help in this regard.”
Mr Findlay thanked Craig Elstob, the previous owner of the shareholding, for the business he helped build, and Richard Kettle for his support throughout the process.