Matt Lauer, the former anchor of the Today show, finds himself embroiled in fresh controversy after animal rights group PETA accused him of turning a blind eye to animal abuse on his New Zealand farm.
Matt Lauer Investigated, Facing Animal Abuse Allegations On His New Zealand Farm
The accusations stem from a recent undercover investigation conducted by PETA at Lauer’s 16,000-acre estate, Hunter Valley Farming, located on New Zealand’s South Island. Lauer acquired the property in 2017, shortly before his dismissal from NBC due to sexual misconduct allegations.
While Lauer reportedly leases a portion of the land to sheep farmers, he maintains a distance from the farm’s daily operations. However, PETA’s investigation allegedly captured disturbing footage of sheep being mishandled and injured during shearing. The graphic video reportedly shows sheep being struck by shearers, resulting in wounds requiring stitches.
Ingrid Newkirk, president of PETA, condemned Lauer’s inaction, stating that his “New Zealand getaway is hell for scared sheep.” PETA maintains that Lauer, as the landowner, holds responsibility for ensuring the ethical treatment of animals on his property.
Lauer, through a spokesperson, vehemently denied any knowledge of the alleged abuse. He claims to be “deeply disturbed” by the accusations and has launched his own investigation into his tenant’s operations.
The Responsibility of Landowners
The case raises questions about the responsibility of landowners in ensuring ethical practices on their leased properties. While Lauer claims he is not directly involved in the farm’s operations, PETA argues that he cannot absolve himself of all responsibility.
The incident also casts a shadow on the ethics of ZQ-certified merino wool, a brand marketed as “the world’s leading ethical wool brand” sourced from New Zealand. Major clothing brands like Allbirds and Loro Piana utilize this wool, relying on its reputation for ethical production.
However, PETA’s investigation suggests a different reality. The group claims their findings at Hunter Valley Farming are representative of a wider pattern of animal abuse within the wool industry. Shocking footage allegedly reveals instances of sheep being struck, roughly handled, and even beaten.
Lauer’s representatives have reportedly promised to take “immediate and appropriate actions” once all the facts are established. Whether this translates to stricter oversight of his tenants’ practices or divestiture of the property altogether remains to be seen.
PETA’s decision not to notify Lauer before releasing the video highlights their strategy of holding powerful figures accountable by bringing public pressure to bear.
