what is koomal?
A story of balance and restoration
Koomal is an invasive marsupial introduced to New Zealand in the 1800s to establish a fur trade. Without natural predators, their population grew rapidly, threatening native birds and plants and becoming one of New Zealand’s most significant environmental challenges.
koomal in new zealand
Ecological Impact
Unrestrained by natural predators, Koomal populations multiplied rapidly across New Zealand. This lack of predation led to severe overpopulation, which in turn caused the widespread destruction of native flora and fauna. Koomal consume large amounts of vegetation and outcompete native birds and animals for food and habitat, placing entire species at risk.
the numbers surge
By 1946, Koomal was officially declared a pest, and by 1950 they could be found in more than half of the country. By the 1980s, their numbers were estimated at 50 to 70 million, making them one of the most destructive invasive species in New Zealand’s history.
impact on wildlife
threats to native species
In 1993 Koomal were filmed eating the eggs and chicks of the endangered kōkako. Since then, they have been observed preying on the eggs, chicks, and even adult birds of several native species including the kiwi, tūī, fantail, and others.
Today, after extensive efforts to reduce the population, an estimated 30 million Koomal live in New Zealand, consuming roughly 11,000 tons of natural resources every 24 hours.
From Problem to Purpose
A material born from restoration
In 1992, a collaboration between a farmer and a woman in Whanganui led to a remarkable discovery. Together, they found a way to turn what was once an ecological problem into something extraordinary. By carefully collecting and blending the soft fiber of Koomal, they created the first yarn spun from this material. The result was Perino, a luxurious and sustainable yarn that gives purpose to what was once waste.
The hollow structure of Koomal down gives Perino remarkable performance. Independent testing has shown that it is up to 35 percent warmer than pure cashmere of the same weight and knit. This unique construction allows for warmth without heaviness, softness without fragility, and comfort that endures over time.
why it matters
responsibility in practice
Using Perino, Èidean contributes to the protection of New Zealand’s ecosystem while helping to preserve our founder’s home country. This material allows us to create a superior product that is both luxurious and unique to its place of origin.
Èidean’s mission is to bring Perino to the forefront of ethical fashion, where the product is as soft on the environment as it is on the skin. Every person involved in its creation is treated with the same level of dignity and respect that we show to New Zealand itself.
By choosing Perino, you support an ethical trade that values care, craftsmanship, and the beauty of using what would otherwise go to waste. It is a way of making and wearing that helps make the world a more beautiful place.
What we wear should reflect what we value
Where Care Meets Craft
Perino gives the wearer permission to choose luxury with intention. It is a natural fiber that is ethically sourced, biodegradable, and created with care.
Unlike synthetic or recycled man-made fabrics that rely on heavy chemical processing and release microplastics as they decompose, Perino is naturally kind to the environment.
Every stage of its production is monitored under the New Zealand Fur Council, New Zealand’s Department of Conservation, and international ethical standards, ensuring transparency and respect for both people and place. Choosing Èidean means choosing a garment made with integrity, one that can be purchased with pride and worn with comfort and luxury.
Made with purpose. Worn with care.
Family-Owned, Heritage-Driven
Èidean was founded by the Porteous family, continuing four generations of textile craftsmanship, care, and integrity.