The New Zealand Rabbit New Zealand rabbits were developed in American in the early 1900's either from wild rabbits brought to the US from New Zealand or from crossing other rabbit breeds, like the Flemish Giant and Belgian hare. Although they are best known as the big white meat rabbits, the red New Zealand was the first variety developed and now there are four recognized colors: black, broken, red, white, and blue (accepted into ARBA standard of perfection in 2016). On average, New Zealand rabbits weigh about 9-12lbs, the body should be about medium length, with equal depth and length, and overall should appear to be well balanced. We raise red, white, blue, black, and broken New Zealand.