The world’s oldest alpaca in captivity, Hawthornden Wainui, has revealed the secret to his long life, attributing it to a luxurious and comfortable lifestyle in New Zealand. Wainui, at 27 years old, has surpassed the typical lifespan of alpacas, which is usually between 15 to 20 years. His owners, Vicki and Alex Cordier, have pampered him with a routine that includes grazing, resting, and donning a cozy winter coat. The couple believes that Wainui’s serene existence is the key to his remarkable longevity.
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Guinness World Records recently recognised Wainui as the oldest living alpaca in captivity, conducting the assessment on July 6 when he reached 27 years and 185 days of age. Born on January 2, 1998, at the Hawthornden alpaca farm, Wainui arrived in New Zealand with his mother as a young alpaca and settled in Wainui Bay, hence his name. Vicki adopted him in 2002 after her sister introduced her to the world of alpacas at an auction, sparking her fascination with the gentle creatures.
Wainui’s daily routine revolves around comfort and simplicity. He starts the day with a hearty breakfast, leisurely roams the paddock, and eagerly awaits his subsequent meals. Despite his advancing age, Wainui was described by Vicki as a “grumpy old man” with a penchant for overseeing the herd and observing his surroundings from high vantage points. However, as his eyesight has weakened, his roaming area has been restricted to familiar paths in two small paddocks.
Having always been a placid and sociable alpaca, Wainui now spends his days in a dedicated paddock accompanied by Barney the goat and Squeak the sheep. Vicki noted that Wainui’s ability to maintain good relationships with other alpacas has contributed to his contented existence. Furthermore, Wainui’s affinity for his winter coat showcases his fashion sense while keeping him warm during the colder months.
Vicki shared her belief that the key to Wainui’s longevity lies in the comfort and security of his surroundings. With access to shelter throughout the day, Wainui can seek refuge from the elements, indicating his preference for a stress-free environment. Celebrating Wainui’s exceptional achievement as a Guinness World Records title-holder, Vicki expressed her admiration for the unique alpaca, emphasizing his significance and impact on their lives.
In a world where records are constantly broken and achievements celebrated, Wainui stands out as a testament to the benefits of a serene and well-cared-for lifestyle. As Wainui continues to embody resilience and grace in his twilight years, his story serves as an inspiration for animal lovers and caretakers worldwide. With his unwavering spirit and cherished presence, Wainui embodies the beauty of a life well-lived, surrounded by love and comfort in the serene landscapes of New Zealand.