Woolly,

You might want to have a chat with Meat NZ who promote the interests of the sheep processing industry - their site does have some info on pelt processing etc. I have been investigating the economics of investing in a farming business in NZ and found the site useful.

http://www.meatnz.co.nz/wdbctx/corporate/corporate.home

I would also recommend a visit to Meat & Wool Innovation who are promoting a wide range of opportunities:
http://www.woolpro.co.nz/

This site might also be useful and has some docs on wool/textile etc. industry in NZ: http://www.canesis.com/Canesis_Documents.shtm

On the subject of visas I would recommend you look carefully at the Business Investor visa which is idea if you have owned your own business (or have senior mgmt experience) and have some funds (e.g. from selling your existing business). We are taking this route as it gives ultimate flexibility and the freedom to pursue any direction.

Alan.