How it started
On April 4th, 2021, I (Lisa) sent an inquiry email to Heidi and Deane Holland of Boromir Bull Terriers, after following their kennel for 20+ years. Heidi replied with a wealth of information and arranged to meet while she was delivering raw pet food in Taranaki. I was fortunate to be introduced to her Miniature Bull Terrier, Ninja, and the love affair with minibulls began!
I had expected to wait years for a puppy, but in June that same year, I was offered a little white female from their litter — and from the moment I brought her home, life was never quite the same.
That puppy, Vinca (Boromir Luminary Wytch from Vortex), became the foundation of ItiBull. She was purchased under a co-ownership agreement, which allowed me to contribute to the ongoing development and preservation of Miniature Bull Terriers in New Zealand and internationally, supported by the expertise of breeders Heidi (Boromir) and Linda (Vortex).
At the time, I had never been to a dog show, let alone considered showing a dog. Our first experience in the ring came in March 2022 at the North Island Bull Terrier Club (NIBTC) speciality show, where Vinca proved to be a lively handful at the end of the lead – but we loved every moment and the friendships that followed.
We later ventured into All Breeds shows, and what began as a small goal to earn Vinca’s Championship title soon became a passion. Eventually, she became the first Miniature Bull Terrier in New Zealand to receive a Gold Merit Certificate (awarded for 50 Challenge Certificates).
After achieving her title, I decided to shift our focus to preparing Vinca (and I!) for her first litter. As part of this next step, I applied for kennel registration through DogsNZ. In June 2024, ItiBull was officially accepted and registered.
Meaning Behind ItiBull
The name and logo hold special significance — each element reflects the story and spirit behind ItiBull.
The word “Iti” means small, tiny, minute, or miniature in Te Reo Māori. The first New Zealand kennel to breed Miniature Bull Terriers – Lester Kennel, often included “Iti” in their dogs’ registered names. Choosing ItiBull felt like a meaningful way to honour the origins of the breed here in Aotearoa New Zealand.
The logo design carries that same sense of heritage and personality. The iconic bull terrier side-profile — the unmistakable “egg head” — is subtly integrated into the letter B, making the logo instantly recognisable even when used on its own.
The image represents our foundation bitch, CH Boromir Luminary Wytch from Vortex (Vinca). Her name, Vinca, comes from the botanical name for the Periwinkle plant, so it was only natural to include periwinkle flowers in the design. And, of course, we couldn’t leave out her distinctive brindle patch over one eye — her signature marking and the inspiration for her first nickname, Covergirl, from when she was just a baby puppy.
Together, these details create a logo that celebrates our beginnings, our foundation dog, and the proud heritage of Miniature Bull Terriers in New Zealand.
Ethics with a Touch of Magic.
At ItiBull, we’re all about doing right by the Miniature Bull Terrier. This breed has our whole heart, and everything we do is focused on raising happy, healthy dogs who truly represent what a Mini Bull should be.
Good Temperament
We want our puppies to grow up confident, kind, and full of that cheeky Mini Bull personality everyone falls in love with. We carefully choose pairings with steady, well-rounded temperaments, and we put a lot of time into early socialisation so each pup gets the best possible start.
Health as a Non-Negotiable
Strong health is non-negotiable for us. Our dogs are fully health tested, and we work closely with vets and breed experts to make sure we’re making smart, responsible decisions for the long-term wellbeing of our lines. Our program focuses on minimising inherited issues and promoting lifelong wellbeing. Our goal is simple: healthier Minis, generation after generation.
Staying True to the Breed
Preserving correct structure is essential to protecting the future of this unique breed. We breed to the standard set by recognised kennel clubs, ensuring each litter contributes positively to the Miniature Bull Terrier’s iconic look, movement, and athleticism. Sound conformation is key to both quality of life and the longevity of the breed.
Protecting the Future of the Breed
Mini Bulls are a rare and special breed, and we take that responsibility seriously. Whether it’s planning thoughtful litters or selecting the right homes, everything we do is about helping preserve and strengthen the breed we love so much.