Rugby-playing pig travels by hog

Billy Black and his pig Jonah are used to attracting attention on the road. Photo / Otago Daily Times

Real pigs don't fly. They ride on Harley-Davidsons.

At least Billy Black's 6-month-old kunekune pig does.

Jonah, named after All Black rugby legend Jonah Lomu, sits on command, can nod to indicate "yes", shake his head for "no", and even wave goodbye.

But that is far from his only claim to fame.

Jonah is one of the stars of Mr Black's Kiwi Culture Show in Waitomo, which tells the story of New Zealand's pioneers.

And today he will be appearing with Mr Black at the Otago Taieri A and P Show in Mosgiel, where he will play a short game of rugby.

Mr Black has trained Jonah to knock over a series of dummies dressed as English players, and do a little sidestep before scoring a try.

The trick has earned Jonah many fans, and while he thinks he's a star, Mr Black said Jonah sleeps outside and gets fed scraps just like most other pigs.

"Occasionally he gets treats. My other pigs used to like a glass of beer, but Jonah is a bit more upmarket - he prefers a glass of wine."

- Otago Daily Times