New Zealand’s nickname as Middle Earth, due to is appearance in the Lord of the Rings trilogy, isn’t too far off. In fact, much of its fertile farmlands—the Canterbury Plains in the South Island and a host of smaller fields in the North—were actually formed due to alluvial deposits eroded from the country’s many mountain ranges.

Such wide-open pastures and rolling hills aren’t necessarily home to hobbits, but rather a host to sheep, cows, and chickens that are raised cage-free. And since river-drained soils and a mild climate, paired with plenty of sunshine, help grass grow year-round, the flock can graze through winter, spring, summer and fall, helping to form a more tender, flavorful meat.

Plus, since much of New Zealand’s terrains are looked after by farmers who refrain from using pesticides and harmful hormones, the fields remain even greener—and the produce raised are especially strong and full of nutrients.