As bull sales draw to a close across the country we take a look back at some of the sales over the month as well as South Island markets and the effect of mycoplasma bovis around the country.

South Island

The end of June saw last of the South Island bulls sales. Overall Bull sales were well supported and vendors very happy with their prices.

South Island is very much in the winter mode as minimum livestock numbers are coming forward for sale. What is being sold, especially in the sheep sales is seeing very strong pricing, evident on both good lamb and mutton schedules.

The cattle market is starting to rise again due to shortage of prime animals which is normal for this time of the year. 

Dairy

As farmers react to the mycoplasma bovis infection, livestock markets are feeling the impact and the outbreak is affecting farmers in several different ways.

From grazing decisions, to feeder calf sales, all aspects of pastoral farming are coming under the microscope. Farmers are asking more questions around any business decision, particularly ‘Where have animals come from?’ Traceability is the key issue.

In the wake of the outbreak, demand for all classes of dairy stock is steady.

Plenty of winter grazing is available throughout the country, and the start of the North Island calving season is going well.

One sad side effect of the outbreak is the decision of the IHC to suspend its calf sale fund-raiser this year.

Genetics

Favourable growing conditions over autumn saw the east coast bulls put up for sale presented in their best condition. Demand for robust, sound hill country cattle was reflected in the strong prices seen across all bull sales here in the last month. 

Kerrah Simmentals in Wairoa kicked off a successful spree, gaining an average of $7910 for 79 bulls sold demonstrating the confidence in terminal breed’s worth in the region. The three Hereford studs in the region put forward docile, growthy sires to reach a combined average of $7849, all going to commercial operations. 

The three days of Angus sales came thick and fast, with Mel Story’s Ratanui Stud setting the tone at the Matawhero sale complex, with full clearance and an average of $9515 for 35 bulls, with two going to stud. Blustery conditions at Penny Hoogerbrug’s Kaharau Angus sale did nothing to deter buyers, with the record sale average of $14970 speaking for the cattle put forward; the quality and substance of all 51 bulls was something the late stud master, Collin Williams would have indeed been proud of. Lot 2, a Braveheart of Stern son, was purchased for the national season top price of $95,000 to Rangatira Angus (Gisborne) and Turiroa Angus (Wairoa). The Angus sales continued, with both local national buyers in attendance, creating a bidding frenzy, which ultimately saw all studs reach near or total clearance, and continue to beat previous averages, some by over $2000. 

A heartening month for the NZ beef industry, particularly here on the east coast, with the value of beef cows fully realised in the demand for good bulls. With the grass slowed here now as the frosts cool the soil, both winter lamb trade and store cattle prices have softened, but prices still firm on SIL ewes. With the shortest day now behind us, we wait now in anticipation for the new season to rear its head, and for some, see the results of new genetics used last mating season. 

And for those that missed out on bulls suitable to put over their heifers this spring, the PGG Wrightson Genetics team can help you find the ideal fit for your operation, Cape Regina to Bluff.