Values for steers and heifers holding steady at 2019 levels, while weights for traditional lines are up

After COVID affected some of the earlier scheduled weaner sales, the lift in restrictions saw them back in full swing across the North Island.

Due to Auckland border restrictions the team in South Auckland relocated their sale from Tuakau to Frankton and with the assistance of bidr®, they live streamed the sale resulting in a total of 969 bids being taken across 85 lots. A solid sale and a great effort to achieve this at short notice.

While an element of caution prevailed over the earlier fairs, largely due to climate and outlook, the market settled well, with solid buying support throughout the North Island. Due to the COVID lockdown 12 months ago, no comparisons can be made to 2020, though referenced back to schedule, the steer market has found a level corresponding to 2019. Recent rain across some regions built confidence. As expected, in most areas the average weights on traditional lines are up by an average of 20 kilograms.

Earlier fairs saw weaner heifer values vary across regions, largely dependent on type, quality and buyer motivation. The heifers have now found a level to satisfy both vendor and purchaser and still represent some good shopping with the view of some purchasers having more than one option at the other end.

Sale entries have been solid across the North Island, in some instances exceeding 2018/19 tallies.

Click here to view the Weaner Calf 2021 Sales calendar.

Matt Langtry, PGG Wrightson North Island Livestock Manager