Conditions ripe for peak demand as bidr now available at all upcoming Waikato feeder calf sales.

Waikato feeder calf sales are set to start in mid-July and will progress through the rest of the country to reach Southland by mid-August, with the sale season continuing through to late September.

On the back of sustained ongoing buoyancy around beef, anyone planning to go to market can look forward to a good, positive season.

Based on sales of autumn calves, demand through the coming period should be strong, with prices expected to exceed last year’s levels.

After the successful trial of bidr at autumn calf sales at Frankton and Tuakau, New Zealand’s virtual saleyard will also roll out at the upcoming feeder calf sales at Paeroa, Tiroa and Te Awamutu, giving buyers the convenience of buying from home if they choose. Waikato sales will run five days per week through the season.

Early well-bred calves will be keenly sought after. Based on those initial sales and on the current strength of beef schedules, rearers taking these calves on and carrying them through to 100 kilograms will have a clear market. They may commit to forward contracts with weaner buyers willing to uplift them in the spring, subsequent to reaching that weight.

Supply of calves is set to be abundant, while the mild autumn has encouraged excellent condition among dairy cows, suggesting good size and health in the calves that are set to drop shortly.

While Hereford cross calves always prove popular, other beef breeds will also feature at the sales, with Charolais cross calves attracting particular attention for the past couple of years.

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