Sheep & Beef

Most of the South Island has plenty of feed, which has helped drive store stock pricing, especially lamb sales.

Store lamb prices have been at a historic high as buyers compete for lambs.

Red and Wapiti stags  have been keenly sort after at  recent sales which has resulted in record prices. This due to high venison and velvet prices over the last couple of years.

All classes of cattle have been selling well both on farm and through auction. Lifts in the bull schedule over the last two weeks has seen a renewed interest in manufacturing beef.

Dairy

Since Christmas we are finally seeing increased enquiry and sales in the dairy market. Confidence is building with positive increases in the GDT and in some regions limited real estate activity.

In general herds are ranging in price from $1500 to $1900 with a handful of exceptional herds realising in excess of $2000. As normal there is a disconnect between listing price and sale price – this is expected to correct itself as the season progresses. Remember that traditionally the better herds sell first, so if you are in the market to purchase – act now.

Northern areas have commenced pregnancy testing with early results similar to previous seasons. It will be interesting to see what effect the decision by some farmers to use less or in some cases no tail up bulls has on empty rates.

Most areas are reporting better than average feed conditions, but the recent and forecast increase in temperatures may negatively impact this.

Genetics

The end of 2018 saw the North Island team in the depths of ram selling season. The favourable season and a strong early lamb and mutton schedule reflected in confidence of ram buyers reinvesting in premium genetics for this year’s lamb drop and going forward. Maternal rams with a genetic tolerance to facial eczema demanded a premium in areas where commercial farmers are on board with recognising these sires as a tool to future proofing their breeding flocks. Further south the season continues, with record prices spread evenly throughout the breeds. With national ewe numbers down 12.45% since 2012, the positive ram sales demonstrate that our commercial farmers are now demanding more performance and production from their selections to make every mating count. Those stud breeders optimising their systems with the use of technology and tools previously unavailable, are being rewarded for their extra vigilance and long may this continue.

Before long we will be back to bull buying and all it entails, but until then, if you require any advice or assistance with your breeding operation, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with your local PGG Wrightson Genetics Specialist.

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