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24 November 2021
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Market Commentary
Farmers Voice

North Island rebounding from slow, chilly start to spring

Cattle, yearlings, weaners and lambs all selling well 

By early November, the North Island's slow, chilly start to spring had ended, temperatures were rising, and the grass was growing fast. Particularly gratifying: Hawke's Bay, in drought for the past three years, received plenty of rain at an ideal time, with the moisture appearing to have soaked in, setting up perfect ideal conditions. 

 

North Island cattle and yearling markets have responded well. Although a few sales have dropped slightly on comparative needs, in most instances, we are close to record prices through the saleyards, statistics that optimistic red meat schedules fully justify.

 

Demand for dairy beef weaners is solid, particularly for beef cross heifers and steers. At the same time, results for Friesian bulls have initially been mixed across most regions, though they should rise as spring grass growth accelerates. 

 

New-season lambs are starting to come to the market. Given the circa $9.50 per kilogram schedule, prices align with expectations, noting that many lambs around most regions are looking for a good dose of sun to bring on the bloom they would typically display at this point of the season.

 

Some covid frustration is creeping in, with those operating in lockdown level three suffering most. These conditions pose challenges for agents, saleyard staff and especially for purchasers, with some obstacles in travel to locations. Where at all possible, in those locked down areas, we are attempting to live-stream significant sales, with the uptake and results through bidr® playing a substantial part. 

 

Matt Langtry, PGG Wrightson North Island Livestock Manager

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