DEER
More steady venison schedule movements as the spring harvest commences but although levels are still well behind last year the peak is predicted to finish ahead.
For farmers that are commited by contract, pricing levels are reported well ahead of the spot market and earn a premium for their loyalty and planning.
Velvet prices are expected to firm on last years average of $104/kg to $110/kg and maintain stability on the back of increasing Chinese demand.
The latest drench research reveals farmers should be using a triple combination programme to prevent resistance to intestinal worms and improve growth rates of young growing deer.
LAMB
Amid renewed optimism for the sheep sector, lamb schedules have remained flat as the main export markets are quiet during the hot summer months.
Exporters are reluctant to push prices too high based on previous year’s experiences, but are still optimistic new seasons lambs will attract good pricing especially in the middle period.
Some of this upside is based on a softening in the NZD which although it has dropped with the recent lower dairy prices many economists were predicting it to fall further.
Bank analysts are suggesting a 17.5 kg carcase should return about a $100 per head this year which is a 5% lift on last season’s returns.
The Beef and Lamb NZ sheep industry awards showcased the best in the sector as industry leaders look to highlight top performance as a way to combat the exodus to dairy.
Two good financial results from Ravensdown and PGGWrightson have illustrated how the agricultural upturn is filtering through the economy and allowing NZ to maintain its economic well being in the global market.
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WOOL
Strong auction prices are continuing to be maintained as supply shortages and low stocks underpin the market.
Primary Wools and Elders have bought the Christchurch yarn business from the receivers so NZ carpet makers have access to our product and farmers invest further down the value chain to ensure a future for the fibre.
BEEF
Export schedules remain steady at these high levels as a moderation of supply out of Australia and the US should increase demand and improve price prospects for the new season.
Price lifts of between 5-10% are being suggested dependant on the currency and this will be a welcome boost for breeders on sheep and beef hill country.
Strong prices are being recieved at saleyards for the small offerings of store stock for sale as the mild winter in some areas has given farmers opportunities for earlier purchases.
The Finance Minister has tried to take the heat out of the overseas farm ownership debate by citing the poor historical success of corporate farming in NZ, but the Labour party, if elected, promises to block the sale of Lochinver Station to the Chinese.
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