Top wool advocate bales out
The conversion of productive farmland into trees has pretty much annihilated the wool industry.
There is still steady demand and a general underlying strength to the wool market, says John Dawson, general manager, New Zealand Wool Services International Ltd.
Although the South Island sale saw several categories at slightly lower price levels than last week's North Island sale, of the 10,362 bales offered this week, which was considerably more than anticipated, 75% sold. The passed-in wools were predominantly lots with inflated grower reserves.
The weighted indicator for the main trading currencies was unchanged compared to the last sale on November 1.
Dawson says merino fleece were firm to 4% cheaper. Mid micron fleece finer than 26 micron were firm to 3.5% dearer, 26.5 to 30 micron were up to 4% cheaper with 30.5 to 31.5 microns up to 6% dearer. Fine crossbred fleece generally remained firm. Longer fine crossbred shears were 1.5 to 4.5% dearer with shorter types firm. Coarse crossbred fleece were generally buyers favour. Longer coarse shears were up to 1.5% easier with shorter types 1 to 3% cheaper. Oddments were 7% stronger.
Good competition with China, India and Western Europe principals was supported by Middle East and the United Kingdom.
The next sale on November 15 comprises about 9125 bales from the North Island.
Changed logos on shirts otherwise it will be business as usual when Fonterra’s consumer and related businesses are expected to change hands next month.
Reflecting on the past year, Horticulture New Zealand chief executive Kate Scott says there has been a lot to celebrate.
Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) Director General Ray Smith is giving a big shout-out to the horticulture sector, especially kiwifruit.
Early forecasts for New Zealand's apples and pears point to a standout season marked by exceptional fruit quality and high pack-out rates.
Tickets are now available for Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s (B+LNZ) Out the Gate, returning from 19-21 May 2026 at Te Pae, Christchurch.
Dairy Women's Network (DWN) is welcoming AgriHealth as a new partner.

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