Wool market variable

Of the 13,230 bales eventually offered as growers continue to resist selling at these lower levels, 67% sold, which is a better result than the past two auctions.

The weighted indicator for the main trading currencies was down 0.6% compared to the last sale on April 19 having minimal impact on prices.

Dawson advises that fine crossbred wools eased up to 3%.

Good colour coarse fleece was 1% softer with poorer styles 2 to 3.5% cheaper. Long coarse shears were 1 to 2% easier with the shorter types 2 to 3.5% down.

First lambs were firm to 2% weaker. Second lambs and long oddments, which are generally better processing wools than comparative North Island types were 8 to 12% stronger.

Good style short oddments were firm with the poorer styles 7 to 12% dearer.

Limited competition with China and Western Europe continuing to dominate, supported by India, Middle East and Australasia.

Next sale on May 3 comprises approximately 7500 bales of North Island wools.