North Island store cattle market quiet

The hot topic last week was the increased throughput as farmers avoid tagging cattle for NAIT, and an increased interest in R2yr heifers. In regions where farmers fatten local trade cattle, demand had escalated as there is speculation of a strong market come spring when local trade cattle supplies are traditionally short. Some farmers are hoping for $5.00/kg, but the closest local trade has come to that in over 10 years is October 2008 when it peaked at $4.90/kg.

Last week, R2yr heifers firmed 5-10c/kg with 380kg types $2.10-2.15/kg. R2yr bulls are hard to find and prices remain firm. Farmers continue to shy away from the heavier cattle as winter closes in. Autumn born calves continue to be quoted mainly at $450-470/hd although up to $500/hd is out there.

Stortford Lodge had one of the larger yardings so far this week across the country since NAIT started. Local buyers were very strong throughout the sale and with demand outstripping supply, prices were up on last week. 2 lines of straight Angus R2yr heifers sold for $875 – 954/hd or $2.15/kg with all other lines well over $2/kg.