Editorial: Making wool great again
OPINION: Otago farmer and NZ First MP Mark Patterson is humble about the role that he’s played in mandating government agencies to use wool wherever possible in new and refurbished buildings.
NZ Wool Services International Limited's CEO John Dawson says the strengthening dollar and low overseas interest saw most types ease for the 5,100 bales of North Island wool on offer this week.
The weighted currency indicator compared to the last sale on the 8th of October firmed 2.27%, having an easing effect on local wool prices with 82% selling.
Very limited activity from the usually dominant Chinese market saw their usual types incur significant reductions, however continued covering from past sales for the Australasian carpet market resulted in steadier prices for this sector on limited supply.
Dawson advises, Finer Crossbred full fleece were 13% to 17% cheaper with the coarser end 3% easier.
Fine Crossbred shears ranged from 1% to 3% cheaper in local terms with the very short types fairing the best.
Full length Coarse Crossbred wools were 2% to 3% cheaper with shears firm to 1% easier.
Short Oddments received limited attention, reducing up to 10%.
Limited competition with most activity covering old sales to China and Australasia with limited interest from Western Europe, Middle East, United Kingdom and India.
Next sale on 22nd October comprises approximately 7,950 bales from the South island.
New Zealand’s top cheeses for 2025 have been announced and family-owned, Oamaru-based Whitestone Cheese is the big winner.
Waikato farmer, and Owl Farm demonstration manager, Jo Sheridan is the 2025 Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year.
New Zealand’s special agricultural trade envoy Hamish Marr believes the outlook for the dairy sector remains strong.
Everyone from experienced veterinarians and young professionals to the Wormwise programme and outstanding clinics have been recognised in this year’s New Zealand Veterinary Association Te Pae Kīrehe (NZVA) awards.
OPINION: The Government's latest move to make freshwater farm plans more practical and affordable is welcome, and long overdue.
Global Dairy Trade (GDT) and Arla Foods have announced that Arla will begin offering European-sourced skim milk powder (SMP) on GDT Pulse from May 2025 as part of an extension to the GDT Pulse pilot.