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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.
While wool returns continue in the doldrums, smart sheep farmers are looking for alternatives for a product that currently cost more to get off a sheep's back than it's worth. One such initiative is run by husband and wife team Hayden and Anastasia Tristram who farm at Wanstead in the Central Hawke's Bay. Mark Daniel reports.
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