The highlights for Bull Week in 2025 were the $156,000 New Zealand all-breed, record price paid at the Cricklewood Angus at Nūhaka, beaten 24 hours later by a $161,000 record-breaking purchase at Tangihau Angus.
The Tangihau average price of $24,880 for 48 bulls sold was the highest on-farm average in New Zealand last season.
This season, the Simmentals kick sales off with Gold Creek at Otoko on May 18 at 2pm.
The next day, Kerrah Simmentals at Nūhaka take their turn.
Traditional Angus ‘Bull Walk’ activities are now on May 25-26.
Hereford sales are on June 3, with Mokairau stud to sell its line from 10.30am and Wilencote from 2.30pm the same day.
Angus sales start with Turiroa near Wairoa, Ratanui and Cricklewood, all on June 21.
Tangihau and Kaharau sales take place on June 22.
Whangara, Tawa Hills and Turihaua sales are on June 23.
Orere and Kenhardt finish East Coast Angus Bull Week on June 24.
PGG Wrightson genetics representative Emma Pollitt said R2 bulls around the district look on form for the upcoming sales season.
“While late spring got a little dry in some places, romping good autumn growth has negated any feed limitations, and all the bulls are looking to peak at the right time,” Pollitt said.
“Some studs are presenting new bloodlines for them this year, which has elevated the offering to a diverse mix of modern and tried and true genetics.
“With the New Zealand beef economy the strongest for the longest [time] it has been for a generation or two, we are going into this season encouraged that the industry is in an exciting place.
“Every part of the supply chain has welcomed greater demand, and with bulls in the pole position to add value at the very beginning, there is no time like now to invest in your cow herd.
“Several breeders have increased sale bull numbers this year, off the back of a boomer run in 2025.
“The intention is to keep East Coast genetics accessible to all, to look after those that look after us.”
