Mostly store ewes on sale

These 10 two-tooth Wiltshire ewes from Willows Agriculture Ltd sold for $151 at the Matawhero saleyards yesterday. They showed strong shedding characteristics and had reared lambs as hoggets. They should be ideally suited for early mating. A second cut of 16, carrying more wool, made $111. Picture by Trevor Brown

Just 399 sheep were sold yesterday at the Matawhero Saleyards, comprising mostly of store ewes suitable for mating.

Store lambs are mostly being kept away from auction, due to low prices and good pasture being plentiful.

Willows Agriculture Ltd, at Waipaoa, offered four pens of two-tooth ewes, all of which had reared lambs as hoggets.

Their pen of 24 Coopworth ewes sold for $136, and a second cut made $100.

IF & JA Storey, at Motu, offered two pens of capital stock, mixed-age ewes.

They were in good condition, with at least two-year mouths.

The top pick of 98 sold for $123, with a second cut of 38 making $71.

A heavy prime lamb sold for $120; the best price of $84 was paid for two prime mixed-age ewes.

Best prices: Two-tooth ewes: Willows Agriculture Ltd, 10 Wiltshire, $151, 24 Coopworth, $136, 16 Wiltshire, $111, 34 Coopworth, $100; IF & JA Storey, Capital MA, 98, $123, 38, $71, 3, $65; Treble B Trust, 5 year ewes, 37, $70, 75, $57.

Store lambs: Grants Panel Shop, 14, $63; K Briant, 5, $61; Rotorua Sports Horses, 4, $58.