Livestock Report: Challenging climates and valuable venison

Photo / File

Content brought to you by PGG Wrightson.

The Country's Jamie Mackay is joined by PGG Wrightson's GM for Livestock, Peter Moore, to look at the state of the nation in terms of New Zealand's livestock market.

Moore talked about the various climate conditions across the country, with dry spells on the east coast of the North Island and in northern Otago, and wet patches throughout the bottom of the South Island.

Mackay asked if store stock was being brought forward, as farmers on the east coasts had been told to expect a dry summer.

Moore confirmed this, and added that there was a larger than usual yarding at Stortford Lodge yesterday, as farmers were being cautious and not wanting to be caught out.

Mackay asked Moore about the new season lambing schedules, and where they would be placed during the peak of the season.

Moore anticipated that there would be a dip in prices, but only time would tell, as the market was much softer compared to 12 months ago.

Listen below:

The beef market continued to be strong, Moore said, and he pointed out that ground beef was doing well as a commodity, and noted that fast food providers were doing also well.

Mackay wrapped up the interview by asking about the venison market, as it usually was a high end export product and it has been impacted by Covid-19.

Moore noted that prices were better than anticipated and that over time the venison market would recover.

Mackay also noted that it would be a great time to promote venison in the domestic market, as it might fall into a better price range.