Lanaco and Blueair Launch World-First NZ Wool Air Filter
New Zealand wool is reaching new heights as air filtration companies move away from synthetic products to biodegradable alternatives.
A slightly weaker NZ dollar, restricted wool supply and recent dearer wool markets in other countries aided the lift for most types at this weeks' South Island auction, says WSI's marketing executive, Paul Steel.
Of the 8,340 bales on offer, 83% sold. The weighted currency indicator was 0.46%t down on last sale of May 2 but started the day below this level, strengthening as the sale progressed.
Steel advises although Mid Micron Fleece was up to 4% dearer compared to a nominal offering at the last South Island sale the indicator is down significantly due to consistently weakening prices for these types in other markets over previous weeks.
Fine Crossbred Fleece and Shears 3 to 4 inches and longer were 3 to 5% dearer with shorter types making a significant recovery of 5 to 8% after last weeks' weakness in this area.
Coarse Crossbred Fleece and Shears were 2.5 to 5.5% stronger.
Finer First Lambs and longer Coarse Lambs Fleece were 2% dearer with Coarser Short Lambs 2 percent easier.
Long Oddments remained fully firm with Short Oddments 3 to 6% dearer.
Well spread competition with China, Western Europe and United Kingdom principals supported by India, Middle East and Australasia.
The rostered North Island sale on May 16 has been cancelled due to insufficient wool. The next sale is in the South Island on May 23 comprising about 7,300 bales.
Central Otago District Council (CODC) has voted against a plan to spread treated sewage sludge from Cromwell and Alexandra on farmland near Lauder, a decision Federated Farmers says reflects strong opposition from rural residents.
Pāmu has released its FY26 Integrated Annual Report, reporting a Net Operating Profit of $113 million, more than double the $49 million recorded in FY25.
Meat Industry Association data, released alongside the Red Meat Sector conference in Wellington, shows export value climbing across the US, China, UK and Canada.
Applications are set to open for the 2027 Zanda McDonald Award, a trans-Tasman award recognised for identifying and fast-tracking talented young leaders in agriculture and agribusiness.
The Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners (the College) and Hauora Taiwhenua Rural Health Network are calling for investment in a proposed new training pathway for rural GPs, warning that many rural practices are struggling to recruit while a large share of the existing workforce nears retirement.
Synlait has swung to second-half profit as operations stabilise, but the dairy processor still posted a $75.4m annual loss.

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