Strong Wool Prices Return NZ Growers to Profitability
Rising strong wool prices are finally returning the sector to profitability.
A weaker New Zealand dollar, limited wool volumes and renewed client interest, combined to lift local prices across the board says NZWSI general manager, John Dawson.
Of the 6,350 bales on offer, 99% sold.
The weighted indicator for the main trading currencies was down 1.79% compared to the last sale on April 30.
Fine crossbred full fleece and longer shears were 7 to 10% dearer, stimulated by resurgent Chinese interest with shorter types 3 to 6% firmer.
Coarse crossbred full fleece and longer shears were 5 to 11% dearer with shorter types 4 to 8% stronger.
Lambs fleece lifted 4 to 6%. Good colour short oddments were 8% dearer with poorer styles up 8 to 12%.
The sale saw limited competition with China dominating supported by Australasia, Middle East, India and Western Europe.
The next sale is on May 14 and comprises about 4,600 bales from the North Island, down 32% on anticipated rostered volumes.
A leading British farming politician says he's impressed with the positive attitude of New Zealand farmers that he met during his recent trip here.
OPINION: With 10,500 dairy farms, New Zealand continues to punch above its weight around the world.
The Southern Dairy Hub (SDH), which runs a demonstration farm for South Island farmers, has a new general manager.
Esther Guy-Meakin has been announced as the new chief executive of the New Zealand Meat Board (NZMB).
According to a progress report on the Aotearoa Horticulture Action Plan (AHAP), New Zealand's horticulture sector is making real progress on the big issues facing growers.
A team effort that is paying dividends for the wider New Zealand economy.

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