Lamb crop update at New Zealand's South Island

Published 2024년 12월 21일

Tridge summary

The South Island of New Zealand has seen a significant decrease in lambs tailed by an estimated 645,000 head (6.4%), bringing the total to 9.7 million in 2024. This decline is primarily due to fewer breeding ewes and a lower ewe lambing percentage, attributed to adverse weather conditions including dry spells in Canterbury, cold snaps in high country areas, and persistent rain and cold in the Southern South Island. Despite these challenges, effective farm management has mitigated total losses. This reduction in lamb numbers is anticipated to impact finishing farms, potentially affecting their revenue. Consequently, the first quarter of South Island lamb processing is projected to be 25% lower than the previous year, although a tight global supply may balance this by increasing export prices.

Disclaimer:The above summary was generated by Tridge's proprietary AI model for informational purposes.

Original content

Lambs tailed in the South Island decreased by an estimated 645,000 head (-6.4%) compared to 2023, largely due to fewer breeding ewes and lower ewe lambing percentage. Dry conditions in Canterbury through summer and autumn affected ewe condition at mating, reducing reproductive performance. High country flocks in Canterbury faced cold snaps and snowstorms, while persistent rain and cold in the Southern South Island impacted lamb survival. Throughout the island, losses were mitigated by excellent farm management. Kate Acland, Chair of B+LNZ acknowledges “This year has tested the resolve of many South Island farmers. Despite the challenges, they worked tirelessly to save lambs, showing remarkable determination and resourcefulness.” The sheep and beef farming sector is highly integrated with breeding farms, many of which are in the high country, and finishing farms having strong relationships. Many lambs are sold to finishing farms further downland, creating a vital connection in the ...

Source: EuroMeat