Farm Productivity in Hawke’s Bay
On farm productivity improvements have resulted not only from the introduction of new sheep and cattle breeds but also by the continuing improvement of existing traditional breeds, in particular, a move away from show bred stud herds and flocks into production recorded and selected breeding systems. Internal farm sub division and pasture improvement using new improved, high production and drought resistant pasture species and the appropriate use of fertilizers continues to benefit the productivity of most properties in the District.
The following livestock statistics demonstrate a substantial drop of stock in all categories, reflecting extended un-seasonal drought conditions between summer and early winter 2007 rather than any long term trend in Hawke’s Bay.
The following livestock statistics demonstrate a substantial drop of stock in all categories, reflecting extended un-seasonal drought conditions between summer and early winter 2007 rather than any long term trend in Hawke’s Bay.
Sheep Numbers
Sheep numbers in Hawke’s Bay at 30th June, 2007 were reported (2007 Agricultural production Census) at a little over 3.6 million which is about 10% of the national flock numbered approximately 40 million. Hawke’s Bay has the second largest sheep numbers (behind the combined Manawatu – Wanganui Regions) but 5th largest behind the South Island Regions; Canturbury, Otago and Southland.
Beef Cattle Numbers
Hawke’s Bay cattle numbers were reported as 438,000, lower than both the Waikato and combined Manawatu – Wanganui Regions. In the South Island, Canturbury had a similar total but other Regions significantly smaller numbers.
Deer Farming
Deer farming for both venison and velvet (soft, undeveloped deer antler) has been an important diversification in Hawke’s Bay where in 2007 total numbers were reported to be 88,000. Most deer farming is carried out in areas having an above average summer rainfall. About 85% of the herd is based on Red Deer breeding. The balance is largely comprised of Wapiti or Wapiti – Red Deer crosses, especially for commercial venison production. Venison farming follows a similar pattern to other forms of livestock breeding and finishing. Most properties have breeding herds but a proportion specialise in finishing weaner stags to about 18 months of age, purchased from breeding properties.
Western Europe; principally Germany, is the principal export market, taking approximately 85% of exports. The future for deer farming looks bright with long anticipated price increases for export venison realised in 2008. Average prices in July 2008 are $7.98 per kg, compared with $4.96 the previous year and a 10 year average of $5.36 per kg. (source Deer Industry New Zealand). Over 2002/03 prices were even lower at around $2.54 kg, believed to be a flow on from the very high prices – around $10.00 per kilogram which were paid to growers in 1999. As a result our principal overseas markets sourced alternative and lower quality supply from Eastern Europe. The long-term future for venison given sensible marketing and stable price structure is likely to be significantly better.
Filed under: Hawkes Bay, Moving to New Zealand, Pastoral
