SCARCITY OF SHEEP

Hawke's Bay Tribune, Volume XXIII, Issue 260, 16 October 1933, Page 11

SCARCITY OF SHEEP

CONDITIONS IN WAIKATO BIG PURCHASES FROM POVERTY BAY . From 30,000 to 40,000 breeding ewes have been purchased by the Waikato from Poverty Bay, according to an estimate made last week. Little buying has taken place during the past week or so, but further business is expected, to develop before the close of the season. A northern correspondent commenting on tho position in the Waikato writes:— “The scarcity of sheep locally is very noticeable, and supports the belief that when supplies appear high values will rule. Certainly any lots that have come forward have been eagerly snapped up, and there seems a probability that the wants of many will for the next few months remain unsatisfied.

“No opportunity has been offered lately of gauging the feeling in regard to store cattle, but important sales are pending, and these it is expected will prove as attractive as in previous years. Good quality cattle, at any rate, are sure to be in demand, but pastures are not yet far enough advanced to justify an expectation of indiscriminate purchase. Inferior cattle may therefore require more accomplished salesmanship. Present values are:— Forward steers, £3 10s to £4 ss; three-yoar steers, £3 to £3 10s; two-year steers, £1 5s to £2 ss; fresh young cows, £2 to £2 15s; Jersey heifers, best, £3 to £3 10s (occasional choice lots higher); medium £2 5s to £2 15s; small, 30s to £2.