The New Zealand fine wool market fell this week in comparison to the last sale held in Christchurch, in what can only be described as a very limited offering. Fine wools fell between 3-8% while halfbreds were cheaper by a similar proportion. Selection was once again extremely limited, but bidding was competitive even at a lower level.
This week saw 5,864 bales on offer in South Island, of which, 4,539 bales were sold posting a clearance rate of 77%. This week, selection consisted of 40% ewe hogget fleece, 31-35 micron, 25% ewe fleece, 36-40 micron, 13% early shorn/hogget second shear 31-38 micron and 7% associated oddments. Also on offer was 5% merino and halfbred fleece and 10% miscellaneous types.
Widespread competition was with China main and support from Australasian carpet mills and Indian Sub-Continent.
Major buyers were Furhman (1,300), NZWSI/JSB (1,265) and Masurel (1,100) among others this week.
Prices movements in South Island compare North Island sale of 21 November were as follows: Fine crossbred fleece good style 1-2% cheaper and fine crossbred second shear in buyers favour and early shorn 1-3% cheaper. Coarse crossbred fleece of super style were 2-3% cheaper, good style were in buyers favour, average 1-2% dearer and poor style firm. Coarse crossbred early shorn and second shear good types 3/5 & 3/4 inch in firm to 2% dearer, and 2/3 were 1-2% cheaper and 2/4 firm. Crossbred oddments clothing good colour was firm and poor colour in buyers favour and combing also in buyers favour.
Next sale will be held on 5 December with South Island offering about 5,000 bales and North Island offering 8,500 bales.
