Feb 13, 2025
What's been unfolding across the nation?
Last year, by all accounts finished off on a good note for most farmers with all the areas that were facing a dry summer receiving good rainfall leading up to Christmas. NIWA forecasts that the east coast of both islands should be experiencing good grass growth, while the upper and central western part of the North Island starts to dry out. It does seem however that even these areas have received good rain recently, reversing that trend for now. Central Otago however remains hot and dry (not unusual for this time of year).
2025 also seems to have got off to a good start with mostly healthy stag sales in January – with strong demand particularly for venison animals. Velvet and trophy were more variable but some sales went well with most or all animals being sold. Prices were however back from previous years which is understandable as there isn’t as much cash around while velvet prices remain subdued. I’m sure this will be a topic for discussion leading up to the industry conference in Queenstown on 14 May.
Farmers learn from farmers
There were two deer farming field days at the end of January that show-cased the industry. Pāmu opened up three farms in the Te Anau basin to perhaps 130+ people: Haycocks (red breeding unit), Mararoa (red and wapiti breeding and finishing) and Lynmore (red finishing). These farms were great examples of matching the stock class to the land class and running multi species to maximise the feed curve. This reflects the focus in Pāmu on “production and productivity” in contrast to earlier emphasis on managing environmental impacts. Thanks to Grant McNaughton, Paul Ewing, Matt Canton and Wayne Webb for a stimulating and enjoyable day out in a very pleasant Southland summer’s day!
The following day it was Canterbury/West Coast branch’s turn to host 82 people at Stu Stokes’ farm in Sheffield to find out a thing or two about weaning and drought management. The day ran smoothly and covered all the bases to make the day an enjoyable, educational and entertaining break from the farm. The branch also made a lifetime membership presentation to Malcolm Gilbert which was well received by the audience. The noticeable number of younger people is very encouraging as it shows that the next generation of deer farmers is eager to learn more about the farming from the more established. Thanks go to Danette McKeown (facilitator) and the Canterbury/West Coast DFA branch committee.
Summer dry? Yeah, right.
From left to right: John Tacon, Grant Hasse, Malcolm Gilbert
And just over a week later the Elk & Wapiti Society of NZ held its AGM and Velvet and Hard Antler competition in Cromwell. This is the only active breed society, but it certainly is active. Entries were down on last year – a pattern seen in all velvet competitions this season, but quality remains as good as ever. With good velvet and venison prices there was a buoyant mood and as the last competition for Grant Hasse as president of society it was a nice ending for him and a smooth transition for Glen Whyte stepping in as the new president. The awards dinner also featured a special presentation to Jamie Ward from the breeders in appreciation for his research over many years at AgResearch.
Outgoing president Hasse, incoming president Whyte
Jamie Ward’s service to the Elk and Wapiti society was greatly appreciated
The year ahead.
2025 looks to be a busy year for deer farmers and the industry as a whole. We are looking forward to a more profitable velvet season as velvet markets develop (e.g. Korean Healthy Functional Food) and similarly for venison, although just what impact a tariff-happy USA will have on NZ venison remains to be seen. So far the growing season looks to be very favourable across the country.
NZDFA branch activity is picking up with initiatives such as Deer 2 $ucceed, Young Farmers competition, school visits and the recent CWC field day all being very well attended and with a noticeable presence of younger farmers – highly encouraging signs for our industry and one we can hopefully build on in 2025 with more branches.
On the subject of young farmers, Farmers Weekly is now running a regular monthly section on deer farming. The first issue featured some young farmers who have attended the NZDFA Next Generation programme (https://www.farmersweekly.co.nz/farm-management/farmers-showing-renewed-faith-in-deer/). Held in August each year, it is a popular drawcard for young people starting out in the industry. This year it will be held in Marlborough, so keep an eye out later in the year for registrations as it is always oversubscribed.
And of course in May we mark 50 years of the NZ Deer Farmers Association at the industry conference in Queenstown. Planning is well underway with special events, speakers and presentations lined up. Registrations and accommodation bookings are open: https://deernz.org/home/events/deer-industry-conference-2025/
Your Industry, Your Voice – get involved (please)
Now more than ever your voices are important to ensure farmer interests are properly represented at the industry level as well as with government and other primary industry organisations. With this in mind please consider the following industry leadership positions that will be available in 2025:
- Two positions on the NZDFA Executive Committee
- Two positions on the NZDFA Selection and Appointment Panel
- Two positions on the DINZ Board (to be appointed by the NZDFA Selection and Appointment Panel)
More information is provided here: NZDFA nomination forms & constitutional information
