But even before it is made public the Government could lend support to an ailing industry by demanding that all new or renovated public buildings and state houses should use wool – be it as insulation or carpets.
Two and a half years ago, as the Coalition Government took office, Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters was asked whether he would act on his party’s promise to stop allowing synthetic carpets to be installed in government-funded buildings in favour of wool.
At the time his response was that it was early days. Let us hope by the time some action takes place it is not too late in the day.
Crossbred wool prices plummet
Prices for crossbred wool are at their lowest since the late 1980s following the first auction since the lockdown. Many of the uses for the fibre are in industries hit hardest by covid-19, such as hotels, airlines and cruise ships.
Warm fuzzies for farmers
New Zealanders’ estimation of the primary sector has risen compared to eight months ago. Horticulture leads the way but sheep and beef and dairy farming are not far behind while fisheries have just ticked over into positive territory.
M bovis eradication in sight
After almost two years the campaign to eradicate Mycoplasma bovis is on track to succeed, according to industry leaders. So far 154,788 animals have been culled and $149.3m compensation paid.
Venison prices slump
Deer farmers are facing challenging times as farmgate venison prices have fallen from $9.60/kg last year to $5.50/kg. Just how long the overseas restaurant trade – a chief customer for NZ’s product – will take to recover is anybody’s guess.
Dairy levy vote deadline nears
Farmers have until this Saturday to vote on the dairy levy. Already about 47% have taken part in the poll, the results of which will be known on June 2.
Tonight, a Sarah's Country Special Edition Comedy Drought Shout with special guests brought to you by Ballance Agri-Nutrients.
7.15 – 7.30pm – Sarah will be joined by members of the Rural Support Trust and Hawke’s Bay Rural Advisory Group to discuss the situation on the ground, how the drought funding is being distributed and how farmers are faring.
7.30pm – 8.15pm – The Drought Shout will be hosted by comedian Te Radar who will be joined by comedians Paul Ego, Justine Smith and Gary McCormick.
8.15pm – The resilient farmer Doug Avery will join the special edition to bring his wisdom and leadership.
