Mel Croad
63 posts
Armed with an analytical brain, it's second nature for Mel Croad as an AgriHQ analyst to investigate, learn and understand what makes our sheep and beef markets tick. Having done that for more than 10-plus years, it brings her a lot of joy to then break down that information in a way that relates to farming decisions. I love bringing a sense of clarity to farmers, especially the busy, savvy ones who hunger for honest, independent market information, but are often too busy to wade through all that data themselves. Another highlight is being surrounded by a team of analysts who also all get how important our role is to the wider industry. Outside of the office, she can usually be found with her sleeves rolled up, working on/within our farming operation, putting all that market knowledge to good use. May 15, 2023
A closer look at US beef-market burger
The United States is New Zealand’s go-to market for manufacturing beef, but to what extent have high hopes for the season been realised?
May 2, 2023
Be realistic with lamb price expectations
Prices will pick up through the early part of the season, as they usually do, but producers would be wise not to let this go to their heads as they look deeper into the year.
January 17, 2023
All the fun of the fair until markets settle
The pastures are flush and it’s just as well – slaughter prices for both lamb and beef still have some pain to endure in the weeks ahead.
November 22, 2022
Lamb prices react to global pullback
Slaughter prices for lamb are tumbling at a rate not seen before at this time of year and exporters are facing a very challenging period.
October 25, 2022
Softening prices require a budget rethink
There’s no denying that the market for lamb will be trending on the soft side in the months ahead – albeit off a high base – and that will have to factor into planting prospects for feed crops.
September 27, 2022
How big a player are we on world stage?
New Zealand may be sixth on the world beef export table, but it is far outstripped by the top players.
September 13, 2022
Hot livestock prices thaw winter chills
Many in the winter trade game are anticipating prices to follow last year’s trends – but there are some dynamics to be aware of.
August 30, 2022
Export scorecard highlights changes to China market
Sales into key lamb destination haven’t been plain sailing.
August 23, 2022
Beef markets are looking solid
The strength of demand for beef globally is being reflected in a jump in values.
August 8, 2022
Nearing the pointy end of the lamb season
As we enter the pointy end of the processing season, it’s worth coming up for air and taking a look at how far the lamb kill has come.