But things look to be turning around, with dairy farm sales leading the way.
Sellers appear ready to meet the market and that boosted sales in the second half of last year.
The high dairy prices will have helped, but some owners may also be eyeing impending regulations and deciding to call time.
Whatever the reason, it’s good to see some buoyancy back in the market.
It’s also good to know there are new farm owners who’ve surveyed the scene and decided it’s an environment they want to be a part of.
Bryan Gibson
Dairy sector leads rural property turnaround
The number and value of dairy farms sold on the open market increased dramatically during the second half of last year.
Genetic gain facilitates lower cow numbers
The national dairy herd already contains the calibre of cows that will be required in the future to allow farmers to reduce cow numbers without losing total farm productivity or profitability.
Experienced operators scarce as maize harvest cranks up
Agricultural contractors remain short of experienced operators as a bumper maize harvest gets underway across the North Island.
Golden Shears cancellation disappoints
The cancellation of iconic events like Golden Shears and the Southland A&P Show due to covid alert level changes highlights the need for rural communities to stick together and have a plan B.
Ongoing disruptions hit processors
Disrupted shipping schedules, labour shortages and dry conditions in parts of the country are starting to hamper meat processing capacity as the season reaches its peak.
