North Island wool value has come into line with South Island level with 12,500 bales on offer this week. There was a 93 percent clearance rate compared to the last sale on 19th December the currency indicator firmed by 0.45 percent having minimal impact on the market.

New Zealand Wool Services International Limited’s General Manager, Mr John Dawson advises that the first sale after the Christmas break was well supported assisted by the cancellation of the rostered South Island sale and limited anticipated volumes available next week.

Fine Crossbred Fleece and Shears of good and poor colour were firm to 1 percent dearer with average styles lifting 5 percent.

Coarse Crossbred Fleece of good and poor colour were up 2 to 3 percent with average styles 5 percent stronger.

Coarse Shears were generally 1 to 2 percent firmer except average style 3 to 5 inches and better style 3 to 4 inches 5 to 7 percent dearer.

Short First Lambs Fleece remained firm. Long Oddments were 1 percent firmer with Short Oddments firm to 4 percent easier.

Next sale on 16th January comprises approximately 10,300 bales from the North Island and 7,600 bales from the South Island.

Limited competition with China and Australasia dominating, supported by Western Europe, Middle East and India.