The New Zealand wool market declined for the first time in six weeks and was affected by a stronger local currency.
At the North Island sale held on 20 September, the Coarse Crossbred Indicator fell by 5 cents (1.5%) to close on 337 cents, and in US dollar terms lost 2 cents (0.9%) to finish on 223 US cents.
The New Zealand dollar strengthened by 0.66% against the US dollar compared with the previous week, finishing at 66.03 US cents.
The total offering was 7,115 bales, with a clearance rate of 88%.
Compared with the South Island sale on 13 September, prices moved as follows: Fine crossbred fleece of 35 microns and finer 2% cheaper. Fine crossbred early shorn of 35 microns and finer 2-4% cheaper. Coarse crossbred fleece of 36-39 microns – good styles 2-3% cheaper, average styles firm, poorer styles 2-3% cheaper. Among the coarse crossbred early shorn and second shear types of 36-39 microns, 3/5 inch were 2% cheaper, 3/4 inch 1-2% cheaper, 2/4 inch 1% cheaper, 2/3 inch firm. Crossbred oddments – good style firm, poor style 1-2% dearer.
Source: Wool Services International