Fertility and feed efficiency drive profitability
With their inherent fertility, feed efficiency, longevity and excellent temperament, combined with ongoing genetic progress, Herefords are the breed of choice for purebred programmes and a vital component of any crossbreeding system. Words Robert Peacock.
The last 12 months have been exceptionally positive for farming, marked by strong prices for sheep and beef, and even an uptick in the wool market. For beef farmers, this robust environment provides a prime opportunity to invest and fully capitalise on quality Hereford genetics.
Last June saw very strong sales for two-year-old Hereford bulls, with increases in both numbers and average price. This uplift wasn’t solely due to current beef prices; many farmers with Angus cows purchased Hereford bulls to benefit from hybrid vigour, a message our marketing team is pleased to see gaining traction. Stud breeders also invested heavily in 2025, with a record auction price of $80,000 paid for Lot 45 at Matariki Herefords’ sale.
The 2025 spring yearling sales were also successful, achieving excellent clearances and strong averages. Beyond traditional beef use, farmers are increasingly trusting Herefords for beef heifer mating and in dairy herds, valued because of their proven calving ease genetics. Rearers and finishers also benefit from the breed’s growth and carcase quality.
Our youth programme remains outstanding, and it was fantastic to see a strong NZ Youth Team represent the breed at the 2025 World Hereford Conference in Kansas City, USA. At the conference, we were presented with compelling scientific evidence from independent research centres, demonstrating the genetic superiority of Hereford cattle for traits such as fertility and feed efficiency, and the increased profitability they can deliver compared with other breeds.
