The number of lambs tailed in the spring of 2009 was up 6.2% on the previous spring to 28.95million head reports M&WNZ. This is from less ewes, down 3.6% to 22.65million, which is at its lowest level for 50 years. Lower stocking rates and good pasture cover resulted in good ewe condition at tupping. This resulted in a lambing percentage of 123.6% nationally. Lambs from hogget lambing increased dramatically by 41.4% to 970000 lambs but bad lambing weather did hinder hogget lamb totals. Based on this increased forecast, it is estimated that export lamb slaughter is estimated to be 23.5 million head. This extra million lambs at current estimates should inject about $70 million into the rural economy but will not make up for lower per head return expected from the currency induced price drop.
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