Covid-19 is now spreading rapidly through New Zealand and there’s no doubt it will bring disruption to many industries, including our own. Silver Fern Farms is doing everything we can to help mitigate the challenges ahead, but equally we want to be transparent about any impacts we see potentially materialising.

In this week’s report we’ve shared some of our modelling around the likely worst-case scenario we could face and the effect on processing timelines. While this is just modelling rather than a definitive prediction, we do feel it’s important to be upfront with this information to enable you to plan accordingly on farm.

As you are all aware, we have been challenged with labour shortages for some time now due to the low unemployment level and restrictive immigration settings. While there is work to be done with the Government on getting our immigration settings right for the medium-to-long term, we’ve also been working hard through Government channels over the last while to see if there are any short-term solutions to the challenges we are facing into with Omicron. Pleasingly, we are hearing some positive messaging out of Government on this, and we are hopeful to be able to confirm some details in this space in the near future.

I want to reassure you that while the next period could be difficult, we are still seeing good demand across most products which will likely keep farmgate pricing elevated. We are in a good position to work through whatever challenges arise.

We note that the last 10 days has seen some wild weather around the country. Our thoughts go out to all those affected by the extreme rain and wind, and in particular the arable and horticultural sectors who have suffered recent crop damage.

This week’s report covers projected impacts on processing delays, close contact exemptions on farm, further information around the He Waka Eke Noa pricing options and continued positivity from global markets. 

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE MARKET REPORT

Wishing you an enjoyable Waitangi weekend.

Ngā mihi,

Simon Limmer

CHIEF EXECUTIVE