The new meat season's opening schedule has pleasantly surprised even the hardened old stock agents.
Independent Whanganui livestock commentator, farmer and stock agent David Cotton said the $8.50 new season lamb opening schedule was better than he had anticipated.
"Yes, this is better than I expected," Cotton said.
"Old season lambs are $7.30, mutton $5 with contracts available over this level. Prime beef is holding its own at around $5. Both sheep and cattle store markets are holding firm."