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.
![While meat prices are solid, David Cotton still finds something to grizzle about down on the farm.](https://www.nzherald.co.nz/resizer/v2/AKPNTFTOBHDVJRQNX34VQEZVK4.jpg?auth=5a3ff99799320d39fc7cc1fa68a01153dfaf73fa68873186e32ce105d4558331&width=16&height=24&quality=70&smart=true)
"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."