SIMMENTAL: THE ‘MONEY MAKER’ BREED IN NEW ZEALAND Report on the growing popularity of Simmental cattle in New Zealand from the Simmental NZ President, Colleen Knauf
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immental would be the third most popular beef breed in New Zealand behind Angus and Hereford and the number one European breed.
The number and make up of Simmental breeders have changed dramatically over the years that Simmental has been in New Zealand. From many small/hobby breeders there are now fewer breeders but with larger herds and on a more commercial basis. Growth would be the prime reason for producers looking to Simmental. Cattle reach target weights more quickly than traditional breeds. “Gone before the second winter” is an advertising slogan that Simmental NZ has coined. Hybrid vigour is also a factor in attaining the extra growth and weights. Simmental is mainly crossed over Angus and Hereford cattle to get extra growth from the Simmental and hybrid vigour. Docility is becoming a factor as Simmental NZ now have a docility EBV and have worked very hard in the last 10 years to improve a negative image of the temperament of Simmental. The strength of the breed in the past has been its terminal traits but it is becoming increasingly recognised as a maternal breed as well. Better constitution of the breed in New Zealand conditions has been a factor in this. There is even some use now of Simmental as a terminal sire for Dairy herds as they look to Dairy beef for profit and to find a better use for “bobby calves”. Bulls are specifically bred for
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easy calving and lower gestation to suit the dairy industry. The variety of colour has sometimes been a problem even though it is only ‘skin deep’! Traditional red and white dominate in popularity followed by a plainer red with a little white, blonde and a few black Simmentals. Simmental do well anywhere in New Zealand. They are found in the tropical north and right down to the chilly bottom of the South Island. Ultra sound scanning technology has found cattle to have thicker hides in colder climates and of course they develop thicker coats. Most sales are still for R2 bulls but there is a growing trend to sell yearling bulls as well. Average Prices for 2year old bulls would be approx. $5,000 $10,000. Top money about $20,000. Pedigree Female stock $1,200 as R1 to $3,500 for older females. Chinese buying has buoyed the female market in recent years. Commercial values are related to the meat schedules which have hovered around $5 kg for the last five years. Beef prices have been very good by New Zealand standards over the last few years. Like everything else, the outlook is somewhat uncertain with the effects of Coronavirus on markets. Simmental in New Zealand are enjoying a positive come back to cross breeding after a successful marketing effort by Angus in recent years.
