The Rural Voice, 1987-09, Page 20• .. \ t � e � \\ ux�q��� � a r� Yam u�
At Siberia Deer Farm in New Zealand, stags pause to scrutinize their visitor. Thespring growth
of their "velvet" has started. Deer velvet is highly prized, and venison has found a ready market
around the world. In the following articles, writer and photographer Rhea Hamilton -Seeger
describes the New Zealand industry and assesses the possibilities of raising deer in Canada.
DEER FARMING IN N.Z.
D
eer in New Zealand have
been elevated from pest to
profitable venture.
The more adventuresome farmer
is looking at deer farming as an alter-
native to raising sheep and cattle.
Compared to the sheep business,
which is suffering a slump in both the
wool and meat sectors, and the cattle
market, which fluctuates as much as
Canada's, deer farming is profitable
— provided you get into it now.
Tom Kebbell of the Siberia Deer
Farm located north of Palmerston
North started buying deer stock in
1978 when prices averaged $300 a
by Rhea Hamilton -Seeger
head. In 1981 he decided to convert
his sheep operation to a deer farm. He
had selling venison in mind, but has
Peter, the photographer's
son, and a red deer.
since discovered a good market in
breeding stock. Lately, deer have
been selling for $2,500 to $3,500 an
animal (New Zealand dollars). In
some cases, buyers are impatient and
will buy foals for $3,200, paying 10
per cent down and the rest after birth.
A hind (female) calf will sell for two-
thirds of the adult price.
Kebbell prefers to sell his stock
from the farm, though there are
stockyards equipped to handle deer
sales. He points out that farmers who
take stock to sales hate to take unsold
animals home and tend to sell them for
less than the best price.
18 THE RURAL VOICE