Deer farming increasing in Waimarino

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 2, Issue 31, 22 January 1985, Page 4

Deer farming increasing in Waimarino

Deer farming in the Waimarino is on the up and up — in fact the number of farmers now breeding deer has doubled since 1980.

And according to Ohakune farmer Frank Taylor, it's no wonder as venison is the type of meat the world market is looking for. "Buyers want meat that is high in protein and lean." After four years deer farming Frank now has about three hundred animals on his sevcnty acres of wellfenced land. Using Wapiti (which originated from Canada) and Red deer (which originated from Europe) he produces hybrid fawns. His last fawn of the season was born several weeks ago and in mid-February he will begin weaning them. Soon after weaning is over, breeding begins. "It's quite hectic, but I really enjoy. farming them — they respond in a totally different way to cattle. As Frank breeds deer for meat he has mainly hinds,

having only a few stags for breeding. But there is a completely different type of deer farming, the purpose of which is to recover the 'velvet' from deer antlers. The velvet is processed and sold in Korea, Hong Kong and other Asian countries. Raetihi farmer Gavin Brown is a local man who now velvets deer, finding the $60 to $75 per kilo prices , being reached makes the business very worthwhile. Venison prices have been down this year. However, Frank Taylor still feels he is in the right business — "Prices should pick up again," he claims. Hinds are sold for between $2,000 and $2,500. Stags usually cost between $300 and $500. In-calf hinds reach up to $3,000. Although deer farming is profitable, the initial capital outlay is risky, according to Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries Officer, Will Wilson. "Deer are prone to disease and nutritional problems," he says. Deer are also more expensive to feed than cows as they need a high-quality diet. This usually consists of reject carrots, clover and many farmers are also starting to grow silage for them. Most Waimarino farmers who keep deer seem pleased they moved into the business, many of them stating they enjoy it because it is 'different'. "Their temperament is completely different to that of cows," claims Gavin Brown, "Even the dogs respond to . them in a completely different way."