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Waikato Times, Volume XXXI, Issue 2518, 30 August 1888, Page 2

The difference in the prices ruling in Australian markets for wheat and flour and those in the markets of this colony is most striking. In Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide, the average prices for wheat is 3s 4d to 3s od per bushel, and roller flour is sold at £7 10s, But in New Zealand, particularly in this part of it, the millers pay a much lower price; 2s 9d to 2s 10d per bushel for wheat, yet they demand a far higher price for their flour than the Australian millers do with dearer wheat; that is to say, the wholesale market rates for roller flour in Auckland are £10 10s and £11 ss. We particularise Auckland, because a reference to our commercial columns will show that in Canter bury flour is fully £3 less,_ or nearer to the Australian prices. The difference between these prices is remarkable, and needs explanation. It is clear that someone is reaping a rich harvest, though not the farmers. When the subject was being discussed some little time back, we suggested a combination amongst the growers to store their grain and ship it direct either to Australia or England. This course was not adopted though generally appreved of; it was probably found impracticable for the reason "that needs must when the devil drives." It will, however, have been observed from the latest telegraphic quotations that prices in the Home wheat markets have gone upwards, Australian wheat realising just now more than forty shillings, or an average of thirty-nine shillings petquarter, a rise since the harvest of about seven shillings. New Zealand wheat has been quoted at a somewhat lower figure, generally about thirty-five shillings per quarters though our telegrams today show a rise to thirty-seven shillings and ninp.pence. There is no doubt that had the fanners availed themselves of the opportunities that presented themselves at the time for combined action in their own interests, they would have been the gainers now.