Is deer farming profitable NZ?
Is deer farming profitable NZ?
While deer farming has been pushed off most of Canterbury Plain and into the hills by dairy farming, it is now the most profitable form of dry stock farming, says Deer Industry New Zealand chairman Andy Macfarlane.
How profitable is a deer farm?
The best profits come from raising deer for hunting. Preserves pay from $800 to $40,000 for bucks 2 1/2 years and older. “About 90 percent that are sold, score 190 or less.
Can venison be farmed?
Because wild venison cannot always provide the consistency demanded by modern retailers, and as there are limited prospects for increasing the supply of wild deer meat, farmed venison provides the only opportunity to increase supply.
What deer is farmed in New Zealand?
With the introduction of professional farming systems and the first deer licenced issued in the 1970s, New Zealand farmers recognised a further business opportunity for velvet.
Where are deer farmed in NZ?
Industry New Zealand. Deer farming is generally located on the Southland Plains or the high country areas in northern and western Southland, as shown in Figure B17. There is a concentration of large farms in the Te Anau Basin and a large number of specialist deer properties occur in and around the Invercargill area.
Who are the main consumers of NZ venison?
The United States (671 tonnes) and Germany (559 tonnes) remain the largest chilled markets, but if Belgium and the Netherlands were treated as a single market, it would be the biggest (853 tonnes).” Dusseldorf-based chef Volker Drkosch​ said more affluent consumers generally bought venison.
How much land do you need for deer farming?
On average each adult animal needs 1000 square feet of space. So, an acre of land with good grazing accommodates 2-3 adult whitetail deer, 7-10 adult fallow deer, 4-7 adult red deer, 7-8 axis deer, and 1-2 elk. In addition, you need to plan for protection from the elements, and methods to feed and water your animals.
Is farmed venison healthy?
Regardless of whether you eat wild or farm raised, venison is healthier than any other red meat. Venison has higher iron levels and contains omega 3 fats and has less fat than skinned breast of chicken.
How many deer farmers are there in NZ?
There are about 1400 deer farms in Aotearoa New Zealand, running a total of 833,000 deer (2020), of which 582,000 are in the South Island.
How do I start a deer farm?
Some steps to building a sound operation follow:
- Know the Regulations. Find out what local and regional agencies regulate ownership, transportation, propagation and sales of the deer species you’re interested in and their products.
- Startup Capital.
- Plan.
- Farm Layout.
- Fencing.
- Building Pens.
- Nutrition.
- Feeding Program.
