Breeding excellence: The Tangihau Angus Story
Tangihau Station, a sprawling 6653-hectare operation located 45km west of Gisborne, is quietly building a reputation for producing remarkable Angus cattle. For over three decades, the station’s manager has meticulously focused on refining the breed, selecting for traits that deliver both performance and practicality. This dedication is now attracting significant attention from both stud and commercial breeders.
Selective breeding isn’t a speedy process. It requires patience and a long-term vision, often taking years to see tangible results in specific characteristics like coat color, muscling, or foot structure. The approach at Tangihau is strategic – focusing on improving one key area before moving onto the next.
Rather than chasing extreme Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs), the focus is on breeding “middle-of-the-road” cattle. This means prioritizing balanced traits that contribute to overall functionality and resilience. The goal isn’t to create outliers,but consistently good,reliable animals.
The station’s ideal is the “big-barreled” bull – cattle with significant frames and excellent structural soundness. These are animals built to thrive in real-world conditions, offering both productivity and longevity.
Key Qualities Driving Demand
The emphasis on structural integrity, depth of muscle, and a calm temperament are all contributing to the growing demand for Tangihau Angus genetics. These qualities translate directly into superior meat yield and quality, a benefit valued by producers and consumers alike.
* Structural Soundness: Ensures longevity and reduces the risk of injury.
* Muscle Depth: Contributes to higher-yielding carcasses.
* Docile Temperament: Improves handling and overall animal welfare.
* Meat Value: Ultimately delivers a premium product for the market.
Embracing Technology for Continued Improvement
Tangihau Station isn’t resting on its laurels. They’ve recently implemented wearable technology on a portion of their commercial herd. This allows for detailed data collection and analysis, further refining their breeding program and accelerating genetic progress.
This commitment to improvement is resonating with other breeders. They recognise the value of introducing these well-rounded genetics into their own herds. Demand is steadily increasing, with plans to offer up to 70 bulls for sale next year - a significant increase from the 48 sold this year.
Looking Ahead to a Promising Sale
Yearling bulls are currently weighing in around half a tonne, indicating a strong crop. The manager is optimistic about achieving another accomplished sale in june, potentially surpassing last year’s results. They are confident in the quality of their cattle and the value they bring to the industry.
You can discover more about Tangihau Angus and their breeding philosophy by visiting their website. https://tangihauangus.co.nz/
