In this episode, Jo Scott speaks with Will Wilding of Te Mania Angus. Will shares how their herd structure balances maternal strength with innovation in terminal and dairy-focused genetics. He explains a new AI tender system replacing stud transfers, designed to prioritise commercial buyers and share value.
Will also discusses finishing their own calves to validate genetics, the importance of weighing for growth, and growing demand for performance-proven cattle.
Guest:
- Will Wilding, Managing Director, Te Mania Angus
Host:
- Jo Scott, Genetic Specialist, Targeted Breeding
Te Mania Angus is focused on delivering balanced, commercially relevant genetics, with Will Wilding highlighting the stud’s emphasis on maternal strength, structural soundness and performance. The herd is run under commercial pressures, with selection ensuring only functional, fertile females remain. US performance sires are used strategically, bringing traits like calving ease, IMF and growth without compromising replacement quality.
The breeding programme is split between properties, allowing the main herd to focus on maternal traits while another unit explores terminal, dairy and efficiency-focused lines. Will says that this structure supports innovation while maintaining a strong maternal base.
In a significant shift, Te Mania has removed stud transfers from its sale to prioritise commercial clients. Instead, AI access is offered via tender, with proceeds shared between the stud and the bull’s new commercial owner. This change enhances data linkage and ensures wider access to elite genetics.
Te Mania also finishes its own progeny, validating breeding decisions and identifying top-performing lines. Will sees growing value in genetics-led store stock selection and hopes industry tools like Steer Select will help drive greater transparency.
With 130 bulls catalogued for the 18 June sale, Te Mania offers a structurally sound, even team backed by practical breeding and a strong commercial focus.
Te Mania Angus bull sale:
Wednesday June 18th 2025 1:00pm
Te Mania Saloon Bar
Find the catalogue and more information through their website here: https://www.temania.co.nz/sales-events
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