The economic turmoil in Europe has been blamed for a drop in wool prices and demand at this week's sale.
Wool exporter Wool Services International says the uncertainty facing eurozone economies is keeping many buyers out of the market.
Prices fell by 4% overall at Thursday's auction of North Island wool and fewer than 70% of the 12,500 bales were sold.
WSI says the fact that more than 30% of the offering was passed in without reaching farmers' reserve prices also reflects many wool growers' resistance to accepting lower prices.
About 13,500 bales of North and South Island wool are up for auction next week - 9000 fewer bales than what was expected.
