Feed for Thought

Recorded on the Rural Roadie, tune in as Matt and Wade sit down in the caravan with Canterbury farmer, Will Bailey, to discuss the impact of a newly built feed pad infrastructure on his dairy farm operation. The team delve into Will's feeding strategy and how targeted investments can deliver valuable returns. The 300-metre feeding face accommodates up to 400 cows whilst eliminating wastage. Beyond these efficiencies, the system has delivered additional benefits such as reduced lane damage, cleaner equipment, and the ability to feed in any weather conditions.Having found their "sweet spot" for cow numbers and feed efficiency, Will's experience offers valuable insights and considerations on feed pad infrastructure investments.

Tune in as Wade and Matt Towers, local Area Manager, sit down with Dave Swney, the 2025 maize silage catalogue cover and Waikato Dairy Farmer. Dave shares his journey of returning to the family dairy farm, transforming it into a sustainable and efficient System 5 operation south of Te Awamutu. In this episode, Dave shares the challenges faced over this period, including learning the importance of ‘time budgeting', dealing with health issues and reducing the stocking rate to improve farm performance. By bringing young stock management back to the farm, Dave highlights the gains of better control and reduced costs, while balancing growing maize on farm with buying in feed to spread risk. The team then delve into Dave's strategic approach to maintaining feeding consistency, improving reproduction results from 20% to 12% empty rates and emphasising the value of external expertise and farmer networks in continually improving the operation. 

Tune in to our latest episode with Taranaki farmers Craig Lynskey and Kieran Bourke as they share their journey transitioning from spring to autumn calving and the strategic advantages of this approach. The team discuss how increasing mild winters and challenging summer droughts pushed them toward this strategic shift. "Our growth rates through summer are often in single digits, yet consistently 40-45 in most winters," Kieran explains, highlighting the fundamental mismatch between traditional calving patterns and weather conditions.  Craig and Kieran's systems now capitalize on the autumn flush and strong winter growth, with cows reaching peak production precisely when high-quality feed becomes abundant. Both system 4 operations with feed pads and storage facilities. The results speak for themselves, with Kieran's Holstein herd averaging an impressive 650-670 kgMS/cow despite high stocking rates.  The team dig into the practical aspects of their transition, from staggered calving dates starting in early March to grazing management strategies that maintain higher residuals through winter. Their advice for farmers considering similar transitions is clear: ensure you have a suitable climate, proper infrastructure, and systems to maintain feed quality year-round. The winter milk premium is "just the cherry on top" – the real value lies in aligning production with your farm's natural growth patterns in a changing climate. 

Introducing Matt and Wade's Rural Roadie! A 3-week caravan tour travelling rural New Zealand starting March 17 in the Waikato ending in Timaru on April 4. Matt Dalley and Wade Bell, our Farm Systems Specialists and Feed for Thought podcast hosts are cutting tracks through the country, hosting on-farm events, podcasts, RP evenings and more, offering farmers, growers, contractors, consultants, and rural professionals a chance to gain valuable insights into the profitable use of maize silage and the efficiencies in farm feeding systems. Head to, www.pioneer.co.nz/matt-and-wades-rural-roadie or Google 'Matt and Wade's Rural Roadie' to find out more about where they're heading and the events taking place along the way.

Field Operations Manager, Duncan Grant, shares his decade-long journey from field technician to leading the field operations in Gisborne. Discover the strategies and challenges of coordinating contract growers to maintain seed purity and manage cross-pollination risks. Learn from Duncan's insights the dynamic planning needed to tackle logistical hurdles presented by unpredictable weather conditions to produce some of New Zealand's highest quality seed.  

In our first episode of the year, Logan Dawson, 2024 Waikato Share Farmer of the Year (alongside wife, Sian Dawson), joins Wade and Matt to share his farming journey to managing an 880-cow share milking business in the Waikato. The team explores Logan and Sian's system, examining how split calving and precise diets boost milk production. Logan explains balancing pasture and supplements to achieve high production metrics while keeping operations simple. They also discuss the financial strategies and technological advancements behind their on-farm success.Logan explains how his custom feeding tools and data analysis optimise feeding levels, leading to high profits per hectare.Join us for a thought-provoking episode filled with practical insights and forward-thinking approaches.

In our last episode for the year, Matt and Wade are thrilled to be joined by a familiar face and former Feed for Thought host, Ian Williams. Ian's travels to the US earlier this year brought him face-to-face with exceptional farming practices and an unforgettable salmon fishing trip guided by a former scientist. With Ian's vivid storytelling, you'll hear about the shared dedication and adaptations of farmers worldwide and chuckle at some light-hearted chatter about theories that arose along the way. Switching gears, the team also dive into the rapidly evolving world of AI and technology and Ian's predictions on how technology will shape the future of farming. 

In this episode, the team unpack the intricacies of managing one of Australia's largest feedlot operations with special guest, Ben Carrigan, the General Manager of Commodities, Farms, and Transport at Mort & Co. Australia.  You'll gain insights into the complex feed composition and innovative practices that set Mort & Co. apart. Ben takes us through their diversified business model that includes not only feed lotting and branded beef but also Mort & Co's approach to turning effluent into granulated fertilizer, boosting soil health and creating new market opportunities.  With sustainable practices at the forefront Ben sheds light on the adjustments in cattle diets and procurement processes essential for maintaining their high standards. From their ambitious Predictor Plus program aimed at optimizing herd management and reducing emissions to their commitment to significant carbon footprint reductions by 2030, this episode is packed with valuable lessons on balancing animal welfare, operational efficiency, and sustainability.

With a rich family history in dairy farming, Michael Phillips and Andrew Evans (Bubbles) join Matt and Wade to discuss the strategy behind cows, comfort and compost at Dannevirke-based dairy farming operation, Waka Dairies.  Michael and Bubbles discuss the strategic shifts made as part of Waka Dairies' succession plan, with leadership and team culture, and infrastructure improvements at the core. The team delve into the impact of composting shelters and how this infrastructure has impacted day-to-day operations, animal health, feed efficiency, and environmental footprint. With a robust system, including effluent ponds and water storage, the farm stands resilient against local climate conditions. Tune in to hear firsthand how these changes have set new benchmarks in farm productivity.

Simon Nitschke, the Arable Farmer of the Year, Maize Farmer of the Year, and National Pioneer Yield Cup winner, joins Matt and Wade to discuss the strategy and success of Rangitikei enterprise, Arable Solutions.  This episode explores supply and demand management, particularly for maize grain. We discuss the impact of market fluctuations, the importance of forward planning, and how collaboration with end users can be a game-changer. Efficiency and sustainability are at the core of this conversation as the team discusses the challenges and opportunities within the industry.

With a passion for dairy farming, Logan Scott, Te Awamutu East and South Waikato Area Manager and small block owner brings a unique perspective on land and crop management, maize and agronomy.  This episode delves into Logan's agronomy knowledge, sharing strategies for identifying potential issues and guiding effective management decisions, particularly through the critical V3 to V6 growth stages of maize. Join the team in this engaging discussion, which offers practical insights for improved crop outcomes. 

Rural Professional of the Year and Senior Lecturer in Agribusiness and Management at Lincoln University, Dan Smith, joins Wade and Matt on this episode to share his strategies for nurturing future-ready students. You'll hear about his dynamic approach to equipping students with timeless skills covering the key competencies for young agricultural professionals to succeed in the rapidly evolving industry. Dan shares the initiatives that Lincoln University is taking to develop and prepare students for the workforce. The conversation delves into the importance of soft skills, the rapid technological advancements in agriculture, and the importance of developing skills and knowledge beyond the reach of artificial intelligence. Whether you're passionate about traditional farming, a rural profession, or entrepreneurial ventures, Dan's insights will motivate and inform you about the boundless potential and diverse career opportunities within the agriculture sector.

Interested in understanding how you can mitigate feed quality losses? In this episode, Matt is joined by Shaun Body, our Portfolio Manager, and Helen France, our Hawke's Bay, Tararua & Wairarapa Area Manager, to discuss the value proposition of inoculant and how to get more value from your grass silage by minimising the drop in quality.If you have any questions about using spring inoculants, please contact your contractor, merchant rep, or local area manager.

Join us as Jo Bills, Director for Global Insights at EverAg, breaks down the differences in supply chain dynamics, pasture-based efficiencies, and export strategies between New Zealand and Australia. Learn how Australia's more productive cows compare to New Zealand's pasture-based herds. We also touch on greenhouse gas emissions and Fonterra's strategic manoeuvres, providing a comprehensive outlook on the unique challenges and strengths of each country's dairy sector.   The discussion delves into the pressures of reducing carbon footprints amidst rising customer expectations and the potential compensations for sustainability efforts. The team also cover China's ambition for dairy self-sufficiency and the global ripple effects of their evolving market. Southeast Asia's growing importance as a key market for New Zealand is highlighted, alongside the competitive rise of the United States in the global dairy arena. Tune in for an in-depth exploration of the trends and challenges shaping the future of the global dairy industry.

In this episode, international guest Grant Groene, the former Global Seed Agronomy Lead for Pioneer US, joins Dr. Rowland Tsimba, National Research and Agronomy Manager, Wade and Matt to delve into global agronomy and future crop development.Together, the team discuss the process of genetic development in maize, from the rigorous testing of hybrids to the impressive yield advancements achieved in different environments. Also, they discuss the vital role of international collaboration in agriculture, the transformative power of shared knowledge, and the challenges faced by farmers worldwide. Join us for an episode packed with global insights and cutting-edge practices.

Raewyn Densley joins us to discuss AgFirst's recent Our Land and Water funded project. Our Land and Water aims to enhance the production and productivity of New Zealand's primary sector while maintaining and improving the quality of the country's land and water for future generations. Raewyn covers the global grain market shift during the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, and geopolitical tensions. She explores how these factors impact grain prices, create global shortages, and alter shipping logistics whilst spotlighting New Zealand's unique challenges and opportunities. Raewyn provides insights into how local grain production could be increased. She also discusses how many dairy farmers could grow their own feed whilst maintaining or enhancing profitability and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.This episode is jam-packed with knowledge invested in the future of New Zealand's primary sector and offers actionable strategies for increasing profitability while reducing environmental impact.

Join us as we explore the intersection between farm efficiency and reducing emissions with Malcolm Ellis, Fonterra's Strategic Advisor. Malcolm shares the difference between emissions intensity and absolute emissions and discusses Fonterra's strategic initiatives to support farmers in making impactful changes.  The team balances animal efficiency and environmental sustainability by examining the contrasts in productivity and efficiency, delving into actionable strategies to enhance herd quality without reducing stocking rates. Key factors like reproductive performance, feed efficiency, and emissions intensity take centre stage, providing a roadmap for farmers to boost productivity while lowering environmental impact.  The conversation also highlights the power of collaboration within the dairy sector. From rural professionals to regulatory bodies, we discuss the collective efforts needed to overcome challenges and optimize feed and pasture utilization. Reflecting on the evolution of the dairy industry, Malcolm sheds light on the wealth of data available to farmers and how leveraging new technologies is crucial for future success. 

In this episode, we delve into the pivotal role of sustainability in shaping the future of dairy farming. We are privileged to have Charlotte Rutherford, Fonterra's Director of Sustainability, join Wade and Matt in a thought-provoking discussion. Together, they explore the transformation of environmental efforts from basic compliance to tackling global sustainability challenges. Charlotte highlights the market's increasing demand for sustainable products and answers the question of what it takes to achieve a 30% reduction in emission intensity by 2030 and aim for near-zero emissions by 2050. She delves into Fonterra's comprehensive climate strategy and scope three objectives, emphasizing the importance of investments in projects like AgriZero and the intricate dynamics of gaining cooperative-wide support for sustainability goals. Tune in to understand why there is such a growing focus on sustainability and GHG emissions and how these efforts are transforming the future of dairy farming.

Join Dr. Rowland Tsimba, National Research and Agronomy Manager, Wade, and Matt as they sit down to discuss optimal plant populations and the impact this has on crop yield and quality. The team brings a global perspective to the discussion by comparing maize planting strategies in the United States and New Zealand. They highlight the importance of managing plant populations for silage versus grain and the value of tailoring planting decisions to your farm's environmental and soil conditions. This podcast will equip you with practical insights to make informed planting decisions in the upcoming spring.

In this episode, Lower North Island Regional Manager Mark Burke shares insight on the maize grain market opportunities and considerations. Mark delves into the pressures of regional demands, maize contracts, and pricing tactics and how these factors converge to shape the current grain market. The team discusses the methods growers use to ensure profitable sales, highlighting the significance of careful planning, especially after the recent surge in grain prices. With a focus on the challenges presented by weather and expenses, this episode covers the intricacies between supply and demand and how to best navigate the market and make informed decisions for next season.

In an episode packed with technological advancements, adaptive strategies, and a love for the agriculture industry, join Wade and Hamish as they sit down with David Wordsworth, Northland maize grain grower and cover of our 2024 grain catalogue. David shares the family's journey from dairy and beef farming to introducing maize into the grain industry in the 1970s. The team discusses the growth of Grain Co, which has become a symbol of self-sufficiency by reducing transport costs and supporting dairy farms with locally grown kibble maize and calf meal. We'll delve into the transition from full cultivation to the innovative no-till approach that has boosted soil health and challenged conventional beliefs around yield. 

From dairying in Otago to the Chief Executive of Pouarua Farms, an iwi-owned 2200-hectare operation in the Hauraki Plains, Jenna Smith, the cover of our 2024 Maize Silage catalogue, joins Wade and Brent Bishop, Upper North Island Regional Manager, to recount her remarkable journey. This episode covers the details of farming on peatlands into the larger narrative of ecological stewardship. The evolution of a 2200-hectare farm as it shifts from traditional animal husbandry to pioneering dairy practices, beef finishing, blueberry orchards and maize silage and grain operations. Jenna discusses the proactive strategies for peatland management and the exciting research initiatives on deck. 

Join Wade and Matt as they sit down with Adrian Ball to the delve into the story of the Ball family's Waikato farm that's seen transformation from traditional cattle grazing to a beacon of dairy and beef production excellence. You'll hear how success isn't just counted in output but in the wellbeing of staff, the welfare of animals, and the stewardship of the environment. The team get into a deep-rooted discussion on dairy-derived beef, the farm as an enjoyable workplace, and the forward-thinking strategies ensuring profitability goes hand in hand with sustainability.

In our latest episode, joining Matt and Wade are Waikato based, John Numan, farm owner and Brian Basi, herd-owning sharemilker. Together, they explain how they develop and maintain a strong owner share-milker relationship and share some of the farm systems and business fundamentals that support their businesses to achieve the goals of both parties.

The choppers are out, and we're approaching the pointy end of the 2023/24 maize season. Wade and Matt caught up with Craig Maxwell, the Central North Island Regional Manager, to chat about the discussions the Pioneer team are having with growers and contractors leading up to harvest. 

With harvest underway around the country, the boys welcome Shaun Body, Pioneer's Portfolio Manager, back onto the podcast.  The team discuss the science and value proposition of inoculant and how to get more from your maize silage by minimising the drop in quality throughout the harvest, ensiling, and feeding out process. 

Welcome to Season 2 of Feed for Thought; kicking off the new season is our first farmer story with Roger Dalrymple of Waitatapia Farming.In this episode, Roger shares how the family business has developed over the years from lupin-dominated, low-intensive farming to a diverse enterprise. Farming dairy, forestry, vegetables, and everything in between, the Dalrymple's have navigated the highs and lows of farming with resilience and innovation. Roger has been an integral part of the Rangitikei Rivers Catchment Collective and shares with us the importance of catchment groups and the positive impact they have.

In Ian's final episode on the show, the team challenge him with the question of what the future of the industry looks like. Ian covers topics around future farm systems, government regulations, and what farming may look like in the future.

With retirement on the horizon for Ian Williams, the boys caught up to yarn about what Ian has seen in the past 25 years of his career, winding back to farm systems in 1999 and how they have changed and developed over time.This is the first episode of two that pay a special tribute to Ian Williams and his long-standing service to Pioneer. Tune back next week to hear what Ian has to say about where he sees the future of the New Zealand agriculture industry heading.

In this episode, Ian Williams caught up with Matte Kirk to discuss how planting has rolled out over the country and the actions they're each taking to keep their top paddock in check this busy festive season. The boys also chat about Surfing for Farmers, which offers a unique opportunity for New Zealand farmers to take a break from their all-consuming businesses and engage in outdoor activities, enjoy fresh air, exercise, and connect with fellow farmers, rural families, and industry professionals. If you're keen to find out more visit, Surfing for Farmers.

In this episode, Hamish Gow and the team expand on the points made in part 1 and delve into the topic of global value chains and trade. This episode provides insights and take-home points around the transition from a rules-based trade to values-based trade and where we are heading within New Zealand farming.

In this episode, the boys catch up with Hamish Gow and talk about the future of NZ Farming systems. Hamish is the Sir Graeme Harrison Professorial Chair in Global Value Chains and Trade at Lincoln University. They touch on how New Zealand agriculture has changed over time and what the future may look like. 

Tune in to this episode, where the team discuss the maize planting window.  They cover the key points around hybrid maturity options, yield potential of shorter maturity hybrids, other crop options to fit different farm systems and the impact of getting pasture back in on time at the other end of the maize season.

In this episode, Professor Fred Below expands on the points made in part 1. Fred nails down the things farmers can do to close the yield gap and take advantage of the yield potential of todays hybrids.

Earlier this year, Ian Williams welcomed Professor Fred Below from the University of Illinois and Dr. Rowland Tsimba, Pioneer's National Research & Agronomy Manager, to discuss the best crop management practices growers can implement to gain higher yields and how maize genetic potential has developed over time. Tune back in next week for part two.

A common question the team are hearing coming into spring is "where can I trim my costs without compromising production for the season?". In this episode, the team welcome Regional Manager, Dave McDonald onto the podcast to unpack line by line the maize growing costs.

In this episode, Wade and Matt catch up with two contractors from across the ditch, Daniel Rethus from Rethus Contracting and Hayden Bowden from Bowdens Contracting in Eastern Australia, to chat about crops they plant and harvest, potential yields and an insight into how strip tillage benefits their customers.

With the recent drop in forecast payout from Fonterra, the boys caught up to discuss some key considerations to help navigate the season ahead. 

In this episode, Ian and Wade welcome Pioneer's National Grain Account Manager, Hamish Johnstone, onto the podcast to cover all things maize grain. The team cover the international and local grain markets, the opportunities of maize grain and how it can fit into a dairy system.

One question we are hearing a lot recently is, 'Should we stick with the dairy system we've got, or should we change?'. In this episode, Ian and Wade discuss the important factors farmers should consider across all dairy systems. 

"You can only control the controllables". Off the back of a tough season, Ian Williams and Matte Kirk sit down with Mike Green from Rural Support Trust to discuss the vital role that Rural Support Trust plays within the agriculture community plus provide tips and tricks for maintaining and building yours and your team's mental health. 

Tune in to this episode where Wade announces the winner of our Fielday's competition, and our Farm System Specialists unpack the topic around excess feed on farm. 

Matt, Ian and Wade catch up to discuss the maize market in the South Island. They touch on some of the reasons why maize usage has increased in the South Island over the past few years.

In this episode, the boys sit down to discuss and unpack why this year we have seen higher than normal empty rates. Tune in to hear Wade and Ian's tips and tricks to help boost submission and conception rates this coming spring.

Following our last episode around growing on farm vs buying in, the team discuss the environmental considerations when growing maize. Tune in to hear Ian's thoughts around this topic.

In this episode Ian and Wade go toe to toe on whether growing maize on farm or buying it in is the most economic option. Both the boys gave some thought-provoking points, listen in to see what may suit your system best. 

With rising feed and farm working costs, the Farm Systems team caught up to discuss whether the 5% rule still applies when it comes to costing in the 'need for feed'.

Tune in to the latest episode of Feed for Thought where Ian and Wade consider the options around drying off or milking on. 

In this episode Ian and Wade are joined by Shaun Body Pioneer's portfolio manager. The boys cover everything from planning to harvest and stack management. 

In this episode the team discuss feeding protein in summer, understanding how much protein a cow requires in their diet during mid-lactation, and the feed options available if you're short of protein. 

In light of the severe weather events cause by cyclone Gabrielle Ian Williams sat down with Rowland Tsimba to discuss the impacts on maize crops and some key things to consider when assessing damaged crops. We recognise that this has been a stressful time, in fact a stressful season for farmers. If you need any assistance in terms of managing impacted maize crops, reworking feed plans or even just someone to talk to, give your local rep a call.