Podcasts about dairynz

Heat stress is a growing challenge on our dairy farms, and the impact on your farm could be bigger than you think. In this episode, you'll hear how DairyNZ's summer trial at Scott Farm is testing common mitigation tools, and assessing their return on investment, to find the best solutions.Animal scientist Dr Charlotte Reed and senior animal care specialist Jac McGowan break down the research and share their early insights and observations from the trials. They also share current information and practical solutions you can use right now to keep your cows comfortable and productive in the heat. Heat Stress research and current informationDairyNZ invests in heat stress research to give you evidence behind the solutions that improve cow comfort, protect performance, and support sustainable, future‑ready farm systems.Read more about heat stress research in action at DairyNZGet current information for reducing heat stress in your dairy cowsHave feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz Connect with DairyNZ Stay up to date with advice, latest research, tools and resources. Read, browse, scroll, listen, or be there in person. Visit dairynz.co.nz/get-connected

Michelle Watt talks to Associate Director at DairyNZ Greg Collins and discusses the benefits of being involved in governance roles. To find out more about how to apply for a DNZ Governance Role head to www.dairynz.co.nz See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The chief executive of DairyNZ encourages farmers to vote YES in the upcoming Milksolids Levy vote. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Talking Dairy, Northland farmer and DairyNZ associate director Greg Collins shares an inside look at his year in the role, as the search for the next associate director to join the DairyNZ Board gets underway.  If you're a dairy farmer who's ready to grow your governance skills and contribute to the dairy sector, this episode offers some great insights into what you need to know.  Greg is the 15th associate director on DairyNZ's Board, since the initiative was introduced in 2013. The associate directorship is a one-year position that offers levy-paying farmers the chance to get first-hand governance experience.   Find out about the DairyNZ associate director role and how to apply Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz Connect with DairyNZ Stay up to date with advice, latest research, tools and resources. Read, browse, scroll, listen, or be there in person. Visit dairynz.co.nz/get-connected

In this DairyNZ Update, Michelle talks to David Cooper, a DairyNZ principal policy advisor about the reforms being made by Government to the RMA, and local government act, and how DairyNZ are working with farmers to make sure their voices are heard. To find out more about the RMA and local government reform and how it may affect farming, go to www.dairynz.co.nz or Ministry of the Environment website. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today on a special interview from DairyNZ, Michelle Watt talks to DairyNZ senior scientist Callum Eastwood, about what generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) is, and what opportunities it can provide to enhance farming systems. To find out more about how AI can help drive productivity on your farm, and check out the DairyNZ tool Daisy, got to www.dairynz.co.nz See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With the right structure, tools, and communication, contract milking and variable order sharemilking agreements become pathways for equity growth and stronger farm businesses. This episode brings you practical insights on what makes those agreements successful for both parties.DairyNZ senior business specialist Paul Bird, and contract milker Hayden Scott, share their experience and insights on aspects such as setting fair rates, managing cashflow in your first season, and having conversations that build trust. They also explore the expectations and pressures on each side, and how to align them so the business relationship stays strong over time.Learn more about contract milkingLearn more about setting up a contract milking agreementDownload the DairyNZ Contract Milking Premium Calculator. A monthly cashflow budget takes your annual cash budget and spreads your income and expenses across the year giving you a month-by-month basis picture. Enrol in a Dairy Training Contract Milking CourseHave feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz Connect with DairyNZ Stay up to date with advice, latest research, tools and resources. Read, browse, scroll, listen, or be there in person. Visit dairynz.co.nz/get-connected

On today's REX Daily Podcast, Dom talks with Rachel Shearer, GM of Wool at PGG Wrightson, about the establishment of a single, national live wool auction, what it means for auctioneering in Napier and the key reasons behind the move... He talks with Lincoln University Associate Professor Racheal Bryant about a low nitrate farmlet trial led by DairyNZ, the results after two years of the trial, including an average 30-40% reduction in nitrate leaching per year, and how the results have been achieved... And he talks with Kristen Baxter, Zoetis global senior manager for sustainability integration, about the development of an Avian flu vaccine for poultry which is effective against the current global strain of H5N1 High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza which is killing poultry and wildlife (avian and mammalian) globally. Tune in daily for the latest and greatest REX rural content on your favourite streaming platform, visit rexonline.co.nz and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn for more.

Dom talks with Lincoln University Associate Professor Racheal Bryant about a low nitrate farmlet trial led by DairyNZ, the results after two years of the trial, including an average 30-40% reduction in nitrate leaching per year, and how the results have been achieved. Tune in daily for the latest and greatest REX rural content on your favourite streaming platform, visit rexonline.co.nz and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn for more.

Artificial intelligence is suddenly everywhere — including on dairy farms.In this episode, you'll hear from DairyNZ senior scientist Dr Callum Eastwood and Perrin Ag senior consultant Rachel Durie, who have just completed a report on how dairy farmers are using generative artificial intelligence (GenAI).They share what they found, including examples of how farmers are already using GenAI, what's working well, the risks to watch for, and the opportunities ahead.Find out more about the research into GenAI use on dairy farms & read the report.How are you using GenAI tools on your farm? Take our short survey.Ready to try it? Try DairyNZ's DAiSY tool on the homepage or find out more here.Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz Connect with DairyNZ Stay up to date with advice, latest research, tools and resources. Read, browse, scroll, listen, or be there in person. Visit dairynz.co.nz/get-connected

DairyNZ’s chairwoman on what is ahead for the sector in 2026, and the upcoming levy vote. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Facial eczema is one of the toughest animal health challenges facing livestock farmers. It's estimated to cost the dairy and red meat sectors $330 million in lost production every year. As summer gets hotter and more humid, the risk rises – and research shows it's not just a North Island problem. In this episode of Talking Dairy, Jac McGowan talks with two experts who bring both science and practical know-how. Dr Cara Brosnahan, principal scientist at Beef + Lamb New Zealand, leads the Eliminating Facial Eczema Impacts research programme. She explains what the team is learning about the disease, with results from a recent farmer survey and what solutions this research will deliver for farmers in the future. Mitch Cooper, DairyNZ senior technical and policy advisor and former dairy vet, shares practical steps to prevent facial eczema, from monitoring spore counts to planning zinc supplementationFind out more about the research - B+LNZ Eliminating Facial Eczema Impacts programme View DairyNZ information about facial eczema Download the DairyNZ Facial Eczema Management Guide Get the 7 Steps to Managing Facial Eczema Using Zinc Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz Connect with DairyNZ Stay up to date with advice, latest research, tools and resources. Read, browse, scroll, listen, or be there in person. Visit dairynz.co.nz/get-connected

More farmers listened to this episode in 2025 than any other. Tune in to find out why it was so popular... What does it take to build a top herd? South Taranaki farmers Donovan Croot and Sophie Cookson started strong with a high Breeding Worth (BW) herd. But reaching the top 1% for BW in the country? That took smart decisions and a clear plan to drive genetic gain. In this episode, Donovan and Sophie share how they've achieved their results and the highlights from the joint DairyNZ and Fonterra event they hosted with DairyNZ area manager Talissa Squire. Did you know? More Progressing Dairy events on improving genetic gain are coming in 2026. Find one near you.Get the DairyNZ tools and resources mentioned in this episode: Breeding Worth - DairyNZ | DairyNZ Tools - Animal Herd Averages | DairyNZ Bull Search - DairyNZ | DairyNZ Bull Team - DairyNZ | DairyNZ Ranking of Active Sires (RAS) | DairyNZ InCalf reproduction gap calculator - DairyNZ | DairyNZ Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz Connect with DairyNZ Stay up to date with advice, latest research, tools and resources. Read, browse, scroll, listen, or be there in person. Visit dairynz.co.nz/get-connected

The chief executive of DairyNZ releases the latest break-even price ($8.50) for milk production, and celebrates some good wins in 2025 on the biosecurity and research fronts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Talking Dairy, we unpack the findings of the most in-depth independent return on investment (ROI) ever – commissioned by DairyNZ to provide farmers with more transparency. Join host Jac McGowan as she talks with Dr Alan Pearson from Nimmo Bell, the independent analysts behind the report, and DairyNZ Chair Tracy Brown, who commissioned the work.They explain:How $341 million in levy revenue delivered an estimated $2.98 billion in value for farmers between 2020 and 2025.Which initiatives delivered the biggest returns.Why collective investment is critical to keep dairy competitive and ready for the future.What DairyNZ is doing differently to ensure we're focused on what matters to farmers.If you've ever wondered “What's the return on my levy investment?”, this episode gives you the answer and the facts.About the milksolids levySummary of report into DairyNZ levy ROI to farmers Report into DairyNZ levy ROI to farmers Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz Connect with DairyNZ Stay up to date with advice, latest research, tools and resources. Read, browse, scroll, listen, or be there in person. Visit dairynz.co.nz/get-connected

In case you missed it... Dom talks with Andy Macfarlane, Canterbury farmer and Fonterra board member, about hosting a DairyNZ field day on plantain next week (Mon Dec 8), the benefits of plantain and his decision to step down from the board of Fonterra after eight years. Tune in daily for the latest and greatest REX rural content on your favourite streaming platform, visit rexonline.co.nz and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn for more.

On today's REX Daily Podcast, Dom talks with Andy Macfarlane, Canterbury farmer and Fonterra board member, about hosting a DairyNZ field day on plantain next week (Mon Dec 8), the benefits of plantain and his decision to step down from the board of Fonterra after eight years... He talks with Hannah Forbes and Mitchell Hogg about their business, 'Back Acres Conveying Tailing', the success they've had in just three years of operation and mentors and help they've had along the way... And he talks with Agrecovery Chief Executive Tony Wilson about the Government’s decision to approve regulations for a nationwide rural recycling scheme for agrichemicals and farm plastics, why he believes it's a landmark step for farmers and how it will work. Tune in daily for the latest and greatest REX rural content on your favourite streaming platform, visit rexonline.co.nz and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn for more.

Dom talks with Andy Macfarlane, Canterbury farmer and Fonterra board member, about hosting a DairyNZ field day on plantain next week (Mon Dec 8), the benefits of plantain and his decision to step down from the board of Fonterra after eight years. Tune in daily for the latest and greatest REX rural content on your favourite streaming platform, visit rexonline.co.nz and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn for more.

The Chair of DairyNZ previews the industry-good body’s return on levy-payer investment, the profitability of dairy farming at $9.50, and why you should always look under the hood!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Every minute in the farm dairy counts. Research shows the right milking routine can save you hours every week. In this episode of Talking Dairy in 10, host Jac McGowan chats with Dairy Training tutors Julie Morgan and Pete Morgan about how small changes at milking can make a big difference.They explain how the free MilkSmart workshop can help you fine-tune your milking routine using proven DairyNZ science including MaxT, which can shave minutes off every milking, and in some cases over three hours per week.If you'd like to know how you could get time back in your day, tune in to hear more and then check out Dairy Training to find a MilkSmart workshop near you.MilkSmart - Dairy Training About Dairy TrainingDairy Training is a subsidiary of DairyNZ and registered NZQA provider. With funding from the Tertiary Education Commission and support from DairyNZ, it delivers free training to help farmers build capability.Courses are expertly designed, teaching practical skills farmers can use immediately. Dairy Training also delivers popular DairyNZ-designed workshops such as MilkSmart and CalvingSmartCheck out dairytraining.co.nz to find courses and workshops available near you.Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz Connect with DairyNZ Stay up to date with advice, latest research, tools and resources. Read, browse, scroll, listen, or be there in person. Visit dairynz.co.nz/get-connected

How is the great animal care already happening on your farm helping New Zealand dairy stay ahead of global market expectations?In this episode of Talking Dairy, we explore why animal care matters for New Zealand's dairy competitiveness and how farmers have helped shape DairyNZ's research right from the start.You'll hear from Penny Timmer-Arends and Dr Stacey Hendriks as they explain what markets and consumers are asking for, how NZ compares internationally, and what influences cow comfort and welfare in our pasture-based farm systems.Penny and Stacey also discuss the challenges to good cow welfare that farmers are managing, like heat stress, comfortable lying surfaces and seasonal staffing pressure. They explain how current DairyNZ research – including work using wearable tech – is building better insights into how cows experience their environment, so farmers can make informed decisions, and our sector can stay future-ready.This episode gives you a practical overview of where animal care expectations are heading and the science that supports farmers to stay ahead. Links to more information mentioned in this episode:Animal Welfare - DairyNZ | DairyNZResearch - Science Projects - Heat Stress | DairyNZResearch - Science Projects - United States Mega Dairies | DairyNZThe development of a tool to assess cow quality of life based on system-level attributes across pastoral dairy farms - ScienceDirectHave feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz Connect with DairyNZ Stay up to date with advice, latest research, tools and resources. Read, browse, scroll, listen, or be there in person. Visit dairynz.co.nz/get-connected

In this episode of Talking Dairy in 10, host Jac McGowan chats with Noldy Rust, Chair of SMASH (Smaller Milk and Supply Herds), and Frank Portegys from DairyNZ, about how this grassroots initiative is helping farmers connect, learn, and grow stronger businesses together.SMASH began as a local idea to celebrate and support smaller herd farmers. Partnering with DairyNZ, it's grown into a nationwide network, offering practical learning open to everyone.Find out what's coming up on the SMASH calendar and what to expect when you head along to their events (we also heard there might be a good lunch there too).Learn more about SMASH or find an event: SMASH NZ About DairyNZ collaboration with sector partnersAt DairyNZ, we work alongside trusted partners to stretch your levy further, supporting better farming, stronger communities, and a more resilient dairy sector. These partnerships aren't just about funding. We roll up our sleeves too, offering time, tools and expertise to help deliver what matters most to farmers. By collaborating with sector leaders, we make an impact where it counts – reducing duplication, promoting better farming practices, and maintaining our independence and credibility. Together, we're building a future that's practical and inclusive, and maintains our competitive edge. Partnerships with organisations like SMASH reflect our shared commitment to delivering real value for New Zealand dairy farmers. Together, we're shaping a sector that's connected, capable and ready for the future. Find out more about DairyNZ partnerships.  Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz Connect with DairyNZ Stay up to date with advice, latest research, tools and resources. Read, browse, scroll, listen, or be there in person. Visit dairynz.co.nz/get-connected

The Chair of DairyNZ addresses the animal welfare issues surrounding cows not being milked (or being milked OAD) because of power cuts. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Talking Dairy in 10, get the inside scoop from Pasture Summit directors Robbie Ferris and Al Rayne. They reveal what's happening at the upcoming Pasture Summit events, and why they're a “must have” event on your calendar this spring. Spring 2025 events are being held in Canterbury on Thursday 27 November, and Taranaki on Friday 12 December. Find out more and register at: Pasture Summit Pasture Summit is a farmer-led initiative focused on securing the future of pastoral dairy food production. Its events and activities bring together practical insights, shared experiences, and a strong sense of purpose. As a key partner, DairyNZ contributes funding, research-backed content, and experts to help farmers build resilient, profitable businesses and sustainable communities. Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz Connect with DairyNZ Stay up to date with advice, latest research, tools and resources. Read, browse, scroll, listen, or be there in person. Visit dairynz.co.nz/get-connected

Want to make the most of your homegrown feed? This episode of Talking Dairy is a chance to catch up on what was shared at our recent Progressing Dairy events focused on maximising homegrown feed. If you couldn't make it along – or want to hear another farmers' and scientists' perspective - this episode brings the event to you.In this episode hosted by Area Manager Mattes Groenendijk, Waimakariri contract milkers Will and Sarah Gard share how they lifted pasture harvest and milk production by focusing on the basics. You'll also hear how they plan their grazing rounds, manage residuals, and what tools they use to make informed decisions. DairyNZ's Dawn Dalley talks about the science behind pasture allocation and mowing, while Sarah also shares insights from the DairyNZ Improved Forage Gains programme in her other job as Senior Project Manager and Programme Lead. Links to information mentioned in this episode:Find an event near you - DairyNZ Progressing Dairy eventsDairyNZ Resilient Pastures ProgrammePasture fundamentals - DairyNZ informationHave feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz Connect with DairyNZ Stay up to date with advice, latest research, tools and resources. Read, browse, scroll, listen, or be there in person. Visit dairynz.co.nz/get-connected

Milk price forecasts are holding steady, but costs remain high. What does that mean for your bottom line this season? DairyNZ economist Ben Marmont unpacks the latest Econ Tracker update and what watch for in the months ahead. For more information: DairyNZ Economic Tracker tool Access here Article: Dairy sector outlook remains steady Read moreHave feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz Connect with DairyNZ Stay up to date with advice, latest research, tools and resources. Read, browse, scroll, listen, or be there in person. Visit dairynz.co.nz/get-connected

Owning a dairy farm is still one of the biggest aspirations people hold. In this episode of Talking Dairy, Jac McGowan talks with Blair Robinson from Dairy Holdings and Tony Finch from DairyNZ about what a pathway to farm ownership looks like in 2025. Hear what sets those are successful apart from the rest and inspiring stories of farmers who have recently turned their goal into reality. Read or listen to the latest Inside Dairy story mentioned in this episode:Inside Dairy - Lessons along the way to landing the dream | DairyNZ Links to information mentioned in this episode:Business - DairyNZ | DairyNZDairy Holdings Limited | HomeHave feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz Connect with DairyNZ Stay up to date with advice, latest research, tools and resources. Read, browse, scroll, listen, or be there in person. Visit dairynz.co.nz/get-connected

Can a small amount of plantain in pasture really reduce nitrogen loss on-farm? New research from trials at Lincoln and Massey Universities suggests it can, and the results might surprise you. Kate Fransen shares the latest findings from DairyNZ's Plantain Potency and Practice Programme and an update on what's working, how farmers are using it effectively, and what's next for the programme. Find out more about this research programme: Plantain Potency and Practice Programme - DairyNZ | DairyNZ Read the latest news story on this research: Latest plantain trial results again show role in reducing nitrogen leaching | DairyNZ Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz Connect with DairyNZ Stay up to date with advice, latest research, tools and resources. Read, browse, scroll, listen, or be there in person. Visit dairynz.co.nz/get-connected

In this episode of Growing Our Future, host Katie Rodwell speaks with Jodie Goudswaard, DairyNZ's DairyBase Manager and recent Kellogg Rural Leadership scholar. Jodie's research explored the values, mindsets, and practices of top-performing dairy farmers who are proving that profitability and sustainability can go hand in hand. She shares what she learned from speaking directly with farmers, the role of community and data in decision-making, and why values-driven leadership may be the key to the sector's future.Tune in to learn that profitability and sustainability are not opposing forces in dairy farming. Like what you've heard? Follow our podcast for more great content.Show notes:Can dairy farmers be both highly profitable and environmentally sustainable? Challenging Old AssumptionsFor her Kellogg project, Jodie set out to test a common perception: that farmers can either focus on profitability or on environmental sustainability, but not both. By analysing DairyBase data and interviewing top-performing farmers, she discovered that the reality is very different. Farmers leading in both areas consistently operate from a clear set of values—particularly stewardship, resilience, and community connection.Family, Community, and SuccessionAcross her interviews, one theme was clear: these were family-owned farms, often run by couples, where succession planning was seen less as a legal exercise and more as a responsibility to future generations. Strong community networks and a willingness to learn from others also stood out as common threads.The Role of Data and Decision-MakingAll of the farmers Jodie spoke with used DairyBase, not as a compliance tool, but as a way to benchmark, measure progress, and guide decisions. They emphasised the importance of credible, evidence-based information and expressed a desire for stronger partnerships between farmers and scientists to build trust in the data driving change.From Research to Real ChangeJodie hopes her findings will encourage greater peer-to-peer learning, more opportunities for storytelling, and recognition of “values-led success” across the industry. She stresses that farmers don't need blanket solutions or more regulation—they need good examples, support to share their journeys, and trust to adapt in ways that fit their businesses.Reflections from KelloggLooking back on the Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme, Jodie describes it as a transformative six months of learning, reflection, and growth. The challenge of writing a 15,000-word report, the support of her cohort, and lessons in adaptive leadership have all left a lasting mark. She now applies many of these tools with her DairyNZ colleagues and is committed to building stronger leadership skills for the future.Key Takeaway:Profitability and sustainability are not opposing forces in dairy farming—they are two sides of the same coin, united by farmers' values. By celebrating stewardship, sharing credible science, and supporting farmer-to-farmer learning, the sector can thrive both financially and environmentally.

Why is it that some workplaces seem to flow better than others? In this episode of Talking Dairy, DairyNZ researchers Dr Lucy Hall and Brian Dela Rue share insights on how time is used on-farm from 10 in-depth workplace productivity case studies across New Zealand. You'll hear practical ways people are working smarter, not harder, and how small changes can free up time, boost productivity and keep business profitable. And, if you're thinking of making some changes or fine-tuning operations, there's also practical ideas and tips that could help.For more information about this research, visit Research - Workplace Productivity | DairyNZLinks to other information mentioned in this podcast:Productive workplaces | DairyNZ Creating a productive workplace | DairyNZWorkplace Efficiency Booster: a 6-step challenge | DairyNZInside Dairy - Understanding on-farm workplace productivity drivers | DairyNZ Building a high-performing farm team | Ep. 102 | DairyNZMilkSmart - DairyNZ | DairyNZHave feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz Connect with DairyNZ Stay up to date with advice, latest research, tools and resources. Read, browse, scroll, listen, or be there in person. Visit dairynz.co.nz/get-connected

There's an expectation farmer confidence will stay high as long as commodity prices stay up. The latest Rabobank survey's found farmers' faith in the broader agricultural economy is at its second highest level in the last decade, up to 46%. 51% expect it to improve in the year ahead. DairyNZ Board Member Jacqueline Rowarth told Mike Hosking the sector's cautiously positive, as trade may change at any time. But she says New Zealand is the best producer of essential amino acids at the lowest environmental impact, so our meat and milk is wanted. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

DairyNZ's Chief Science and Innovation Officer says its plantain programme continues to deliver promising results, with new data confirming that modest levels of plantain in pastures reduce nitrogen leaching, offering farmers a practical, science-backed tool to meet environmental goals.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What's going to improve our water quality and keep enabling productivity? In this episode, we discuss practical and proven solutions from key catchments. Johan van Ras, Ron Pellow and Justin Kitto share what's worked, from stream planting and edge-of-field mitigations to simple farm system changes that reduce nitrogen loss. You'll hear how farmers, iwi and communities made progress together through the Sustainable Catchments programme, and how you can apply the same ideas on your farm.The Sustainable Catchments programme was funded by investment from the Ministry for the Environment's Jobs for Nature programme and dairy farmers via the DairyNZ levy.You can also read the story of their success finding solutions on page 8 & 9 in the Inside Dairy August-October 2025 edition: Practical solutions for catchmentsLinks to information mentioned in this episode: Riparian planting - DairyNZ | DairyNZWaimea catchment | DairyNZSouth Canterbury Catchment | DairyNZMonitoring water quality in catchments | DairyNZStream ecosystem health | DairyNZLow N Systems | DairyNZCatchment Group Support | DairyNZHave feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz Follow DairyNZ on socials for the latest updates: FacebookInstagramLinkedIn

Tune into Talking Dairy in 10 for bite-size conversations.  As we're nearing the end of Biosecurity Awareness Month, DairyNZ experts Fi Roberts and Mitch Cooper join us to answer some common questions about biosecurity. Find out about practical tips for protecting your farm this spring, how prepared is NZ for biosecurity incursions, what are we keeping an eye on overseas, and how farmer voices are influencing biosecurity policy. DairyNZ's Strong Biosecurity Systems Programme aims to strengthen industry-wide biosecurity. Its 10-year sector ambition is for an integrated, science-based, and sustainably funded biosecurity system that reduces institutional fragmentation, improves coordination and ensures efficient investment of dairy farmer levies.  Links to information mentioned in this episode: Why our future depends on taking biosecurity seriously today | DairyNZ Biosecurity - DairyNZ | DairyNZ Visitor biosecurity management - DairyNZ | DairyNZ Biosecurity resources and tools | DairyNZ Your levy - DairyNZ | DairyNZ Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz Follow DairyNZ on socials for the latest updates: FacebookInstagramLinkedIn

Regional rules might feel like they're made a long way from the farm gate – yet they directly affect how you farm every day. From nutrient limits to land use rules, the decisions made at your regional council table can change what you can and can't do on-farm.In this episode, you'll hear from some of DairyNZ's regional policy team – David Cooper, Carina Ross, and Shaun Hazelton – on the big changes happening in policy right now and why your voice matters in these processes. Hear how DairyNZ is collaborating and working for dairy farmers to make sure rules are informed by research and grounded in reality, and how that protects your ability to farm productively and sustainably into the future.Since we recorded this episode, there's been a win for farmers on two issues that DairyNZ has been advocating behind the scenes on:1. More common-sense rules for low-risk activitiesThe government has changed the Resource Management Act so regional councils can set rules that let some low-risk farm activities go ahead without needing a consent, as long as they still help improve water quality over time. This means councils like Waikato and Southland can follow through on their original plans to keep things simple for low-risk activities, instead of farmers getting caught in unnecessary red tape.2. Breathing space for Otago water permitsIn Otago, some water permits will now be automatically extended for five more years. They've also removed rules around certain discharges that simply couldn't be put into practice. This takes pressure off until the new regional plan is in place – meaning farmers can keep operating without being stuck in limbo.Why it mattersThese changes are a direct result of ongoing advocacy from DairyNZ and others. They give farmers more certainty, reduce paperwork, and mean the rules better reflect the realities on-farm – all while keeping the focus on improving water quality for the long term.For more information about DairyNZ's advocacy work for dairy farmers, visit these links:Our policy and advocacy work for farmers | DairyNZResource management reform | DairyNZRegional freshwater advocacy - DairyNZ | DairyNZHave feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz Follow DairyNZ on socials for the latest updates: FacebookInstagramLinkedIn

The chair of DairyNZ comments on calving, the payout, Board of Directors elections and the RMA/NPS-FM submission. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tune into Talking Dairy in 10 for bite-size conversations. This episode brings you an update about DairyNZ's recent submission on the National Freshwater Framework under the Resource Management Act reform. DairyNZ's Principal Policy Advisor, David Cooper, joins us to share what we said, why, and what it could mean for your farm. Read more about our work on freshwater policy reform for farmers View the submission Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz Follow DairyNZ on socials for the latest updates: FacebookInstagramLinkedIn

Can your farm be both high profit and low in emissions intensity? What are the top-performing farms doing differently – and what can you learn from them?This episode of Talking Dairy explores new research that reveals how some of New Zealand's most profitable dairy farms are also achieving lower greenhouse gas emissions intensity. It's part of the Emissions and Profitability Project – a joint effort between DairyNZ, DairyBase, Fonterra and LIC – based on data from around 8,000 farms.Host Jac McGowan is joined by Mark Neal, Head of Data Science and Modelling from DairyNZ and Louise Cook, Programme Manager (Environmental) from Fonterra's On-Farm Excellence team, to unpack what the data shows, where the opportunities are, and what it all means for your farm. With international customers and milk processors increasingly focused on this metric, this research highlights how a balanced, homegrown approach can deliver results – both financially and environmentally.Useful tools and resources: Emissions and Profitability Project | DairyNZBusiness - DairyBase | DairyNZReproduction and mating | DairyNZFeed fundamentals | DairyNZLess methane | DairyNZClimate - Managing GHG emissions | DairyNZHave feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz Follow DairyNZ on socials for the latest updates: FacebookInstagramLinkedIn

Dom talks with Mike Bramley, DairyNZ Southern Northland & Auckland Senior Area Manager, about the re-introduction of the DairyNZ discussion groups, why they stopped them and what format they'll take in the future. Tune in daily for the latest and greatest REX rural content on your favourite streaming platform, visit rexonline.co.nz and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn for more.

On today's REX Daily Podcast, Dom talks with Sarah Barr from Rural Coach about Rabobank's White Paper ;Changing of the Guard', and the urgent need for clear farm succession planning, her role as a farm succession facilitator and the key things to get right when going through the process... He talks with Mick Withers from Rural Livestock about the healthy state of the beef market, what factors are causing it and concerns around supply... And he talks with Mike Bramley, DairyNZ Southern Northland & Auckland Senior Area Manager, about the re-introduction of the DairyNZ discussion groups, why they stopped them and what format they'll take in the future. Tune in daily for the latest and greatest REX rural content on your favourite streaming platform, visit rexonline.co.nz and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn for more.

What's the news? Fonterra has announced an On Farm Services incentive programme for qualifying farmer-shareholders. The scheme allows farmers who meet their cooperative difference standard, a baseline performance and efficiency standard, to receive what is effectively a $1,500 yearly subsidy to invest in on-farm technology or services. Ranges from animal performance tools from genetics companies, as well as pasture and data optimisation tools, and on-farm planting to improve carbon sequestration. Pasture Management: Apps and dashboards, AI and satellite imagery to manage and optimise pasture on farms. Data optimisation: Farmers deal with so much data flowing in through so many on-farm touchpoints, some services aggregate all that info into key insights farmers can rely on to make good decisions. Animal performance: Animal testing on their cows. Why it matters Obviously a massive deal – this contributes so much to on-farm costs and gives farmers a comfortable buffer to experiment with more technology that could be a massive help. It contributes to the trend of growing tech use on-farm by farmers. In a 2023 survey by DairyNZ, 18% of farmers reported using cow wearables (smart monitoring devices like collars or ear tags), compared to 3% in 2018. This growth translates to more than 820,000 cows now equipped with devices. It's great news because technology is helping farmers be more efficient in a world where they face more regulation and compliance requirements. Fonterra/NZ has a great reputation internationally for producing highly efficient, high-quality milk that's desirable compared to many other countries. It drew the attention of food conglomerates Mars and Nestle, who are kicking in to help fund the subsidy. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The chief executive of DairyNZ discusses the Foot and Mouth (FMD) Operational Agreement, improvements in winter grazing practices, and the successful recent Farmers Forums.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The chair of DairyNZ comments on the new season’s breakeven milk price ($8.68), the launch of Resilient Pastures at Fieldays, and 60 years of the Economic Survey.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We're joined by Bill Garland who farms at Maungatautari in the Waikato and Dr Katherine Tozer, Senior Scientist at AgResearch, to talk deferred grazing. Around for many decades in different forms, it's gaining more popularity as a way to transfer feed from spring to autumn/early winter, to regenerate pastures and to cut down on diesel, seed and cropping/regrassing costs.  Could it have a place in your system? For more details, check out the deferred grazing information on B+LNZ's Factsheet, DairyNZ's Deferred Grazing page and AgResearch's guide book. This research was supported by AgResearch, DairyNZ, MPI, Ellett Trust, Ballance Agri-nutrients, Bay of Plenty Regional Council, Waikato Regional Council, Greater Wellington Regional Council, Beef + Lamb New Zealand and especially the many farmers who contributed their time, paddocks and expertise. 

DairyNZ’s Chief Science Adviser looks back on 40 years of change in the dairy industry.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

DairyNZ's Head of Economics says the 25/26 season could be one for the history books with two back-to-back $10 payouts and the two decent payouts in a row for the first time in 25 years.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dairy farmers are being urged to pay down debt while they're in a good position to do so. Fonterra's already forecasting a midpoint of $10 this season. Industry organisation Dairy NZ expects the situation to continue, forecasting a payout above $10 next season. DairyNZ Head of Economics Mark Storey told Mike Hosking it's a good chance to clear debt while payouts are rising, and interest rates are falling. He says farmers have been making repayments in the last few seasons, and they should continue to do so. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We catch up with the Deputy Chair of DairyNZ on a consultation roadshow in Southland.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The new Chair of DairyNZ, former Nuffield Scholar, and Matamata dairy farmer says our biggest primary sector industry is looking good for 2025.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The chief executive of DairyNZ wraps up a very successful year for New Zealand's biggest industry and export earner.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.