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 202...

In this episode of Talking Dairy in 10, animal scientist Dr Stacey Hendriks explains how research using wearable technology is building a deeper understanding of cow wellbeing and their experience in pasture-based systems. Hear how scientists are combining a mix of tech and data in innovative ways to enhance research into animal care as they aim to uncover how cows respond to heat stress and other challenges, and test strategies like shade and sprinklers to see what really works. The goal? To...

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...

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 a...

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 ca...

With Fonterra’s sale of global consumer and associated businesses, Mainland Group, to Lactalis now approved, many shareholder farmers will soon receive a sizeable capital return, alongside strong milk prices. So, what’s the smartest move when opportunity knocks? In this episode of Talking Dairy, Jac McGowan talks with financial commentator Martin Hawes and MBS Advisors director and rural accountant Nigel McWilliam about how to make confident, practical decisions that strengthen both your farm...

In this episode of Talking Dairy, we explore the latest DairyBase upgrades that make benchmarking faster and easier. DairyBase, our farm benchmarking tool, now connects with Farm Focus – and soon with tools like MINDA and Fonterra – so your financial and herd data flows in with just a few clicks. That means quicker cashflow reports, timely insights, and less time at your desk. Hear from DairyBase manager (and dairy farmer) Jodie Goudswaard, and South Waikato and Lower Waipa area m...

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 futur...

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...

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 more Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz Connect with DairyNZ Stay up to date with advic...

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 ...

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 | D...

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, t...

Tune into Talking Dairy in 10 for bite-size conversations. In this update about the International Precision Dairy Farming Conference, host Jac McGowan chats with DairyNZ Head of Science, Nicolas Lyons. They unpack what precision dairy farming really means, why this global event is a big deal for New Zealand, and how technology can make farming easier, more efficient, and sustainable. Hear about the world-class speakers, on-farm tours, and why this is a must-attend event for farmers who ...

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. ...

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 ...

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 Da...

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...

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 Ja...

In this episode of Talking Dairy, we’re talking about pasture – the foundation of New Zealand farming. Farmers in the upper North Island have been noticing changes for a while now: pastures that don’t last as long, more pests, and weather that’s harder to predict. These challenges are backed up by DairyNZ data that shows pasture growth in Northland and Waikato has dropped by up to one tonne of dry matter per hectare each decade. To help solve this problem, a new sector-wide research initiativ...