David Cooper

David sees his role as helping connect the dots between science, policy, and what’s happening on-farm. His ultimate reward is seeing policies support the outcomes farmers are trying to achieve.

“It’s work that really matters to me. It sits at the intersection of people, natural resources, and policy,” says David.

“People might picture someone who sits at a screen reading and writing policy, and that’s a large part of our work. But it’s broader than that. Our Policy team aims to shape complex environmental policies into practical outcomes, by making sure our positions are technically sound and reflect what farmers are really dealing with.

“That involves listening to a range of technical experts, rural professionals and other people’s perspectives – including, most importantly, those of the farmers themselves – and working to package it all into regulations.”

David acknowledges how complex farming is – and how smart and strategic farmers are, offering unique insights into resource management policy.

“Our policy work reflects this complexity. Much of it goes unseen, happening quietly over many years. It also requires a dynamic mix of skills, including policy translation and development, science, economics, strategic thinking and stakeholder engagement.

“One moment I’m hearing from farmers about a regulatory issue, the next I’m talking to government officials about national policy. I’ll meet with a regional council, listen to a DairyNZ scientist explain environmental effects, or read an economic report focusing on dairy.”

Farmers are at the heart of New Zealand’s food system and rural communities, says David. They’re often the first to respond to environmental and economic challenges. “It’s our job to make sure they feel supported.”

David’s most rewarding moments are when everyone walks away from the table feeling happy with the outcome.

“When farmers’ concerns have shaped a policy, and the people writing and implementing the rules understand the on-farm realities, it’s incredibly satisfying to have been part of that process in connecting the dots.”

• Find out more about DairyNZ's other policy team members.
• Learn more about DairyNZ's policy, advocacy and regulation work on behalf of farmers.