This section will help you make informed decisions when building a new dairy or installing technology.

Building a new dairy can be a daunting task. In many situations it’s left up to the farmer to be the project manager, co-ordinating the dairy builder, plant installer, electrician, plumber etc.

It is difficult to make significant changes once concrete is poured so spending time up front ensuring you have the layout, design and timelines for each step right will likely save time and money later on.

Building a new dairy

These pages provide information on the things to consider before and during the building process.

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  Do you need an upgrade?

  Big projects often require a large outlay. Check out our helpful advice and tips here.

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  Choosing your dairy and yard type

  Get help and advice in deciding which dairy type best suits your needs.

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  Blueprints and Building

  Information and example dairy layouts to assist with project management.

Technology and automation

These pages provides information on what the technology does and whether it may be of benefit in your situation. This is relevant for new dairies or retrofitting to existing dairies.

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  Feeding Systems

  Automatic feeding systems provide a lot of flexibility, find out more here.

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  Electronic ID

  Find out how EID systems can improve efficiency, simplify data collection and produce valuable information.

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  Drafting Systems

  Well designed and accurate drafting systems are becoming more important as herd sizes expand.

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  Robotic Milking

  Information about robotic milking systems covering everything from what to consider, to getting started and fine tuning.

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  Automated mastitis detection

  Find out how automated mastitis detection (AMD) systems work, factors to consider when choosing a system, and the systems available in New Zealand.

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  Automated heat detection

  Automated heat detection uses technology to help with the manual task of identifying cycling cows.