Grounded in science, built to last

DairyNZ works to ensure that policies that impact dairy farming are practical, workable and enduring.

Inside Dairy

2 min read

Policy changes can be challenging for farmers, making it difficult for them to plan with confidence. Change on farms takes time, so clear direction is essential to ensure today’s efforts align with future expectations. Unfortunately, uncertainty remains.

Farm plan legislation, which has been under discussion for over five years but still hasn’t been implemented, is one example. And even when laws are passed, it takes time for regional councils to translate national policies into regionally relevant rules.

We want policy frameworks to endure no matter who is in government.

At DairyNZ, we’re focused on ensuring policies are evidence-based, practical and enduring. We advocate for solutions that achieve the right outcomes while providing farmers with the tools and flexibility to make them happen.

We want policy frameworks to endure no matter who is in government, and we recognise the importance of working across all parties.

Collaboration is key, and we’ve been working closely with Beef + Lamb New Zealand and Federated Farmers to ensure a strong, united voice on the big issues across the pastoral sector. While we may not always agree on every detail, we know alignment makes a real difference in shaping policies that work for farmers.

We bring science, research and a whole-farm system approach to policy discussions, ensuring a strong evidence base to inform policy direction, and a clear understanding of its implications. On freshwater, for example, our economic analysis has helped highlight what different proposals could mean for individual farmers and the sector as a whole.

Change takes time, but DairyNZ’s advocacy has been instrumental in the progress over the past five years. Wins like the split-gas approach for methane, shifting away from strict pugging rules to manage wintering, progress towards risk-based environmental farm plans, keeping dairy out of the Emissions Trading Scheme, and a more pragmatic approach to freshwater nitrogen limits, show that persistence pays off.

Policy is a key focus of levy investment, and this is a great example of the collective strength it brings – helping achieve what would be difficult for individual farmers to do alone.

We know how important it is to be in the room, working on solutions rather than pushing back from the sidelines. Groups like the Dairy Environment Leaders programme help ensure farmers’ voices are at the heart of these conversations.

David Burger believes clear, practical policies are key to giving farmers confidence for the future.

Keep an eye out for consultation opportunities, and visit our website for the latest updates dairynz.co.nz/policy-and-advocacy.

Advocating for dairy's future

DairyNZ’s policy and advocacy work is driven by our purpose – to progress a positive future for dairy farming.

We want to understand the issues that matter most to dairy farmers, and we use that understanding, alongside our credible science, to advocate for better outcomes for dairy farmers and the sector.

TB plan review

Status: under review

The TB programme is currently undergoing a 10-year review of its plan. DairyNZ and other stakeholders are considering options for its future direction. Farmer consultation is anticipated in 2025, and a new plan will be implemented in 2026.

Improving freshwater policy

Status: pending

The Government is considering changes to the National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management. Any proposed reforms will likely undergo consultation. DairyNZ continues to engage with ministers, officials, and industry partners to ensure that farmers' voices are heard as freshwater policies evolve.

Ag and Hort products review

Status: implementation of recommendations

The Agricultural and Horticultural Products Regulatory Review examined the approval process for the ACVM* and HSNO** Acts. DairyNZ emphasised restricted access to biosecurity and animal health tools and research into greenhouse gas reduction. The Cabinet accepted all 16 recommendations to reduce red tape, aiming to improve product access and boost productivity.

Gene technology reform

Status: select committee stage

The Gene Technology Bill is before the Health Select Committee. DairyNZ has presented to the committee in support of our submission on the Bill, which agrees with the overall intent of the reform but has some areas of concern.

Read the DairyNZ submission at dairynz.co.nz/gene-tech

Climate change

Status: under review

The Government has yet to decide whether to adjust the 2050 climate targets, based on two reports received late last year. The independent methane review panel report recommended a revised methane target reduction by 2050, whereas the Climate Change Commission has recommended 35-47% by 2050. The current legislated target for methane is a 24-47% reduction by 2050.

FMD operational agreement

Status: in development

DairyNZ and livestock sector partners are negotiating an operational agreement with the Crown regarding foot and mouth disease (FMD) readiness and response. This agreement, expected to be signed in late 2025, will formalise joint decision-making regarding FMD readiness and response activities.

Waikato Plan Change 1 (PC1)

Status: Awaiting a decision

Waikato PC1 has been a decade-long process. DairyNZ has submitted evidence to the Environment Court and awaits a decision. It is working with Waikato Regional Council and suppliers to ensure farmers have the right tools and resources when the decision comes.

To learn more, visit dairynz.co.nz/plan-change-1

*ACVM: Agricultural Compounds and Veterinary Medicines
**HSNO: Hazardous Substances and New Organisms