Missed milkings due to power cuts or extreme weather events can be managed with minimal negative impacts on milk production. DairyNZ research indicates that cows in mid-lactation can tolerate delays, but early lactation cows require more care.

Ben Wilson contract milks two family-owned dairy farm properties near Kirwee, Canterbury. The farms are owned in an equity partnership between Ben, his parents and his brother.

Corrie and Donna Smit own this low input farm business near Edgecumbe, milking on two similar-sized platforms with a support block providing the majority of winter and young stock grazing.

Dairy stockmanship covers interactions between cows and people, and when practised effectively, creates a safe and efficient work environment; it also improves animal health and production.

How do we reduce methane emissions from cattle within our pasture-based farming system? And when will farmers have solutions ready to use on-farm?

Our new and improved Body Condition Scoring (BCS) app makes scoring your cows faster and easier. Designed with farmer feedback and testing, the app helps you record, track and analyse BCS data with ease.

Fodder beet has a lot to offer when managed correctly. It has a high yield potential and its high energy is great for putting body condition on cows.

How does heat stress affect cows, what are some warning signs, and what can you do on farm to make life more comfortable for your cows?

Bulk milk urea concentration is a near real-time indicator of the dietary crude protein status of dairy herds and their nitrogen use efficiency, helping to support feed and nitrogen management decisions in pasture-based systems.

Review your heat detection strategy each season, ensuring it includes careful planning, effective use of aids, keen observation, accurate record-keeping, and regular staff training.

How to interpret rumination data and use daily rumination time for day-to-day decision-making.