DairyNZ’s latest Econ Tracker update shows most farms will still finish the season in a positive position, although the gap has narrowed compared with early season expectations.

After two years exploring extended lactation to reduce peak workload and non-replacement calves, the Extended Lactation project has added a commercial farm alongside the existing farmlet trial.

Animal wellbeing is in the spotlight, and DairyNZ is drawing on new research to show how our pasture-based farms measure up worldwide.

The strength of New Zealand dairy farming is in making the most of pasture grown on farm. Refocusing on the basics, measuring covers, tracking leaf emergence, and using this to set rotation lengths, helps get the best from pasture.

Brendan Attrill works on the health of interpersonal relationships, biodiversity and climate responses on his award-winning Taranaki farm.

For over a decade, DairyNZ has invested science, policy and farm system expertise into Waikato Plan Change 1 – helping to create practical, fair rules for farmers.

Lye Farm, one of DairyNZ’s research farms near Hamilton, uses purpose-built facilities, specialised feeding equipment, and trained cows. These facilities enable trials of new approaches under pasture-based farming conditions typical of New Zealand.

Gareth and Hayley Lewis are among 49 farmers Dairy Holdings has helped to own a farm of their own. They share the lessons learnt along the way.

Real-farm data shows how feed choices – especially using more homegrown feed – are linked to lower emissions intensity, better nitrogen efficiency and high profit.