With key national rules set to change, the sector readies itself for a new national direction.

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

New Zealand dairy farmers are achieving more with fewer cows, shown through record milk production per cow and continued genetic progress.

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

The key to sustaining profitability and competitiveness lies in productivity – choosing the right inputs, adopting new technologies, and adapting sustainable practices without compromising production.

We explore the science, smarts and systems that will continue to give New Zealand dairy farmers their edge over the global competition.

New Zealand’s freshwater management policies have long been focused on nitrogen and other contaminant limits, but with freshwater reform underway, there is an opportunity to shift towards more of a focus on stream health.

As decisions around freshwater rules edge closer, the message from dairy farmers is clear.

Leaders from across the livestock sector have come together with the Government to sign a new agreement on how to prepare and respond in the unlikely event of a foot and mouth disease outbreak.

During the recent industry update to the Dairy Herd Testing Standard, it was agreed that certified testers ensure at least 85% of cows currently lactating and expected to supply a milk sample have their latest calving data recorded at the test event.

One of the most important decisions will be which cows receive antibiotics, particularly given the rise of antimicrobial resistance awareness.