As farmers take their first steps into the world of artificial intelligence, they are finding that the tech won’t replace experience, but can support decision-making and accelerate tasks.

Science shows that giving calves more milk early boosts growth, resilience and first-lactation performance. Autumn calvers can act now, and updated calf-rearing resources are coming soon.

New DairyNZ research, shared at recent joint events with Federated Farmers and FMG, highlights the key factors behind successful contract milking partnerships - and why getting them right matters.

Matching the right treatment to the right cow at dry-off protects herd health and the long-term effectiveness of antibiotics.

Autumn is the key season for renewing pastures and setting up next season’s feed supply. You’ll get the best results by following these three core principles.

Milksolids production rose last season, largely due to strong milk price incentives, increased imported feed and consistent herd performance across many farms.

DairyNZ researchers have mapped regions where cows are most at risk from rising temperatures, and are developing resources to help farmers mitigate the effects of excessive heat load on their animals, which can impact feed intake and milk production.

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.

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.

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.