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.

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 Animal Evaluation has completed its annual update of Economic Values (EVs) as part of the December 2025 Animal Evaluation run.

In the December Animal Evaluation (AE) run, NZ Animal Evaluation (a DairyNZ subsidiary) will introduce three key updates that may lead to some re-ranking of bulls.

DairyNZ subsidiary New Zealand Animal Evaluation (NZAEL) will update the genetic base used to calculate Breeding Worth (BW) on 20 June 2025.

A successful farm system depends on having the right wintering system in place. It minimises animal, environmental and compliance risks while supporting your investment decisions.

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

DairyNZ is reporting a significant increase in the number of farmers improving their wintering practices, which results in a higher standard of animal care and environmental protection.

The DairyNZ team is continuing to explore the potential of digital technology to support animal wellbeing and the overall health of farm systems.

This International Day of Rural Women we profile Kirsty Verhoek who ‘walks the talk’, balancing her interests in animal welfare, agricultural science and innovative dairy farming.

Under its innovation strategy, Craigmore Sustainables is collaborating with new innovators of technology across sustainability, people, animals and business management to enhance New Zealand’s dairy sector.