An endophyte is a fungus naturally found in ryegrass and tall fescue pastures, helping to protect the plants from insect damage. In New Zealand, many ryegrass plants contain this fungus, passed down through seeds.

Failures of pumps and irrigation equipment on your dairy farm can lead to wasted time, limited pasture growth, and stress. The page highlights the importance of regular checks and ongoing maintenance to prevent these issues.

Cocksfoot is a resilient pasture grass, ideal for dry conditions and resistant to many pests. Though its feed value is typically lower than ryegrass, it supports summer growth in dairy pasture mixes, especially in drought-prone areas.

Reducing the time and water used in washing dairy yards is vital to an efficient farm routine. The page outlines various methods for efficient yard cleaning, focusing on the design of the holding yard, wash down systems, and the type of surface used.

Dietary fibre is essential for a cow's healthy rumen function. This page explains that when cows eat fibre, it stimulates chewing, saliva production, and rumination.

Critical Source Areas (CSAs), such as swales and gullies, can transport large amounts of soil, phosphorus, and E. coli to waterways. Recognising CSAs and managing them with buffer zones can help minimise these losses.

White clover is crucial for New Zealand dairy pastures, offering nutritional value and fixing nitrogen to boost other grasses' growth. Yet, shade hampers its growth, and overusing N fertiliser can outcompete it.

Building a new dairy farm is a complex, time-consuming process that requires careful planning and consideration. This page guides you through the key decisions and factors involved in choosing the type and size of the dairy and yard.

Bull management involves ensuring the right number of healthy bulls for your herd, minimising stress and reducing injury risks. A correct ratio depends on your herd's size and percentage of pregnant cows.

Good platform design in dairy farming keeps both cows and people safe, while enhancing cow flow into the dairy.

Heifer rearing is essential for your dairy farm's success. The page discusses three basic methods: rearing stock on your dairy farm, contract grazing, and purchasing grown replacements.

Governance in farming involves leading the business and managing its daily operations. This page explains the role of governance in all farming businesses, regardless of size, including small family-owned farms.

Financial success in the dairy industry involves five steps. First, you need a motivating dream or purpose. This will encourage you to save money, invest wisely, and work harder.

Creating a new pasture isn't just about sowing. Good management, especially in the first year, can boost its performance and longevity. It's only successfully established once it's dense and has survived a summer.

Choosing the right supplement for your dairy farm requires careful consideration of factors such as energy content, cost, storage, wastage, and feeding logistics.

The Sustainable Dairying: Water Accord was launched in July 2013 and built on the work that began under the Clean Streams Accord.

Tauranga farmers Nick and Mary Dowson initially decided to give flexible milking a go from Christmas onwards as a strategy to cope with dry summers.

Using the LEAN principle, DairyNZ developed this training programme to help enhance dairy farm management by identifying and eliminating waste, improve safety, streamline milking times, and enhance team communication and engagement.

Taranaki has long been a centre for dairy science with research and demonstration farms in Stratford, Hawera and Waimate West.

Bay of Plenty Focus on Dairying is an initiative led by Bay of Plenty dairy farmers to explore ways for local farmers to make their farms more profitable, sustainable and satisfying.