The Dairy Industry Good Animal Database (DIGAD) holds pedigree and performance information for every recorded dairy cow in New Zealand. It is led by NZAEL, which uses the data to keep improving the sector’s efficiency and productivity.

Farmers often ask what, when, and how to feed their cows. The Feedright programme and resources were created to answer these questions and separate fact from fallacy.

Climate Smart Research (CSR) is an international research and innovation programme designed to accelerate the transition to climate-smart agriculture.

Spring mastitis management for dairy farmers: simple checks to help protect cow health, teat health and milk quality.

Recording which cows are managed together in herd management groups ensures cows are compared with cows managed under the same conditions. This gives more accurate information for breeding, culling, feeding and long-term herd improvement decisions.

Success for this Western Southland farm is driven by a simple, pasture based farm system that is implemented by excellent farm staff. Good farm and strong financial management ensures operating expenses remain below industry average. 

Moving animals on and off farm has its risks. A common way for mastitis bacteria to be introduced into a herd is in the udders of cows that are brought in. These bacteria can spread rapidly through a herd, so it is important to mitigate risk factors.

Mastitis is one of the most common and costly animal health issues on dairy farms. Understanding the basics will help you protect cow health, maintain milk quality, and do your job confidently in the milking shed.

Mastitis generally falls into two categories: environmental and contagious. Good milking routine, teat spray and hygiene reduce contagious spread. Clean, well-managed sheds, dry bedding and managing cow traffic help minimise environmental exposure.

Planning and preparing for dry-off is essential. It is important to undergo careful planning, proper execution, and good follow-up to protect cow health, improve efficiency, and ensure the herd is well prepared for the next lactation.

Plan ahead for winter and stay in control when pressure hits. Learn practical grazing tips, early warning signs to watch for, and how a clear Plan A and B can help your protect cows, paddocks and the season’s productivity.

Healthy teats are the first line of defence against mastitis. If you get teat health right, somatic cell count, milk quality, and cow health get a lot easier. This page outlines what good teat health looks like, and how to fix poor teat health.

Get the quick breakdown of dairy’s record season. Campbell Parker unpacks the Pulse Report — from higher milk production with fewer cows to booming exports — and what it all means for you.

Hear about early insights in DairyNZ’s heat stress trial at Scott Farm from experts Dr Charlotte Reed and Jac McGowan, plus current info and solutions for keepings cows comfortable and productive in hot conditions.