Could reducing the number of milkings in a week help the dairy sector attract new staff and improve work-life balance?

Stepping back from the day to day running of the farm is an exciting stage in life, but one that can be complex. What are the big things to consider? What are the common pitfalls and how can you avoid them?

Are your calves getting the colostrum they need? How are you supposed to know and what can you change to make sure they do?

Staff shortages can cause big headaches for dairy farmers. In this episode, we discuss what you can do to attract and retain staff, and we look at the results of a recent dairy farm employee survey, with DairyNZ's lead advisor – people, Jane Muir.

What's the difference between contract milking and variable order sharemilking? Are they still a viable progression pathway? And how do you make it work in your first season?

If you're a rural professional discussing breeding decisions, herd management, or seasonal planning, this section of the website is for you. It will give you practical support to strengthen relationships and add value at every step.

If you're a rural professional discussing finances, infrastructure, or seasonal planning, you'll find practical support to strengthen relationships and add value every step of the way.

As a fertiliser advisor, your expertise already drives nutrient planning and paddock performance. This hub supports your broader farm systems knowledge, offering resources to help you confidently advise on feed demand, pasture, and seasonal planning.

As a human resource advisor in the dairy industry, your insights help shape resilient, profitable and sustainable farm businesses. To support your work, we offer apps and resources designed to help you analyse, plan, and support with confidence.

As a feed advisor, your insights help shape resilient, productive, and sustainable farm systems. This section of the website is for you; it will give you practical support to strengthen relationships and add value at every step.