Resources for Breeding Advisors
Topics
2 min read
You're at the heart of the dairy sector, connecting farmers, suppliers, and the wider industry. Use trusted, science-backed resources to support farmers in improving herd health and reproductive outcomes. Whether you're advising on genetics, herd performance or long-term breeding strategies, these resources back up your high-value advice, helping drive genetic gain and herd efficiency.
Your go-to tools and resources are here
If you are short on time, start with these quick links to the most used resources.
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Breeding decisions made easy
A practical guide to help farmers align breeding choices with their goals.
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Ranking of active sires list
Stay up to date with the top-performing sires in New Zealand.
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Animal and herd averages
Benchmark herd performance and identify areas for improvement.
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Animal database DIGAD
The independent national data base which informs BW, EV and BVs. Read more about accessing data, data standards and herd test standards.
What's new
Latest research: Dairy Beef Opportunities
New Zealand’s dairy and beef industries are coming together to work more closely through the Dairy Beef Opportunities programme to address a key area of both challenge and opportunity — the management of non-replacement calves that are not required to replenish the dairy herd.
What's timely
Achieving BCS targets at calving
Autumn is a make‑or‑break period for body condition score (BCS) at calving. BCS conversations provide a clear way to link cow condition with reproductive outcomes and production in the vat.
Cows that calve at target BCS typically deliver better milk production and better reproductive outcomes. Taking action now gives cows the best chance of reaching target BCS before the window to influence condition gain closes.
Read more on strategies to improve body condition score on farm.
Explore more tools to strengthen your advice and support farmers
Spot gaps on farm to improve 6-week in-calf rates and plan where to act this season.
Help farmers identify reproductive challenges and set goals. These resources offer practical, evidence-based support to improve conception rates, calving patterns, and overall herd fertility.
Help farmers grow high-performing heifers to set the basis for strong fertility, timely conception, and fewer replacements.
Explore resources to support heifer growth and long-term herd performance:
Boost in-calf results with BCS
Body condition scoring (BCS) isn’t just about animal health; it’s a cornerstone of reproductive performance. Use these top tools when supporting farmers to monitor and manage BCS effectively throughout the season:
Know a farmer who wants to change mating programmes?
Changing mating management on a dairy farm can offer benefits but comes with potential risks. These resources are here to help build confidence when considering and making these changes:
A closer look at wearable technology
As more and more farmers adopt wearables, new research aims to assess how they affect reproductive performance.
See on-farm success in action with these dairy calf case studies
Dairy Beef Opportunities, Canterbury, Sharemilkers Ben and Allie King
Since 2019, Ben and Allie King have been dedicated to increasing the number of calves they rear. Their aim is to enhance the value of calves born on their farm in an efficient and sustainable manner for their business.
Read more about Ben and Allie King
Dairy Beef Opportunities, Owl Farm (Waikato)
Owl Farm is a 130-hectare dairy farm between the St Peter’s School Cambridge campus and the Waikato River. All calves are valued and cared for at Owl Farm according to their principle of increased 'purpose of life' – to ensure all calves born in the Owl Farm herd have a purposeful life.
Unlock insights shaping breeding decisions with these podcasts
A curated selection you'll find both relevant and thought-provoking for your role.
Looking for something else?
Explore the links below to return to the Rural Professional Hub, contact your local area manager, explore current research, or sign up for updates on upcoming events, resources, and insights to support your work with farmers.
