How do you take a break from the farm?  This summer farmers across the country, of all ages and stages, are hitting the beach to head along to Surfing for Farmers sessions. DairyNZ is proud to come on board as Surfing for Farmers “Grassroots partner” to support farmers coming together off-farm to catch up, have fun and boost their health and wellbeing.  We’re talking to Southland dairy farmers Rob Black and Katrina Thomas to share more about what Surfing for Farmers is all about.  Rob tells us why he keeps coming back for more, and Katrina a Surfing for Farmers coordinator and involved Rural Support Trust, shares how farmers can get involved up and down the country.Find out more at www.surfingforfarmers.com.

DairyNZ’s subsidiary NZAEL (New Zealand Animal Evaluation Limited) has recently made a new fertility trait update – in this episode we’ll discuss what does this change will mean and how will it benefit farmers. Our guests are Ee Cheng Ooi from Abacus Bio, vet and geneticist who worked with NZAEL to develop the new fertility estimated breeding value, NZAEL quantitative geneticist, Dr Melissa Stephen, who recently completed her PhD on early-in-life predictors of an animal’s genetic merit for fertility, and Hayden Lawrence, South Taranaki dairy farmer, who shares the impact of a more accurate Breeding Value will have on his farm business.Read more about the latest from NZAEL on our website.

With NIWA’s prediction of an El Nino weather pattern and a high likelihood of a drier summer, how are farmers preparing? In today’s episode, we’re talking to dairy farmer Trevor Hamilton, who has dairy farm operations across the North and South Islands, and Kevin McKinley, DairyNZ regional partner in the Bay of Plenty.  Trevor and Kevin will share their strategies for preparing for a dry summer including how to manage cow condition and pasture quality.More information:Summer managementSummer management plan template

Having more productive dairy workplaces can save hours, shorten the working day, and create more attractive workplaces. But what exactly is workplace productivity and how can we measure it? What practices and technologies are farmers using, and are they effective at improving productivity? DairyNZ’s Senior Scientist, Callum Eastwood and Research Engineer, Brian Dela Rue have been researching practices and technologies used to improve the productivity and efficiency of our dairy farm workplaces. In this episode they will share the findings of two recent studies on workplace productivity and farm tech adoption and give some practical advice on how to make some potential productivity gains in your workplace. More information:Workplace Productivity StudyTechnology and Workplace Practices Survey 2023Inside Dairy

What’s the best way to manage internal parasites in young dairy stock? Find out how worms limit production in calves, when to start drenching, how to choose the right drench – but importantly, why we need to focus on management factors other than drench. Our guests are Ginny Dodunski, Wormwise programme manager and vet, and Emma Poole, Wormwise facilitator, vet, farm owner and 2023 Young Farmer of the Year.   More information:Wormwise.co.nzWormwise Facebook pageHeifer healthVideo: Get the low-down from Emma on why it's oral drenches all the way for calves in their first year of life.

Many farmers are looking for ways to get better value from their pasture, get through NIWA’s predicted El Niño summer, and control on-farm costs. Could deferred grazing provide a solution for some farmers?  In this episode, you’ll get the low-down on this cheap and flexible form of pasture conservation. Our guests are DairyNZ senior scientist Dr Wendy Griffiths and Waikato farmer Ian Butler, who’s used deferred grazing on his farm. Ian is also a DairyNZ Extension Partner in the Waikato. Wendy and Ian will explain what deferred grazing is and when to use it, its pros and cons, and importantly, what the research tells us about this feed management strategy.Visit our website to learn more about deferred grazing.

Canterbury sharemilker Glenn Jones joins us to talk about the options he’s used to reduce nitrogen losses on-farm. He discusses how successful it’s been, the challenges he’s faced along the way, what he’s learned, and his advice for other farmers. Glenn was one of the partner farmers in a DairyNZ project set up to help dairy farmers in the Selwyn catchment reduce their nitrogen losses by 30%, while maintaining profitability. NotesSelwyn and Hinds - Meeting a Sustainable Future - DairyNZ 

To coincide with Mental Health Awareness Week, we’re sharing the powerful story of Emma Walton, a young Waikato contract milker. Emma not only loves dairy farming, but says it saved her life. Find out why farming has been the key to her recovery, why she’s passionate about lifting mental wellbeing in the rural sector, how she copes with stress on the farm, her ambitions, and more. NotesRural Support Trust: Help and support for rural NZ (rural-support.org.nz)0800 787 254Home - Farmstrong - Live Well Farm WellNeed to talk? Free call or text 1737 any time for support from a trained counsellor.Lifeline 0800 543 354 (0800 LIFELINE)Youthline 0800 376 633, free text 234 or email talk@youthline.co.nz or online chat.Samaritans 0800 726 666Farmer wellbeing - DairyNZHumankind: A Hopeful History: Amazon.com: BooksPsychiatry & Psychotherapy Podcast 

What do saloon doors and exosuits have to do with reducing injuries on dairy farms? They’re among a range of practical ideas DairyNZ is trialling to help farmers avoid sprains and strains, particularly around calving time. Hear about the designs and prototypes, including a new easy-entry calf trailer and a flexible breast rail, from DairyNZ senior scientist Dr Callum Eastwood and Waikato dairy farmer Marcus Graham.NotesThis project has been made possible through $900,000 of co-funding by ACC’s Workplace Injury Prevention programme, supported by a $150,000 investment by dairy farmers through the DairyNZ levy. Learn more at dairynz.co.nz/sprains-strains Other useful links: https://farmwithoutharm.org.nz/dairynz.co.nz/healthandsafetyfarmstrong.co.nz/course/preventing-accidents-and-injuries-versiontalkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz 

How do we reduce methane emissions from cattle within our pasture-based farming system? And when will farmers have solutions ready to use on-farm? In this episode, recorded at DairyNZ’s Lye Farm, you’ll hear about the options being tested by our scientists, including feeding methane inhibitors to calves from birth. DairyNZ principal scientist Dr Jane Kay and technical team leader Olivia Jordan take us on a walk around Lye Farm’s world-class research facilities, explain when you might start seeing solutions, and discuss other methane research being done across the sector.Show notesLess methane - DairyNZInside Dairy Aug-Sep 2023 - DairyNZLye Farm - DairyNZ

With farm business viability top of mind and soils still very wet around the country, what are some steps you can take to make sure you’re spending your fertiliser dollar wisely? In this episode, hear solid advice from two legends of the fert industry: Dr Ants Roberts, chief scientist at Ravensdown, and Warwick Catto, science strategy manager at Ballance Agri-Nutrients Ltd. They discuss trends in fertiliser use, whether you can afford to skip soil testing, the best time to apply nitrogen fertiliser and in what quantity, herbage tests, sulphur and lime use, placement tools, effluent spreading, specific strategies for wet soils, and much more. NotesBooklets (fertiliser.org.nz)Managing nitrogen fertiliser - DairyNZSoil Fertility for Pasture - DairyNZ

What are the main things to consider before approaching the bank for backing to go into herd-owning sharemilking? Sian Mitchell, ANZ agri manager, explains how to get yourself into as strong a position as possible to secure the bank’s support. She also covers the loan approval process, how and why the bank takes security over the cows, GST loans, loan structures, coping with profit ups and downs, and more. NotesSharemilking and contract milking arrangements - DairyNZBudgeting tools - DairyNZBuy Contracts (fedfarm.org.nz)Business by the Numbers - Dairy TrainingProgression Management - Dairy Training

Is herd-owning sharemilking in your sights? Already in a HOSM partnership? In this episode, pick up some fresh ideas for both farm owner and sharemilker on how to succeed in this popular business structure. Our guests are Waikato sharemilker Rachel Bunnik and Dairy Farms NZ CEO Craig McBeth, who discuss what they like about the agreement, how the financials work, common challenges, keeping the relationship sweet, doing your due diligence, and much more. Show notesSharemilking and contract milking arrangements - DairyNZBudgeting tools - DairyNZBuy Contracts (fedfarm.org.nz)Business by the Numbers - Dairy TrainingProgression Management - Dairy Training

Rain, rain, rain. How are other dairy farmers managing their way through this exceptionally wet winter? Hear from Hauraki Plains farm owner John Garrett, Cambridge farm owner Marc Gascoigne, and Northland herd owning sharemilker Carl MacDonald, who explain how they're trying to minimise soil damage while still adequately feeding the cows. They discuss round lengths, cow comfort, team morale, mental health, lessons from previous wet winters, and more. NotesWet weather management - DairyNZSpring Rotation Planner - DairyNZRural Support Trust: Help and support for rural NZ (rural-support.org.nz)Home - Farmstrong - Live Well Farm WellFarmer wellbeing - DairyNZ

Our guests Matte Kirk and Kelly Dickey share their thoughts on mental wellness in the rural sector. Are farmers getting better at talking about how they’re feeling? Why is getting off the farm so important? How do Matte (former dairy farmer, Pioneer area manager) and Kelly (sharemilker, Rural Support Trust facilitator) stay in top form? The pair also talk about the great work of Surfing For Farmers, which they both help to run in Raglan, on Waikato's west coast. LinksWhere to get help - DairyNZ Surfing for FarmersFarmer wellbeing - DairyNZ Rural Support Trust: Help and support for rural NZ (rural-support.org.nz) Home - Farmstrong - Live Well Farm Well

Waikato farm owners Bryce Anderton and Aleisha Broomfield share how the current period of increased farm costs and high inflation is affecting them and how they’re coping. Speaking live at Fieldays 2023, Bryce and Aleisha talk about the impacts on their businesses, actions they’ve taken to maintain profitability, the role of cost control, advice for other farmers, and their go-to tools and resources. Useful linksBudget Case Studies Budgeting when inflation is high Dairy operating profit Dairy Training Business by the Numbers course

In today’s tight labour market, we need to ensure our dairy farm assistant jobs are attractive and competitive – but how? In this episode, find out about DairyNZ’s new tools to help farm employers know if their job role 'meets the market' and what factors could be tweaked to create a bigger pool of applicants. Our guests are DairyNZ’s Geoff Taylor and Pouarua Farms CEO Jenna Smith.Useful linksKnow the Market project - DairyNZJob competitiveness calculator - DairyNZ

Our guests on this episode are Morrinsville farmer Johan van Ras, planting professional Antony Snodgrass, and DairyNZ’s Aslan Wright-Stow, Senior Manager – Environment. Hear their perspectives on how to successfully undertake a planting project on the farm, including some common mistakes to avoid, tips on prep and maintenance, what we can learn from science and research, and what benefits (some unexpected) you’re likely to see. ShownotesPlanting waterways - DairyNZDairyNZ Riparian Planner - DairyNZNative Planting Services - Koroneiki DevelopmentsWaikato environment award winners, Johan and Kylie van Ras, hope to spur others into environmental action (linkedin.com)

Overwhelmed by workload pressure, self-doubt and a fear of what others expected of him, fifth generation farmer Sam Spencer-Bower stopped being able to function. It took six months before his wife – and Sir John Kirwan – helped convince him to get help. In this episode, Sam kindly joins us to share his mental health journey: the underlying causes, learning to talk about it, the road to recovery, and the skills he’s developed to cope with the stresses of the job, so he can keep on enjoying dairy farming.  NotesWhere to get help - DairyNZFarmer wellbeing - DairyNZInside Dairy - DairyNZ (see page 13 of June/July 2023 edition)Rural Support Trust: Help and support for rural NZ (rural-support.org.nz)Home - Farmstrong - Live Well Farm Well

Rotorua farm owner Steve Holdem joins us to share his experience with Ecotain plantain: what’s worked well, what he and wife Paula have learned about maintaining it, and how it’s saving them from reducing their stocking numbers. Also on the podcast is DairyNZ’s Kate Fransen, who’ll give a clear overview of what a decade’s research has taught us about plantain. New results show even better than expected leaching reductions can be achieved. NotesPlantain - DairyNZDairyNZ Podcast: 'Plantain for production and environmental wins | Ep. 20'Inside Dairy: pages 25-29 of June/July 2023 edition (goes live June 1)

It’s difficult to see the benefit of genetic gain in a herd from one season to the next. When you see an improvement in farm performance, how do you know that's a result of better genetics? How can you be confident that breeding for genetic gain actually works?Hear DairyNZ's Bruce Thorrold discuss learnings from the Holstein-Friesian Strain Trial. He also talks through the value of genomics and high-quality data, strengthening the fertility Breeding Worth, keeping up with our overseas competitors, and more. NotesAnimal Evaluation - DairyNZA Comparison of Three Strains of Holstein-Friesian Cows Grazed on Pasture: Growth, Development, and Puberty - ScienceDirect

For many of the biggest challenges facing Kiwi dairy farmers, the answers lie in solid, farm-tested research. So, what are the big focus areas for DairyNZ’s science team right now? What work is underway to give farmers the tools they need? And how do our scientists ensure new solutions are actually going to work well on-farm? DairyNZ’s Bruce Thorrold and Bridget Maclean join us to answer those questions, as well as explaining who’s in the science team at DairyNZ, their proudest research achievements, and what research projects they’re most excited about.NotesFarmers’ Forum 2023 - DairyNZResearch - DairyNZChapters1.47 – Who are Bridget and Bruce?4.21 – Hot topics DairyNZ researchers are addressing 9.03 – Who are the scientists working on behalf of dairy farmers? 12.28 – Involving farmers; developing solutions that actually work14.57 – Bruce’s proudest achievements18.37 – Bridget’s highlights19.50 – Changing the dairy job; nailing methane emissions21.36 – Grill our scientists at Farmers’ Forum 

What’s it like coming into the dairy sector with no experience? How can farm employers make it a softer landing for newbies and increase our chances of them succeeding and remaining in farming? What can we learn from seeing dairy farming through the eyes of a new employee? Step on up John Gibson, who’s in his second season and has just taken on a 2IC role in Te Pahu, west of Hamilton. Hear John's story of leaving behind Government and retail work in Wellington for a new career in dairy farming. You’ll hear the good, the bad and the funny, as well as why he decided to make the lifestyle change. He shares his views on how we can make it a smoother transition for other newcomers. NotesRecruitment - DairyNZGoDairy - DairyNZChapters1.33 – John’s non-farming background2.33 – Persuaded to go dairy farming3.55 – First impressions, early mistakes, ‘farm common sense’7.37 – Discovering a love for farming9.03 – Biggest challenges: physical demands, new lifestyle, internet12.04 – Why he stayed14.59 – Thoughts on rural internet connectivity16.53 – Another ‘newbie’ moment18.18 – Goals, upskilling, working towards herd ownership20.17 – Advice for farm employers23.19 – Advice for people starting out in dairy farming 

What might NZ dairy farming look like in 2030? What strategies and technologies could Kiwi farmers adopt to get ahead of our global competitors, like US mega-dairies? DairyNZ researchers are on the case, seeking answers to those questions and more through an exciting project called Frontier Farms. It’s all about identifying the key challenges our farm systems need to address – and coming up with solutions – to remain globally competitive. Our guests in this episode are DairyNZ senior scientist Dr Paul Edwards, Perrin Ag managing director Lee Matheson and Waikato dairy farmer Colin Hickey.NotesFrontier Farms - DairyNZUnited States mega-dairies - DairyNZInside Dairy April May edition - Inside Dairy - DairyNZAlternative milks podcast (Ep 43) DairyNZ Podcast - DairyNZChapters01:25 – What Frontier Farms aims to achieve for farmers02:54 – Intro to Colin 03:30 – How and why Colin’s involved in the project04:30 – Lee’s role in Frontier Farms05:15 – What is a ‘mega-dairy’?6:05 – What advantages could US mega-dairies have over Kiwi farmers?07:55 – How NZ dairy farms can better compete with mega-dairies10:15 – Colin’s thoughts on US mega-dairies11:10 – Flattening the labour demand: extended lactation, batch robotic milking14:01 – Next competitors to be assessed; capitalising on our strengths15:05 – How farmers can keep up with the research16.26 – What Colin’s kids think the future of farming looks like18:44 – NZ dairy needs to keep pushing the boundaries20.07 – Learning from what doesn’t work, as well as what does  

Covid-19, the Ukraine War and extreme weather events have created ongoing disruption globally and locally, with knock-on effects for New Zealand’s dairy sector. So, what can we expect in the coming seasons with farm costs, interest rates, labour supply and demand for dairy? What are the challenges and opportunities for farmers to be thinking about? And what are some emerging trends that could affect dairy farming? Our guests in this episode are DairyNZ head of economics Mark Storey and foresight practitioner Melissa Clark-Reynolds, who bring some great insights and food for thought. Melissa is one of the speakers at DairyNZ’s 2023 Farmers’ Forum events, which will have a strong focus on science and research. Visit Farmers’ Forum 2023 - DairyNZ for details.   NotesFarmers’ Forum 2023 - DairyNZMelissa Clark-Reynolds – Signals from the Future (BOMA webinar, 14.2.23) Melissa Clark-Reynolds – learning from NZ Primary Sector Unicorns (BOMA conference, 2020) Mark Storey – Managing cost pressures in an uncertain environment (Fieldays interview) Managing a profit squeeze (Talking Dairy podcast Eps. 41 and 42) DairyNZ cyclone response: advice, tools and resources DairyNZ decision tree for flood-affected farms Chapters01:40 – Melissa's role as a foresight practitioner and her skill in recognising patterns04:00 – Spotting trends before they emerge08:09 – ‘Pandemic century’, our post-Covid situation, Russo-Ukraine War’s impact, demand for protein14:05 – How much dairy farmers should be thinking about these global changes, and what can they do on-farm16:02 – Cost pressures, rising interest rates, forecast farm working expenses 17:18 – Fertiliser prices being pushed up by Russo-Ukraine War17:55 – A mixed picture: rising interest rates, but lower dairy debt levels19:55 – Post-Covid-19 challenges, recovery and reasons for optimism25:40 – A long way to go until we’re out of ‘Post-Covid recovery’ phase28:20 – Cyclone Gabrielle’s impact on NZ’s total dairy production, infrastructure, wellbeing29:54 – Building our resilience to extreme weather events35:37 – Reasons for farmers to be excited; good news stories; challenges of other products; opportunities to improve total return to farm (not just milk)

It’s been an incredibly tough time for farmers affected by Cyclone Gabrielle. For many, the recovery will be long and challenging.  We thought it would be helpful to hear from one farmer who’s been through something similar and can talk about what the recovery looked like. Dean Bailey was sharemilking in Manawatu when, in February 2004, a devastating flooding event left his farm submerged beneath two metres of water. It was six months before they were milking cows again on the farm. Dean will talk about how the recovery unfolded, the importance of good communication, rallying together as a community, and taking it one day at a time.  Michelle Greaves, a Regional Partner in DairyNZ’s Lower North Island Team, also joins us to talk about DairyNZ’s role in the response and recovery, and provide advice on how farmers can prepare for the seasons ahead.NotesCyclone response - DairyNZDecision tree for flood damaged farms: https://www.dairynz.co.nz/media/5787035/flood-damaged-farm-decision-tree.pdf Government grants and funds: https://www.mpi.govt.nz/dmsdocument/55630-Cyclone-Gabrielle-farmer-and-grower-recovery-grants Completing a feed budget: https://www.dairynz.co.nz/feed/improving-pasture-performance/assessing-farm-performance/feed-budgets/Chapters1:18 - Intro to Dean1:41 - How Dean’s been affected by Cyclone Gabrielle3:30 - Dean's been speaking with Hawke’s Bay farmers hit by the cyclone3:48 - ‘Taken out of farming’ in the Manawatu floods of 2004, and how they recovered: what worked well, keeping morale up9:14 - Dean discusses support organisations, talking to mates, getting through it as a community, and keeping the cows in lactation12:05 - Deciding what to prioritise in each day of the recovery15:30 - Dean’s advice for Cyclone Gabrielle-affected farmers17:45 - Ways to make a farm and business resilient to the effects of extreme weather events, e.g. positioning fencing to run with the water20:00 - Michelle discusses key support avenues and tools to help farmers recovering from an adverse event22:15 - What Michelle’s hearing from farmers in affected regions: power, fuel and water supply, roading access, cows dried off, stock movement, infrastructure 25:25 - Dealing with the silt26:33 - What’s DairyNZ’s role in the response and recovery?29:30 - Resilience of dairy farmers, and advice for farmers on preparing for future extreme weather events (contingency plans, generators, means of communication, fuel storage) 

There’s a lot of conversation circling about milk alternatives and their potential impact on global dairy consumption and NZ dairy farming. But what do we mean by ‘milk alternatives’? What are the differences between plant alternatives and precision fermentation? Also, where are milk alternatives at and what are the facts – and the myths – about new and existing products? Here to shed some light on the matter is Warren McNabb, Professor of Nutritional Sciences at the Riddet Institute, Massey University. Warren will discuss how milk alternatives have developed to date and what the future is looking like.NotesFrontier Farms - DairyNZInside Dairy Feb-March 2023 - DairyNZChapters01:31 – Who is Warren?03:46 – Warren explains the different milk alternatives and where they’re at on their journey11:40 – Nutritional differences between milk alternatives and traditional dairy, and what that means for global nutritional requirements14:21 – What is a plant-based and animal-optimised food system?17:57 – How does traditional dairy sustainability compare with milk alternatives?20:45 – Precision fermentation’s future24:00 – Key messages for NZ farmers, traditional dairy’s role in future food systems, and what alternative milks mean for dairy farmers26:50 – Warren’s brunch chat with friends 

How are Kiwi dairy farmers managing their way through the current economic climate to maintain their profitability? In Part 2 of this series, you’ll hear from Waikato owner operator John Bluett, and Canterbury herd-owning lower-order sharemilker Kylie Marriott. John and Kylie share their approach to coping with cost increases, how they calculate profit from various inputs, how they budget when things are changing so quickly, and what they’ve learned from previous tough times. NotesDairyNZ budgeting templates Mark and Measure course Budget Case Studies Budgeting when inflation is high Dairy operating profit Dairy Training's Business by the Numbers course Chapters1:50 – Who are John and Kylie? 3:40 – Kylie’s journey from contract milking to lower-order sharemilking 5:05 – John and Kylie explain their farm production systems8:30 – How they’re dealing with rising farm costs12:40 – Kylie’s farm business principles 14:40 – Kylie’s debt aversion15:40 – John’s farm business principles20:05 – Calculating profit made on various inputs 22:11 – John’s budgeting approach 25:10 – Kylie’s budgeting approach 26:33 – Lessons learnt from previous downturns 

How are farmers managing their way through the current economic climate to maintain profitability? Over the next two episodes, you’ll hear from a group of farmers who have kindly agreed to talk about their approach. We’ll ask them how they’re coping, how they calculate their profit from various inputs, like supplements, and how they go about budgeting when things are changing so quickly. In this first episode, we’re joined by farmers Dan King and Marc Jones. Dan and his wife Kate are owner/operators on the West Coast; and Marc and wife Nia are 50/50 sharemilking 700 cows at Mamaku, Bay of Plenty, and contract milking 500 cows in Tirau, Waikato.NotesBudget Case StudiesBudgeting when inflation is highDairy operating profitDairy Training Business by the Numbers courseChapters0:00 – Intro4:15 – Dan’s and Marc’s farm production systems7:46 – Approach to rising farm costs 11:33 – Their farm business principles15:00 – How they calculate profit on various inputs16:09 – Budgeting process for next season19:58 – Previous experiences and lessons learnt

In this episode we wrap up our three-part series on contract milking. You’ll find out what a farm owner needs to know when it comes to employing a contract milker. How do you make your expectations clear, how do settle your new contract milker in well, and how do you support them to keep growing in their skillset? Bringing the answers are farm owner and ag consultant Brendan Attrill, and Waikato contract milker Rachael Foy. NotesContract milking 101 | Ep. 37Contract milking part 2: investigating a job offer | Ep. 39Dairy Training Contract Milking courseChapters1:25 – As farm owner, orientating a new contract milker onto the farm4:55 – The orientation experience from the contract milkers’ perspective7:38 – Making expectations clear to the contract milker 10:45 – The importance of having a good farm policy 13:08 – Getting regular communication working practically14:52 – Meetings between the farm owner and contract milker16:05 – How to deal with issues or differences in operating20:08 – Identifying learning opportunities for contract milkers21:46 - Final thoughts

How do you figure out if a contract milking position is the right one for you? What things should you be asking the farm owner, what do you look for on the farm, and what are some common mistakes to avoid? In this episode, the second of our three-part series on contract milking, you’ll get the low-down on investigating a job offer from DairyNZ business specialist Paul Bird and ANZ agri manager Sian Mitchell.Also, check out the excellent new contract milking short course launched recently by Dairy Training Ltd, DairyNZ and Federated Farmers. A successful pilot has finished, and the next courses are now confirmed.Contract Milker Premium CalculatorChapters01:02 – Who are Sian and Paul?02:40 – Young people being unprepared for contract milking03:59 – Key principles a contract milker should be thinking about06:03 – The contract milker premium07:13 – Questions to ask in a contract milking interview10:26 – What to look for when viewing a farm 12:01 – Key things to look for in a contract milking agreement14:43 – Why it’s so important to use professional advisors16:40 – Why are official agreements important? 18:06 – Can a contract milker borrow money to buy machinery/equipment? 20:10 – Final thoughts

In this live podcast recorded at Fieldays 2022, we’re joined by Zoe Bryson, who came third in the NZ Dairy Trainee of the Year Award earlier this year, after winning this category at the Central Plateau regional Awards. Find out how Zoe’s OE from Scotland to NZ has turned into a thriving dairy career, what she loves about farming down here in the Southern Hemisphere, what she’s gained from the Dairy Industry Awards, and her aspirations.NotesNew Zealand Dairy Industry Awards Zoe Bryson NZDIA Regional DTOTY Finalist Video A world of opportunity for young Scot on OE

In this live podcast recorded at Fieldays 2022, our guest is Northland third-generation dairy farmer Andrew Booth, who’s gone from climate change sceptic to Climate Change Ambassador. How did Andrew end up in the Ambassador role and what does it look like? What changes are he and his family making on their farm to reduce emissions? And what kinds of challenges are they facing up there in the North? Andrew answers those questions and more.   Notes DairyNZ Climate Change AmbassadorsAndrew Booth named North climate ambassador

In this live podcast recorded at Fieldays 2022, Bay of Plenty farm manager Dayna Rowe shares her thoughts on why we need to shape up our farm workplaces to stay competitive with other sectors. Dayna, who originally planned to be an actor, is on a mission to make dairy farming the best place to work – and it starts with her own workplace. Find out how she ended up in dairy farming, how she’s making her farm a great workplace, what she does to get off-farm, and more.  Notes The Great Futures in Dairying PlanInside Dairy October-November 2022

In this live podcast recorded at Fieldays 2022, we catch up with Waikato farm manager Christopher Vila, who won last year’s NZ Dairy Manager of the Year Award. Chris shares his journey of moving to NZ from the Philippines and beginning a new career as a dairy farmer. He also tells us about his experience taking part in the NZDIA programme, his thoughts on career-changing, his views on the Kiwi dairy sector, and what he does to stay well.   NotesNew Zealand Dairy Industry AwardsFrom farm assistant to winning the dairy industry's top title for 2021Dairy farmer newcomer wins New Zealand manager of the year

A lower stocking rate, less nitrogen fertiliser and less imported feed – those are the characteristics of a ‘future farm’ being tested down at Dairy Trust Taranaki. Researchers are into their third season comparing a successful current farm system with a farm system that’s designed to meet the regulations and emissions pricing coming at dairy farmers. So, have they been able to make the future farm system work at a similar profitability to the current farm? And what’s happened with greenhouse gas emissions and nitrate leaching reductions? To talk us through this exciting research are Jason Rolfe, general manager at Dairy Trust Taranaki, and DairyNZ farm systems specialist Chris Glassey.Chapters01:11 – The purpose of Dairy Trust Taranaki (DTT)04:15 – DairyNZ’s relationship with DTT05:15 – The DTT trial to reduce emissions while increase profit06:22 – What does the research look like? 08:45 – The partner farm network10:04 – Challenges along the way 11:10 – What have we learnt from the trial so far?16:52 – Nitrate leaching across the farms20:03 – The biggest surprises from the trial 20:58 – Weather effects on the trial 25:05 – How to follow what DTT is doing

How do you prepare to go from being a farm worker to a contract milker? What are some things to be aware of, what are the foundations for success, and how do you avoid the common mistakes? This episode is the first of a three-part series on contract milking, which we’ll be rolling out over the next few months. Joining us for the first episode to offer some top-notch practical advice are farm owner and ag consultant Brendan Attrill and Waikato contract milker Rachael Foy.  NotesSharemilking and contract milking arrangementsChapters00:38 – About our guests01:36 – What is contract milking?02:50 – Who is contract milking for? 04:41 – The attraction of contract milking05:17 – Skills required08:11 – Cashflow and financials14:24 – Surrounding yourself with positive people19:14 – Tax requirements 22:22 – Taking time off23:34 – Relationship with your farm owner27:02 – What to do before you take on a contract29:43 – Final thoughts

We all know that attracting and retaining great staff is an ongoing challenge for the dairy sector. A group of Canterbury dairy farmers have put their heads together and come up with one solution to the problem – they’ve set up a training programme to attract young university graduates into dairying, fast-track them in their careers, and give them skills and support to succeed. Each graduate is matched with a reputable farmer, paid a competitive salary, and paid to attend 25 modules covering everything from pasture management skills to banking basics.  This year’s pilot programme has gone brilliantly, and to tell us all about in this episode is Campbell Tait, one of the farmers who’s helped set up this programme, and Peter O’Connor, one of the graduates taking part.Chapters:00:57 – About our guests03:30 – About the graduate training programme09:23 – Peter’s experience in the programme13:06 – Modules – frequency, topics, creation16:58 – Employment agreements, pay and accommodation18:27 – DairyNZ’s support 19:26 – What’s next and who’s interested20:51 – Programme benefits and how to sign up

The Government has released its agriculture emissions pricing proposal. While the Government has accepted the sector’s recommendation for a farm-level split-gas approach, that’s where the similarities end. So, what does the Government’s proposal mean for dairy farmers? How does it differ to what the sector, through He Waka Eke Noa, recommended? And will the Government’s plan lead to reductions in methane, and without significantly affecting farmers’ businesses and the New Zealand economy? In this episode we're joined by DairyNZ strategy and investment leader Bruce Thorrold, who’ll explain the Government’s proposal, how it stacks up, and what it really means for dairy farmers.Visit our website to read more and register for our online and in-person farmer feedback events.Chapters:0:41 – Is DairyNZ happy with where things have landed?1:16 – What are the changes to what the sector proposed?3:22 – Biggest areas of concern?4:03 – What is the Government’s proposal?4:58 – Any positive in the Government’s proposal?6:14 – Pros and cons of the two Government options for nitrogen pricing7:33 – Pricing incentives7:53 – Sequestration recommendations11:16 – Concerns about processer-level levy backstop option12:47 – Reduction in milk solids production14:14 – Any chance agriculture could still end up in the NZ ETS?14:32 – What happens if politicians and farmers can’t find a compromise?15:40 – Industry response and consultation period16:02 – Details of the final decision from Government

As a dairy farmer, how do you go about choosing an accountant who truly understands your specific needs and challenges? How can you take full advantage of their knowledge and expertise? And what are some common mistakes rural accountants see farmers making, and on the flipside, things farmers are often good at in this area? Answering those questions and more in this episode is Nigel McWilliam, chartered accountant and director at MBS Advisors in Morrinsville, Waikato. Nigel is a dairying specialist accountant and is also a director shareholder of a 1200-cow farm in North Otago. Notes:Advice and support for your farm businessChapters:0:50 – Who is Nigel? 2:08 – How to choose the right accountant3:26 – What should a good accountant be able to do for you? 4:08 - Difference between tax and management accounts5:06 - How to gauge if an accountant truly understands farming 6:06 – ‘Interviewing’ an accountant 8:38 - Getting the most from your accountant on an ongoing basis9:47 – Building a good working relationship 10:50 - Does hourly rate or a set annual fee matter? 11:38 – Benchmarking info from your accountant12:40 – How accounts can tell a story14:32 – What to do if your relationship with your accountant isn’t working15:42 - Common mistakes farmers make with their finances 16:37 - Things farmers are often good at in this area

Taranaki dairy farmer Kane Brisco nearly walked away from farming, worn down by the constant physical and mental strains of the job. But at his lowest, he started figuring out practical ways to cope with stress and recharge his passion for life on the land. In this episode, Kane shares the tools he’s developed – ranging from breathwork to boxing – to operate at his best.NotesFarm Fit NZDairyNZ wellbeing webpagesChapters:1:00 - Kane's background and how he ended up in dairy farming 4:04 - Keeping in top shape and helping other farmers do the same5:54 - Getting through some challenging years6:42 - Journey to getting fit again9:15 - Mental health challenges within the dairy sector13:14 - New book ‘Tools for the top paddock’16:02 - Kane’s tools for dealing with the strains of farming 21:10 - Balancing family and farming 23:52 – What happens at FarmFit training sessions?27:08 – Kane’s cold water trough therapy27:56 - Staying connected with the right people, right places29:22 - Tricky conversations – talking with a someone who’s struggling31:27 - Advice for those going through hard times right now32:53 – How to contact Kane, join FarmFit, and where to find his book

With entries for the 2023 New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards about to open, we catch up with one of this year’s winners, north Waikato farmer Jimmy Cleaver. He took away the regional trophy for Auckland/Hauraki Farm Manager of the Year, as well as a stack of regional and national merit awards, including the DairyNZ People & Leadership Award. So, what makes the 23-year-old such a standout so early in his career? Why is managing people – and giving others a chance to get ahead in dairy farming – so high on his list of life goals? And what are his ambitions personally and for the sector? Find out in this episode.Notes:Jimmy Cleaver’s 2022 NZDIA awards include the Auckland/Hauraki Farm Manager of the Year and these merit awards:Regional- DeLaval Livestock Management Award- Fonterra Dairy Management Award- Franklin Vets Pasture & Feed Management Award- BlackmanSpargo Rural Law Ltd People & Leadership AwardNational- LIC Interview Award- DairyNZ - People & Leadership AwardFind out more about the New Zealand Dairy Industry AwardsDairyNZ’s people resourcesChapters:1:29 - Growing up on a drystock farm and switching focus to dairying2:24 – Studying before stepping onto the farm3:27 – Jimmy’s first couple of years in dairying5:39 – Jimmy’s current role and what he finds most satisfying about it7:11 – The experience of entering the NZ Dairy Industry Awards7:58 – Learning from the awards process to be a better farmer8:49 – Managing people on farm10:18 - Benefits of good leadership and people management10:49 - Getting yourself – and your team – through tough times13:25 – Achieving farm production and empty rate records15:24 – Making improvements across the dairy sector17:19 – Jimmy’s goals for the future19:35 - Advice to anyone weighing up a career in dairying

Fodder beet offers many benefits as an alternative crop to brassicas, but it also presents risks and challenges. So, what can we learn from recent research about how to deal with those risks and challenges? How have farmers adapted their feeding practices over time? And do we have all the answers or is there more research required? In this episode DairyNZ senior scientist Dawn Dalley summarises recent research findings, and North Canterbury dairy farmer and veterinarian Trish McIntosh joins us to share her experiences of using fodder beet.Chapters:1:07 - Dawn give an overview on her role at DairyNZ with fodder beet research2:38 - An intro from Trish and how she got involved with this project4:15 - Fodder beet learnings from the Forages for reduced nitrate leaching project7:42 - Trish talks about how feeding practices have changed on her farm10:53 - Research to find answers to some of the challenges farmers have experienced15:54 - Feeding changes Trish has observed with clients over the last 10-12 years17:50 - Cumulative effects of feeding fodder beet on our replacement dairy stock.20:58 - The benefits of being involved with the Sustainable Farming Fund (SFF) project22:00 - Do we have all the answers or is there still more research required?25:06 - Fodder beets role in dairy systems into the future29:41 - Does fodder beet pose additional environmental risks when being grazed during winter?31:46 - Practical take home messages from Dawn and Trish

Recorded on 15 June 2022. We have some real challenges ahead of us as a country over the coming decades when it comes to improving water quality, increasing biodiversity, and reducing emissions. We all want to see improved environmental outcomes, we all have a role to play, and we can’t do it alone. Working together constructively will be the key to our success, but to do this we need to build strong relationships that are based on trust, integrity, and mutual understanding. Hear more about this as we talk with Dr David Burger, GM Sustainable Dairy, DairyNZ, Fish & Game Chair Ray Grubb, and a panel of (non-government organisations) NGOs and dairy sector representatives sharing their perspectives.For more from the Farmers' Forum Series, visit our website.Chapters:2.34 - Dr David Burger – GM Sustainable Dairy, DairyNZ10.26 - Ray Grubb – Chair, Fish & Game NZ23:38 - Questions for David and Ray27.06 - Panel: Nicola Toki (Chief Executive, Forest & Bird), Melissa Slattery (Chair, Dairy Environment Leaders), Richard McIntyre (Dairy Farmer & Deputy Chair, Fish & Game)

Three years ago, Quinn Morgan was a self-described city slicker, working as a personal trainer in Perth and spending hours sitting in traffic. But then, after a wedding in NZ, Covid’s arrival, and some encouragement from farming family members, Quinn ended up reluctantly taking a job in dairy farming back in NZ. Fast forward to 2022, and he’s now leading a team of eight on a Pamu dairy farm in the Taupō area, raising his young family with a rural lifestyle and progressing quickly with his new career. In this episode, Quinn shares his story about how he ended up in dairying, and the challenging but rewarding experiences he’s faced since making the move. He also talks about what he’s doing to encourage others, particularly young Māori, into the dairy sector – including his involvement in DairyNZ's recently launched Great Futures in Dairying Plan. Quinn reckons we need to be looking in new places for our future staff. He wants others from a similar background to him – urban and/or non-farming – to discover what he has about the dairy sector: the career progression opportunities, the income stability, the supportive culture, and the chance to be a steward of the land.Chapters:1:12 – An unexpected career move 3:25 – Quinn’s first farming opportunity4:51 - What Quinn loves about dairy farming6:55 - Winning the Ahuwhenua Young Māori Farmer of the Year in 20217:45 - Are Māori values being reflected in the dairy sector?9:57 – Quinn’s involvement in DairyNZ's Great Futures in Dairying plan12:15 - Looking in new places for our staff13:51 - Attracting young Māori to farming15:30 - Future goals, and advice for other new entrants17:43 - Mentoring younger farmers21:39 - Recruiting and retaining staff24:39 - Reflecting on his first few years in the dairy sector 25:33 – Getting more rangatahi to enter awards

Recorded on 20 April 2022. With over 12,000 businesses across New Zealand employing over 30,000 workers on farms, our success in attracting, retaining and growing our people will determine whether the dairy sector thrives or survives. We know dairy offers a rewarding career and lifestyle, so how do we attract the right people in a tight labour market? How do we make dairy appealing for someone considering their career options? And how do we look after skilled and capable workers, so they’ll stay with us? Hear from experts and farmers about their experiences and insights.For more from the Farmers' Forum Series, visit our website.Chapters:1.56 - Tim Mackle, DairyNZ chief executive14.35 - Lee Astridge, HR/Recruitment specialist36.47 - Dairy farmer panel – Jordyn Crouch, John Totty and Jo Sheridan

Foot-and-mouth disease has reached the tourist hot spot of Bali, and the risk of it entering NZ on the footprint of an unwary traveller or by other means, is now a little too close for comfort. So, what are the risks to farmers and primary industry as a whole? And more importantly, who is responsible and what do we need to do to be prepared? We chat to Liz Shackleton, Biosecurity Manager for DairyNZ, who talks about the level of risk, who is involved, and shares some tips for farmers on what to look for and what to do.Notes:DairyNZ foot-and-mouth disease webpageChapters:1.00 – Intro from Liz and what led to her role in biosecurity at DairyNZ2.25 – Where in the world is FMD now and how much of a threat is it to our primary industries?5.28 – What steps are being taken to contain it?6.19 – Addressing the concern of FMD arriving with imported stock feed or imported goods8.23 – What can be done now and who is responsible?11.18 – The importance of a tracing system12.37 – How do we recognise an outbreak it before it spreads and what actions can we take?13.32 – How does FMD get onto farm and what would you see if it does?15.37 – What would the first days of an FMD outbreak look like?17.19 – FMD has been in some other counties for a while, so how would an outbreak in NZ be different?18.56 – How can farmers keep updated?

Recorded on 9 March 2022. Kiwi dairy farmers are increasingly under pressure with ever-changing regulations, acute workforce shortages, and all the complexities that come with a changing world. Sometimes it can be hard to navigate while still making time for family, friends, and the stuff that matters most. What are these challenges? How do we manage the juggle and still feel ok? What is being done for us as farmers … and who is speaking up for us? How do I notice I’m not handling so well? Who can I talk to?For more from the Farmers' Forum Series, visit our website.Chapters:2.18 - Overview from Jim van der Poel, DairyNZ Chair7.22 - Former farmer and rural mental health advocate Doug Avery34.32 - Dairy farmer panel – Wayne Langford, Loshni Manikam and Neil Bateup

Wintering on crop isn’t just a Southland issue. New National Environment Standards for intensive winter grazing will come into effect in November 2022. Farmers all over New Zealand are having to review their wintering crop practices now and put some thought into how they’re going to winter into the future. In this episode, we chat with Central Hawke’s Bay sheep farmer Ben Tosswill and Southland dairy farmer Ewen Mathieson about winter grazing practices now and what’s next.Chapters:0.51 – Ben: banking back to farming2.32 – Ewen: third generation farmer3.20 – Changing consumer/market expectations 4.14 – What’s different now compared to five years ago?5.13 – Ewen’s move away from cropping7.18 – Meeting new regulations7.59 – Flexibility to cope with curve balls9.40 – Wintering as a North Island sheep farmer10.20 – Sheep farmers lifting their game11.34 – What Ben’s changed on his farm13.10 – Reducing risk to animals and environment15.10 – Cow lying time16.39 – Lowering stress on sheep and staff17.39 – Team culture and wellbeing 20.34 – Benefits of a written wintering plan21.54 – Team buy-in on the plan23.55 – Preventing small issues from becoming big ones26.13 – Protecting waterways: silt fences (Ewen), temporary hot wires (Ben)28.52 – Ewen: keeping the power on 29.49 – Ben: sharing the wintering plan30.17 – Final thoughts: one thing farmers can do nowVisit our website for more on wintering

It’s no secret that soil carbon levels on New Zealand farms are among the highest in the world. So, why aren’t dairy farmers being rewarded for it? Also, is it worth trying to increase your soil carbon stocks, if so, how, and what’s the best way to measure it on your farm? To answer those questions on this episode is Dr Jacqueline Rowarth, Adjunct Professor at Lincoln University, and a farmer-elected director of DairyNZ and Ravensdown. Jacqueline’s been deep into this topic for many years and she’s passionate about helping farmers get their heads around it.Chapters:0.48 - What is soil carbon and why is it important?2.20 - How do soil carbon levels in NZ compare to other countries?6.01 - Carbon captured in pasture - how does that process work?8.25 - How are farmers in other countries being rewarded for soil carbon?13.05 - Why aren’t NZ dairy farmers getting the same rewards?14.52 - Management practices to maintain, or even increase, soil carbon stocks18.43 - The effect the age and stage of soil has on soil carbon21.09 - Soil carbon varying across a farm and even within a paddock24.11 - How to measure carbon in your soil, and the change in those levels27.19 - Details of the new study to monitor and measure carbon in soil at a national level28.52 - What does this all mean for farmers, and what should they be doing?

Stress, depression, anxiety, fatigue and other wellbeing issues are a growing concern in the rural sector. Often, the conversations we have about it are focused on men. But what about rural women? They make up half of our sector, so why aren’t we talking much about their wellbeing too? Is it because we think they’re generally doing pretty well in this area? Dairy farmer and leadership coach Loshni Manikam says that’s not the case – many rural women are indeed struggling. So, what kinds of challenges are women facing, why don’t we hear much about it, and how does it affect us all?Notes:Samaritans: 0800 726 666Lifeline: 0800 543 354Depression helpline: 0800 111 757Rural Support Trust: 0800 787 254FarmstrongChapters:1:27 - Why should we all care how rural women are doing?6:43 – Who is Loshni?10:24 – Why are many rural women are struggling?13:36 – Why we don’t hear more about it? 17:02 – What are rural women struggling with?21:20 – Finding your ‘identity’ 23:27 – The ‘ripple effect’ of when rural women are not feeling well25:03 – Moving from struggling to thriving29:17 – Prioritising yourself39:10 – More info or get in touch with Loshni40:38 – Support service contact details

Does fodder beet have a positive future as a feed for cows in New Zealand? What are some key things to consider when feeding beet through winter? And how do you put systems in place to maximise cow performance and animal health, while also minimising fodder beet’s risks? Here to answer those questions, and more, are DairyNZ scientist Dr Roshean Woods and veterinarian Dr Charlotte Westwood. Roshean and Charlotte have been involved in a three-year research project on fodder beet and they share the results with us.Notes:Feed Checker calculatorDownload the Feed Checker calculatorPublished article: ‘A survey of fodder beet use and feeding practices on dairy farms in Canterbury, Otago and Southland’DairyNZ fodder beet webpagesChapters:2:50 - Fodder beet background and current use3:55 - Motivations for the latest fodder beet project and research5:08 - Value of fodder beet to farm businesses7:00 - Results of fodder beet farmer survey8:16 - Key concerns to consider with fodder beet10:37 - Measuring fodder beet for feed management11:55 - Nutritional differences between fodder beet leaf and bulb12:54 - Benefits and guidelines for testing your fodder beet crops15:27 - Findings from fodder beet samples around the country16:47 - Using the Feed Checker calculator18:10 - Feed demands of pregnant dairy cows18:56 - What happens to fodder beet crops over winter?21:24 - Practical take home points from the latest fodder beet project24:08 - Where to go for further fodder beet information

Methane is a big topic and it’s a pressing concern for our sector. We need to reduce our emissions, while improving profitability – but how? In this episode we dig into the research DairyNZ’s doing in this area. Senior research scientist Dr Jane Kay, who leads the Less-Methane Team, joins us to explain what tools offer the most promise and when those tools might be available to adopt on farms.Notes: Keep up to date on this workContact Jane Kay at jane.kay@dairynz.co.nzChapters:1:10 - Jane’s role and areas of expertise2:00 - Overview of DairyNZ’s Less-Methane Team 3:47 - Why are we talking about methane?5:25 - What we’re trying to achieve6:04 - Three main areas of research8:30 - Deciding what to invest in10:40 - What the research looks like12:26 - Challenges of our pasture-based system14:53 - Early-in-life intervention16:23 - Automatic in-paddock feeder17:29 - Slow-release capsules18:40 - Feeds that produces less methane20:05 - Solutions for as many farms as possible21:47 - When will farmers see options? 23:17 - Feeling optimistic24:11 - What holds the most promise?24:50 - How to find out more

How do we find skilled, capable and enthusiastic farm staff when they just don’t seem to be available? In this episode, Lee Astridge, a leading agriculture recruitment and HR specialist, shares actionable tips to help you navigate the recruiting process and make your farming business an attractive option in a tight labour market. Links:DairyNZ people resourcesGoDairyChapters:1:55 - How can a recruitment agency help farmers?3:50 - How does dairy recruitment compare to other industries?7:02 - Why is it so hard to find staff right now?11:19 - Best time to post your vacancy13:32 - Contract start dates15:15 - Writing a job vacancy ad to attract the right people16.55 - Being clear about your workplace culture18:44 - Tailoring job ads to your audience20:53 - What are the hardest roles to fill?22:11 - Key things to offer to secure good candidates24:45 - Will the increase in minimum wage affect recruitment?25:22 - What to do if someone pulls out of a role30:14 - Advice for interviewing candidates36:05 - Being honest with those hard-to-attract roles37:52 - Top three things to consider to retain staff

What kind of technologies are farmers already using, why, and what are the next big things that could deliver value on-farm? In this episode we cover the likes of robotic milking and virtual fencing, but also a new device that could help prevent back injuries, and some technology aimed at helping us reduce heat stress in cows. It’s an exciting topic, but also a wide one, so to help us make sense of it are DairyNZ researchers Callum Eastwood and Brian Dela Rue. Also joining us is Will Burrett, General Manager of Ngāi Tahu Farming & Forestry, and a Director of Trev. Will talks about the technologies they’re using and thinking of using at Ngāi Tahu Farming, how they decide which ones to invest in, the outcomes they’re seeing, and any challenges with implementing their current tech. Links:New workplace designNew Dairies and TechnologyKanban boardsNgāi Tahu Farming

How can we lift the national average six-week in-calf rate from its current position of 67%? Two exciting new traits have emerged – age at puberty and AGD (distance from anus to genitals) – that could serve as early-in-life predictors of fertility performance. DairyNZ’s been investigating these traits, and others, by following 5000 cows in 54 herds. To find out what we’ve learned and what those findings mean for farmers, we're joined by DairyNZ senior scientist Chris Burke and DairyNZ PhD student Melissa Stephen, and Taranaki farmer Tracey Berquist.Read more about the research here

How effective is plantain at both reducing nitrate leaching and helping to fill the feed supply in warmer months? In this episode, we’re exploring the benefits and challenges of incorporating plantain into the farm system, specifically in the Tararua District. Our guests are sharemilker and DairyNZ extension partner Francesca Bennett and Tararua Plantain Project manager Adam Duker.The Tararua project is funded by DairyNZ, MPI, and Nestlē with many supporting partners including AgResearch, Agricom, Massey University, Fonterra, and Horizons Regional Council.Links:Tararua Plantain ProjectDairyNZ Plantain webpagePlantain Potency and Practice Programme

What prompted the Lincoln University Demonstration Dairy Farm’s move to full-season 10-in-7 milking? And what impact has it had on animal health, fertility, production and staff wellbeing? We speak with demonstration lead Jeremy Savage. Also on the episode is DairyNZ scientist Paul Edwards, who shares what the research is telling us about the effect of different milking intervals on milk production, fat and protein yields, and even sleeping patterns for farm staff.Links:Better workplaces through flexible milking podcast DairyNZ flexible milking researchDairyNZ flexible milking contentLincoln University Dairy Farm data

Does selecting bulls that have a high Fertility Breeding Value really improve your herd’s fertility? In this episode, DairyNZ senior scientist Susanne Meier talks about what we learned from studying a unique herd of heifers with high and low Fertility BV, during rearing and their first and second lactations. We also explore what prompted Dairy Holdings Limited to prioritise the fertility trait in their breeding programme, and what kind of results they’ve seen since. 

How does heat stress affect cows, what are some warning signs, and what can you do on farm to make life more comfortable for your cows? In this episode, Tom Buckley, farm manager for Owl Farm in Cambridge, goes into detail about the strategies they’re using to combat heat stress. Meanwhile, DairyNZ’s Jac McGowan talks about the science behind heat stress: how it affects cows, the warning signs, and what current research is underway.Links: Owl Farm’s heat stress strategiesDairyNZ’s heat stress info

How do you hold onto more of your profit when the milk price is up? We’re chatting with DairyNZ business specialist Paul Bird and Waikato farm owner Stephanie Gudgeon about the spending habits of high-profit farmers. Paul covers DairyNZ’s analysis of about 500 farm businesses, while Steph shares how she and husband Andy make their business work to achieve what’s important to them as a family. Links:Mark and Measure courseChooseFI podcastOn Purpose podcastElevate Your Life podcastCooking The Books podcastThe Fed and Fearless podcastThe Barefoot InvestorRich Dad Poor DadAtomic HabitsThe 7 Habits of Highly Effective PeopleThe 5 Love LanguagesBudget Case Studies‘Hold onto your profit’ Inside Dairy article

Two agriculture emissions pricing options, alternative to the NZ ETS, have just been released by He Waka Eke Noa. How do the options work and how much will farmers end up paying for their on-farm greenhouse gas emissions? To help you get your head around the options and have your say, we put some questions to agriculture industry leaders Bruce Thorrold (DairyNZ strategy and investment leader) and Dave Harrison (Beef + Lamb New Zealand general manager policy).

When it comes to breeding decisions, which animal traits matter the most to Kiwi dairy farmers? Should environmental traits should be part of the Breeding Worth index? Farmers were recently asked what they want to see in the cow of the future. Here to explain the findings is Dr Peter Amer from AbacusBio, with valuable insights and questions from Canterbury dairy farmer and genetics-enthusiast Tania Riddington.

Is agriculture going to be brought into the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS)? And what role does the He Waka Eke Noa partnership have to play in reducing agricultural emissions? In this episode, Waikato dairy farmer Sophia Hunt joins the podcast to ask DairyNZ principal policy advisor Roger Lincoln some questions on this topic.

Looking for some fresh ideas to reduce your nitrogen fertiliser use? On this episode, we chat with Waikato sharemilker Chris Numan, who with wife Rachel has made a bunch of changes to reduce both their N fertiliser use and N losses. Find out what motivated them (not regulations), what strategies they’re using, and the results they’re seeing. Plus, on an interesting tangent, we hear about Rachel’s new-found fame as a published author.

Could reducing the number of milkings in a week help the dairy sector attract new staff and improve work-life balance? One farmer who’s gone to a flexible milking schedule is John Totty in Canterbury, currently starting his second full season milking 10 times in 7 days. What were his reasons for changing his milking schedule, and what kind of outcomes is he seeing?

How did we arrive at our current wintering practices? What’s next for wintering animals on crop? And what kind of changes can you make on farm now? Find out in this episode with DairyNZ senior scientist Dr Dawn Dalley and Southland dairy farmer Rob Dingle.

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? And for farmers looking to step back next season, what are the three key things you can do now to be in the best position? Find out in this episode with James Allen, agribusiness consultant and managing director of AgFirst Waikato.

Good weather forecasting helps farmers to make better decisions. But how exactly do meteorologists come up with their predictions? Will forecasting become more accurate? And what kind of weather can farmers expect for the weeks and months ahead? Let’s find out from Chris Brandolino, NIWA’s Principal Scientist of Forecasting and Media.

Are your calves getting the colostrum they need? How are you supposed to know and what can you change to make sure they do? And what are some of the common myths about colostrum? Find out in this episode of Talking Dairy, featuring veterinarian and researcher Emma Cuttance.

Once cull cows are on the truck for transport, they can be a bit out of sight, out of mind. But our responsibility for their welfare doesn’t end at the gate. In this episode, DairyNZ animal care specialist Jac McGowan joins a local truck driver for a day to see first-hand the ins and outs of transporting stock, and what challenges you’re preparing them for.

Where do dairy farmers fit in the climate change discussion? Can farmers have confidence that emissions targets won’t keep shifting? And what support can farmers expect from the government? Climate Change Minister James Shaw sits down with us to talk it through. 

Taking over the National Party leadership was meant to be Todd Muller’s dream job, but instead, it thrust him into a season of intense anxiety and crippling panic attacks. In this episode, he candidly shares his mental health story, including everything he’s learned about recognising the symptoms and staying well. 

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 in the Climate Change Commission’s carbon budgets proposal and what does it mean for dairy farmers? Do you need to do anything yet? Let’s find out from DairyNZ’s principal policy advisor Roger Lincoln.

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? We put those questions and more to DairyNZ senior business specialist Sarah Brown.