In this episode of Talking Dairy, we unpack the findings of the most in-depth independent return on investment (ROI) ever – commissioned by DairyNZ to provide farmers with more transparency. 

Join host Jac McGowan as she talks with Dr Alan Pearson from Nimmo Bell, the independent analysts behind the report, and DairyNZ Chair Tracy Brown, who commissioned the work.

They explain:

• How $341 million in levy revenue delivered an estimated $2.98 billion in value for farmers between 2020 and 2025.
• Which initiatives delivered the biggest returns.
• Why collective investment is critical to keep dairy competitive and ready for the future.
• What DairyNZ is doing differently to ensure we’re focused on what matters to farmers.

If you’ve ever wondered “What's the return on my levy investment?”, this episode gives you the answer and the facts.

About the milksolids levy

Summary of report into DairyNZ levy ROI to farmers 

Report into DairyNZ levy ROI to farmers 

Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz

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In this episode of Talking Dairy in 10, animal scientist Dr Stacey Hendriks explains how research using wearable technology is building a deeper understanding of cow wellbeing and their experience in pasture-based systems.

Hear how scientists are combining a mix of tech and data in innovative ways to enhance research into animal care as they aim to uncover how cows respond to heat stress and other challenges, and test strategies like shade and sprinklers to see what really works. The goal? To create science-based solutions that help farmers confidently manage cow comfort and productivity more effectively in the future. 

How to support positive welfare in your cows 

Find out more about Heat Stress in Cows research

Read more about this research in Inside Dairy November-January 2026

Meet the scientist: Stacey Hendriks

Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz

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Every minute in the farm dairy counts. Research shows the right milking routine can save you hours every week. In this episode of Talking Dairy in 10, host Jac McGowan chats with Dairy Training tutors Julie Morgan and Pete Morgan about how small changes at milking can make a big difference.

They explain how the free MilkSmart workshop can help you fine-tune your milking routine using proven DairyNZ science including MaxT, which can shave minutes off every milking, and in some cases over three hours per week.

If you’d like to know how you could get time back in your day, tune in to hear more and then check out Dairy Training to find a MilkSmart workshop near you.

MilkSmart - Dairy Training

About Dairy Training

Dairy Training is a subsidiary of DairyNZ and registered NZQA provider. With funding from the Tertiary Education Commission and support from DairyNZ, it delivers free training to help farmers build capability.

Courses are expertly designed, teaching practical skills farmers can use immediately. Dairy Training also delivers popular DairyNZ-designed workshops such as MilkSmart and CalvingSmart

Check out dairytraining.co.nz to find courses and workshops available near you.

Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz

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How is the great animal care already happening on your farm helping New Zealand dairy stay ahead of global market expectations?

In this episode of Talking Dairy, we explore why animal care matters for New Zealand’s dairy competitiveness and how farmers have helped shape DairyNZ’s research right from the start.

You’ll hear from Penny Timmer-Arends and Dr Stacey Hendriks as they explain what markets and consumers are asking for, how NZ compares internationally, and what influences cow comfort and welfare in our pasture-based farm systems.

Penny and Stacey also discuss the challenges to good cow welfare that farmers are managing, like heat stress, comfortable lying surfaces and seasonal staffing pressure. They explain how current DairyNZ research – including work using wearable tech – is building better insights into how cows experience their environment, so farmers can make informed decisions, and our sector can stay future-ready.

This episode gives you a practical overview of where animal care expectations are heading and the science that supports farmers to stay ahead.

Links to more information mentioned in this episode:

Animal Welfare - DairyNZ | DairyNZ

Research - Science Projects - Heat Stress | DairyNZ

Research - Science Projects - United States Mega Dairies | DairyNZ

The development of a tool to assess cow quality of life based on system-level attributes across pastoral dairy farms - ScienceDirect

Download the Preventing and managing lameness guide 

Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz

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In this episode of Talking Dairy in 10, host Jac McGowan chats with Noldy Rust, Chair of SMASH (Smaller Milk and Supply Herds), and Frank Portegys from DairyNZ, about how this grassroots initiative is helping farmers connect, learn, and grow stronger businesses together.

SMASH began as a local idea to celebrate and support smaller herd farmers. Partnering with DairyNZ, it’s grown into a nationwide network, offering practical learning open to everyone.

Find out what’s coming up on the SMASH calendar and what to expect when you head along to their events (we also heard there might be a good lunch there too).

Learn more about SMASH or find an event: SMASH NZ

About DairyNZ collaboration with sector partners

At DairyNZ, we work alongside trusted partners to stretch your levy further, supporting better farming, stronger communities, and a more resilient dairy sector. These partnerships aren’t just about funding. We roll up our sleeves too, offering time, tools and expertise to help deliver what matters most to farmers. By collaborating with sector leaders, we make an impact where it counts – reducing duplication, promoting better farming practices, and maintaining our independence and credibility. Together, we’re building a future that’s practical and inclusive, and maintains our competitive edge. Partnerships with organisations like SMASH reflect our shared commitment to delivering real value for New Zealand dairy farmers. Together, we’re shaping a sector that’s connected, capable and ready for the future. Find out more about DairyNZ partnerships.  

Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz

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With Fonterra’s sale of global consumer and associated businesses, Mainland Group, to Lactalis now approved, many shareholder farmers will soon receive a sizeable capital return, alongside strong milk prices. So, what’s the smartest move when opportunity knocks?

In this episode of Talking Dairy, Jac McGowan talks with financial commentator Martin Hawes and MBS Advisors director and rural accountant Nigel McWilliam about how to make confident, practical decisions that strengthen both your farm and your family’s future. From paying down debt to investing off-farm - or simply taking a well-earned break - they share grounded, no-nonsense advice on how to plan for the long term, reduce pressure, and make choices that fit your goals.

Thank you to Martin and Nigel for joining us on this episode. Find out more about them below:

Martin Hawes

MBS Advisors

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In this episode of Talking Dairy, we explore the latest DairyBase upgrades that make benchmarking faster and easier. 

DairyBase, our farm benchmarking tool, now connects with Farm Focus – and soon with tools like MINDA and Fonterra – so your financial and herd data flows in with just a few clicks. That means quicker cashflow reports, timely insights, and less time at your desk. 

Hear from DairyBase manager (and dairy farmer) Jodie Goudswaard, and South Waikato and Lower Waipa area manager Steph Gudgeon – also a dairy farmer and long-time DairyBase user – about how these integrations are already making a difference. 

Log in to DairyBase 

Not already with DairyBase? 

Find out more about DairyBase 

Why join DairyBase? 

Join DairyBase now 

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In this episode of Talking Dairy in 10, get the inside scoop from Pasture Summit directors Robbie Ferris and Al Rayne. They reveal what’s happening at the upcoming Pasture Summit events, and why they’re a “must have” event on your calendar this spring. 

Spring 2025 events are being held in Canterbury on Thursday 27 November, and Taranaki on Friday 12 December. 

Find out more and register at: Pasture Summit 

Pasture Summit is a farmer-led initiative focused on securing the future of pastoral dairy food production. Its events and activities bring together practical insights, shared experiences, and a strong sense of purpose. As a key partner, DairyNZ contributes funding, research-backed content, and experts to help farmers build resilient, profitable businesses and sustainable communities. 

Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz

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Want to make the most of your homegrown feed? This episode of Talking Dairy is a chance to catch up on what was shared at our recent Progressing Dairy events focused on maximising homegrown feed. If you couldn’t make it along – or want to hear another farmers’ and scientists’ perspective - this episode brings the event to you.

In this episode hosted by Area Manager Mattes Groenendijk, Waimakariri contract milkers Will and Sarah Gard share how they lifted pasture harvest and milk production by focusing on the basics. You’ll also hear how they plan their grazing rounds, manage residuals, and what tools they use to make informed decisions. DairyNZ’s Dawn Dalley talks about the science behind pasture allocation and mowing, while Sarah also shares insights from the DairyNZ Improved Forage Gains programme in her other job as Senior Project Manager and Programme Lead.

Links to information mentioned in this episode:

Find an event near you - DairyNZ Progressing Dairy events

DairyNZ Resilient Pastures Programme

Pasture fundamentals - DairyNZ information

Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz

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Milk price forecasts are holding steady, but costs remain high. What does that mean for your bottom line this season? DairyNZ economist Ben Marmont unpacks the latest Econ Tracker update and what watch for in the months ahead.

For more information: 

DairyNZ Economic Tracker tool Access here 

Article: Dairy sector outlook remains steady Read more

Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz

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Owning a dairy farm is still one of the biggest aspirations people hold. In this episode of Talking Dairy, Jac McGowan talks with Blair Robinson from Dairy Holdings and Tony Finch from DairyNZ about what a pathway to farm ownership looks like in 2025. Hear what sets those are successful apart from the rest and inspiring stories of farmers who have recently turned their goal into reality. 

Read or listen to the latest Inside Dairy story mentioned in this episode:

Inside Dairy - Lessons along the way to landing the dream | DairyNZ

Links to information mentioned in this episode:

Business - DairyNZ | DairyNZ

Dairy Holdings Limited | Home

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Can a small amount of plantain in pasture really reduce nitrogen loss on-farm? New research from trials at Lincoln and Massey Universities suggests it can, and the results might surprise you. Kate Fransen shares the latest findings from DairyNZ’s Plantain Potency and Practice Programme and an update on what’s working, how farmers are using it effectively, and what’s next for the programme. 

Find out more about this research programme: Plantain Potency and Practice Programme - DairyNZ | DairyNZ 

Read the latest news story on this research: Latest plantain trial results again show role in reducing nitrogen leaching | DairyNZ 

Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz

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Why is it that some workplaces seem to flow better than others? In this episode of Talking Dairy, DairyNZ researchers Dr Lucy Hall and Brian Dela Rue share insights on how time is used on-farm from 10 in-depth workplace productivity case studies across New Zealand. You’ll hear practical ways people are working smarter, not harder, and how small changes can free up time, boost productivity and keep business profitable. And, if you’re thinking of making some changes or fine-tuning operations, there’s also practical ideas and tips that could help.

For more information about this research, visit Research - Workplace Productivity | DairyNZ

Links to other information mentioned in this podcast:

• Productive workplaces | DairyNZ 
• Creating a productive workplace | DairyNZ
• Workplace Efficiency Booster: a 6-step challenge | DairyNZ
• Inside Dairy - Understanding on-farm workplace productivity drivers | DairyNZ 
• Building a high-performing farm team | Ep. 102 | DairyNZ
• MilkSmart - DairyNZ | DairyNZ

Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz

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Tune into Talking Dairy in 10 for bite-size conversations. 

In this update about the International Precision Dairy Farming Conference, host Jac McGowan chats with DairyNZ Head of Science, Nicolas Lyons. They unpack what precision dairy farming really means, why this global event is a big deal for New Zealand, and how technology can make farming easier, more efficient, and sustainable. Hear about the world-class speakers, on-farm tours, and why this is a must-attend event for farmers who want to future-proof their business.

For more information and to register, go to precisiondairyfarmingconference.nz  

Early bird fees up until Friday 17 October and discounted rates are available for NZ dairy levy payers.

Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz

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What’s going to improve our water quality and keep enabling productivity? In this episode, we discuss practical and proven solutions from key catchments. 

Johan van Ras, Ron Pellow and Justin Kitto share what’s worked, from stream planting and edge-of-field mitigations to simple farm system changes that reduce nitrogen loss. You’ll hear how farmers, iwi and communities made progress together through the Sustainable Catchments programme, and how you can apply the same ideas on your farm.

The Sustainable Catchments programme was funded by investment from the Ministry for the Environment’s Jobs for Nature programme and dairy farmers via the DairyNZ levy.

You can also read the story of their success finding solutions on page 8 & 9 in the Inside Dairy August-October 2025 edition: Practical solutions for catchments

Links to information mentioned in this episode:
Riparian planting - DairyNZ | DairyNZ

Waimea catchment | DairyNZ

South Canterbury Catchment | DairyNZ

Monitoring water quality in catchments | DairyNZ

Stream ecosystem health | DairyNZ

Low N Systems | DairyNZ

Catchment Group Support | DairyNZ

Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz

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Tune into Talking Dairy in 10 for bite-size conversations.  

As we’re nearing the end of Biosecurity Awareness Month, DairyNZ experts Fi Roberts and Mitch Cooper join us to answer some common questions about biosecurity. Find out about practical tips for protecting your farm this spring, how prepared is NZ for biosecurity incursions, what are we keeping an eye on overseas, and how farmer voices are influencing biosecurity policy. 

DairyNZ’s Strong Biosecurity Systems Programme aims to strengthen industry-wide biosecurity. 

Its 10-year sector ambition is for an integrated, science-based, and sustainably funded biosecurity system that reduces institutional fragmentation, improves coordination and ensures efficient investment of dairy farmer levies. 

Links to information mentioned in this episode: 

Why our future depends on taking biosecurity seriously today | DairyNZ 

Biosecurity - DairyNZ | DairyNZ 

Visitor biosecurity management - DairyNZ | DairyNZ 

Biosecurity resources and tools | DairyNZ 

Your levy - DairyNZ | DairyNZ 

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Regional rules might feel like they’re made a long way from the farm gate – yet they directly affect how you farm every day. From nutrient limits to land use rules, the decisions made at your regional council table can change what you can and can’t do on-farm.

In this episode, you’ll hear from some of DairyNZ’s regional policy team – David Cooper, Carina Ross, and Shaun Hazelton – on the big changes happening in policy right now and why your voice matters in these processes. 

Hear how DairyNZ is collaborating and working for dairy farmers to make sure rules are informed by research and grounded in reality, and how that protects your ability to farm productively and sustainably into the future.

Since we recorded this episode, there’s been a win for farmers on two issues that DairyNZ has been advocating behind the scenes on:

1. More common-sense rules for low-risk activities
The government has changed the Resource Management Act so regional councils can set rules that let some low-risk farm activities go ahead without needing a consent, as long as they still help improve water quality over time. This means councils like Waikato and Southland can follow through on their original plans to keep things simple for low-risk activities, instead of farmers getting caught in unnecessary red tape.

2. Breathing space for Otago water permits
In Otago, some water permits will now be automatically extended for five more years. They’ve also removed rules around certain discharges that simply couldn’t be put into practice. This takes pressure off until the new regional plan is in place – meaning farmers can keep operating without being stuck in limbo.

Why it matters
These changes are a direct result of ongoing advocacy from DairyNZ and others. They give farmers more certainty, reduce paperwork, and mean the rules better reflect the realities on-farm – all while keeping the focus on improving water quality for the long term.

For more information about DairyNZ’s advocacy work for dairy farmers, visit these links:

Our policy and advocacy work for farmers | DairyNZ

Resource management reform | DairyNZ

Regional freshwater advocacy - DairyNZ | DairyNZ

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Tune into Talking Dairy in 10 for bite-size conversations. 

This episode brings you an update about DairyNZ’s recent submission on the National Freshwater Framework under the Resource Management Act reform. DairyNZ’s Principal Policy Advisor, David Cooper, joins us to share what we said, why, and what it could mean for your farm. 

Read more about our work on freshwater policy reform for farmers 

View the submission 

Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz

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Can your farm be both high profit and low in emissions intensity? What are the top-performing farms doing differently – and what can you learn from them?

This episode of Talking Dairy explores new research that reveals how some of New Zealand’s most profitable dairy farms are also achieving lower greenhouse gas emissions intensity. It’s part of the Emissions and Profitability Project – a joint effort between DairyNZ, DairyBase, Fonterra and LIC – based on data from around 8,000 farms.

Host Jac McGowan is joined by Mark Neal, Head of Data Science and Modelling from DairyNZ and Louise Cook, Programme Manager (Environmental) from Fonterra’s On-Farm Excellence team, to unpack what the data shows, where the opportunities are, and what it all means for your farm. 

With international customers and milk processors increasingly focused on this metric, this research highlights how a balanced, homegrown approach can deliver results – both financially and environmentally.

Useful tools and resources: 

• Emissions and Profitability Project | DairyNZ
• Business - DairyBase | DairyNZ
• Reproduction and mating | DairyNZ
• Feed fundamentals | DairyNZ
• Less methane | DairyNZ
• Climate - Managing GHG emissions | DairyNZ

Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz

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In this episode of Talking Dairy, we’re talking about pasture – the foundation of New Zealand farming.

Farmers in the upper North Island have been noticing changes for a while now: pastures that don’t last as long, more pests, and weather that’s harder to predict. These challenges are backed up by DairyNZ data that shows pasture growth in Northland and Waikato has dropped by up to one tonne of dry matter per hectare each decade.

To help solve this problem, a new sector-wide research initiative led by DairyNZ was launched in June 2025 - called Resilient Pastures. The goal? Work with farmers to find tools and practical solutions for pasture species, seed mixes, and management practices that can stand up to these changes now and into the future. And for these solutions to be able to be adopted on all types of farms around the country.

Host Jac McGowan talks to Senior Scientist Dr Elena Minnee from DairyNZ and Jim Inglis from research partner Beef + Lamb NZ Strategy and Operations about:

• Why this programme exists and why it’s starting in the North
• The challenges farmers are facing
• How research, farmer experience and government funding are working together
• What the programme will do for farmers over the next seven years
• How the results will save costs and add value wherever you farm in New Zealand

The discussion highlights the significance of pasture in New Zealand's farming systems and the collaborative efforts to ensure sustainable and profitable farming practices.

To learn more about the Resilient Pastures research programme, visit Resilient Pastures Programme | DairyNZ

Funding partners

• Ministry for Primary Industries, through the Primary Sector Growth Fund
• DairyNZ
• Beef+Lamb New Zealand
• TR Ellet Agricultural Research Trust
• Barenbrug
• Fonterra
• Hine Rangi Trust
• Northland Dairy Development Trust

Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz

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More farmers are investing in wearable technology to help manage heat detection and ease pressure on skilled people during a busy time on-farm. But do these devices improve reproductive performance – an important factor regularly considered in return on investment calculations? 

In this episode, Jac McGowan speaks with DairyNZ senior scientist Dr Paul Edwards and CowSmart vet and co-founder Line Ferriman. Together, they break down new independent research that compares reproduction results from herds using wearables and those that don’t.

The study shows farmers using wearable tech are adopting new mating approaches like extended or all-AB periods. But does the data show performance gains as well? Listen in to hear about the findings and interesting insights from this research.

For more information:

• Inside Dairy story: A closer look at wearable technology | DairyNZ
•  DairyNZ information: Automated heat detection | DairyNZ 
• DairyNZ Technology and Workplace Practices Survey: Milking Practices and Technology Use | DairyNZ
• CowSmart: CowSmart - Animal Monitoring Data Consultancy

Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz

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In this episode of Talking Dairy, we cover strategies that help create high-performing dairy teams. You’ll hear from Jane Muir, DairyNZ Senior People Specialist, and Fiona Langford, who, along with her husband Thomas, are the 2025 Share Farmers of the Year at the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards. They share how great leadership, clear communication, and smart planning make all the difference on-farm.

Fiona shares how they run their year-round operation with multiple employees, and how they focus on culture, wellbeing and development to keep their people happy and productive. Jane brings insights from the latest DairyNZ Employee Survey and tools like the refreshed Workplace 360 to help you lead with confidence.

Whether you’re bringing new employees on or wondering about what you could do to improve your workplace environment, this episode will leave you with practical ideas and plenty of inspiration.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Try the updated Workplace 360 assessment - see what’s working well and what to improve.
• Sign up for a free CalvingSmart workshop with Dairy Training - practical, short sessions happening nationwide in June and July.
• Check out Dairy Training’s Emerging Leadership course - help your next leaders step up on-farm.

Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz

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What does it take to breed a high performing herd - now and into the future?

Earlier this year, DairyNZ and Fonterra co-hosted a series of on-farm events focused on lifting genetic gain through better breeding decisions. One of those events was held at Clovalley Farms, run by Donovan Croot and Sophie Cookson in South Taranaki. Now, we’re bringing that conversation to you.

In this episode of Talking Dairy, hosted by DairyNZ Taranaki Area Manager Talissa Squire, Donovan and Sophie share how they’ve built a herd that ranks in the top 1% nationally for Breeding Worth (BW).  They explain how they’ve applied DairyNZ’s 'Five ways to a high BW herd' in a way that fits their farm, their values and their goals.

They talk openly about what’s worked, what hasn’t, and what they’ve learned along the way.

Whether you're just starting out with genetics or already fine-tuning your approach, this is a must-listen for any farmer wanting to breed a better herd.

Listen now to learn how to make smarter breeding decisions, improve genetic gain in your herd, and future-proof your business.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Breeding Worth - DairyNZ | DairyNZ
• Tools - Animal Herd Averages | DairyNZ
• Bull Search - DairyNZ | DairyNZ
• Bull Team - DairyNZ | DairyNZ
• Ranking of Active Sires (RAS) | DairyNZ
• InCalf reproduction gap calculator - DairyNZ | DairyNZ

Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz

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Ever wondered how New Zealand dairy became world-class? In this special 100th episode, we go behind the scenes of the science and farmer-led innovation that made it happen. 

Join host Jac McGowan as she chats with DairyNZ’s Chief Science Advisor Bruce Thorrold and Chief Executive Campbell Parker. Together, they look back at the science, smarts, and farmer-led research that helped turn a tough industry into a global success.

You’ll learn how NZ dairy farmers went from milking on average 147 cows in the ‘80s to becoming the most efficient milk producers in the world. More importantly, you’ll get a glimpse of what’s coming next.

Whether you've been farming for years or you're just getting started, this episode will leave you proud to be part of the New Zealand dairy story.

More information

History of your levy investment | DairyNZ 

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Are you ready to ride the global economic rollercoaster - and come out stronger?

In this episode of Talking Dairy, you’ll hear from two of New Zealand’s top economists, Brad Olsen and Cameron Bagrie. They’ll break down what’s happening in global trade and explain what it means for your dairy farm.

From rising tensions between the US and China, to big changes in shipping, and Fonterra’s next moves - this is the stuff that shapes your business.

You’ll find out how global politics are changing trade and why the world feels less predictable than it used to. You’ll hear smart ways to protect your farm’s future and get practical tips for managing risk in tough times.

Want more? This episode is just a warm-up for what’s coming at the 2025 DairyNZ Farmers’ Forum. 

Listen now and then check out Farmers’ Forum 2025 to register for an event near you.

More information:

Farmers Forum - Dairy's Future. The here and how.

DairyNZ’s signature event for 2025, held in three locations: 

• Hamilton – 27 May
• Ashburton – 17 June
• Invercargill – 2 July

It’s your chance to not only look ahead, but to see what it will take to shape the future of dairy.

Thought leaders in global trade, dairy exports, economic developments, technology and consumer demands will join forces with forward-thinking innovative farmers. 

For more information on the programme, speakers, and to register, go to: Farmers’ Forum 2025 - DairyNZ

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