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 

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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

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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

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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

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

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Wondering how to meet like-minded people or take the next step in your ag career? Want to feel part of something bigger than just your day-to-day job? You’re not alone - and there is a way to build your network, grow your skills, and find your place in the sector.

In this episode of Talking Dairy, we’re exploring the power of community and how NZ Young Farmers is helping young people in the ag sector feel supported, connected, and inspired.

We’re joined by Waikato farmer Robin Buser, who made a move from corporate life to dairy farming - and found his “farming family” through NZ Young Farmers. He shares how saying yes to joining a club changed the game for him, both personally and professionally.

Also with us is Lynda Coppersmith, CEO of NZ Young Farmers, who reflects on how the organisation has evolved to support the next generation and why partnerships - like the one with DairyNZ - are key to building a stronger future for dairy.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• How Robin built confidence, community, and direction through his local NZ Young Farmers club
• What NZ Young Farmers is doing to support today’s young people in ag
• Why joining NZ Young Farmers can be a win for both employees and employers
• What’s next for NZ Young Farmers
• Why now is the perfect time to get involved

Whether you’re just starting out, keen to grow your leadership skills, or looking to back the next wave of talent - this episode is for you.

Find out more about NZ Young Farmers 

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

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When it comes to herd improvement, it’s easy to focus on high heritability traits like milk production and liveweight - where the gains are faster and more visible. But what about the traits that take time?

In this episode of Talking Dairy, Jac McGowan and Dr Rhiannon Hancock, a scientist at NZ Animal Evaluation, talk about why low heritability traits deserve a place in your breeding strategy – especially if you’re playing the long game.

Rhiannon explains how even small genetic gains in these areas can build over time, leading to big wins for herd productivity and long-term profitability. 

Find out:

• Why heritability matters
• Why slow progress is still real progress
• Practical tips for long-term herd improvement

Listen for the full story behind the science.
 

This episode was inspired by the myth-busting story in the Feb-April edition of Inside Dairy – available at dairynz.co.nz/inside-dairy

Resources for more information on this topic:

Is focusing on low-heritability traits valuable when making breeding decisions? | DairyNZ

Animal - Breeding Decisions | DairyNZ

Breeding Worth | DairyNZ

Bull Search | DairyNZ

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

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New Zealand dairy farmers are making great progress in reducing antibiotic use at dry-off - but how do we keep that momentum going? With antimicrobial resistance on the rise, selective dry cow therapy has become an important tool for protecting both herd health and the long-term effectiveness of antibiotics. The key is making smart, informed decisions that safeguard milk quality while keeping cows healthy.

In this episode, we’re joined by Mitch Cooper, a Veterinarian and DairyNZ’s Senior Technical & Policy Advisor, and Veronica Oostveen, a Southland dairy farmer and DairyNZ Area Manager. They break down the latest research and share practical strategies to help you:

• Use data to make smarter treatment decisions
• Cut antibiotic use without compromising cow health
• Manage dry-off risks effectively
• Apply proven strategies that have dropped somatic cell counts

Veronica shares how selective dry cow therapy has improved her herd’s health and performance, and Mitch explains why responsible antibiotic use matters for our future.

Tune in for the latest research and insights.

Find the DairyNZ tools and resources mentioned in this episode:

Dry cow strategies | DairyNZ

dairynz-guideline-14-dry-cow-strategy.pdf

dairynz-technote-14-dry-cow-strategy.pdf

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

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It’s been a season of shifting gears. We started with high costs and cautious optimism, but as the months rolled on, things began looking up - better milk prices, easing interest rates, and a bit more breathing room financially. But what does that actually mean for your farm? And, more importantly, how can you make the most of it? 

In this episode of Talking Dairy, we take a close look at how the season has played out and what’s on the horizon. Mark Storey, Head of Economics at DairyNZ, and Paul Bird, Senior Business Specialist , break down the key trends shaping farm finances right now. They unpack why this $10 payout isn’t quite a record in real terms, and why it’s important to invest extra income wisely. 

We also discuss the challenges still at play, including dry conditions in many regions and what that means for feed and milk production. With farmers feeling more positive about the future, we look at what’s driving that confidence and what risks - both locally and internationally - could shake things up next season. 

With a new season just around the corner, now is the time to be thinking ahead. What financial moves should you be making? How can you set your farm up to stay resilient, no matter what’s coming? Tune in to find out. 

Find the DairyNZ business tools mentioned in this episode: 

All DairyNZ business tools  

Cashflow budget tools for different suppliers 

DairyNZ Economic Tracker tool 

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

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Stay up to date with advice, latest research, tools and resources. Read, browse, scroll, listen, or be there in person. Visit dairynz.co.nz/get-connected