DAIRY Country

The Science for Farmers tent at the Wānaka A&P Show this year gave farmers a great chance to see and hear about a wide range of research as well as ways that’s being implemented on farms. Dairy Country Podcast host Anne Lee was there and talked to Danny Donaghy of Massey University, Pāmu’s Head of Sustainability Sam Bridgman, and LIC Senior Herd Improvement Specialist Simon Worth. Each shared the ways science and innovation are helping farmers respond to climate pressure, lift system resilience, and future-proof performance. Host: Anne Lee, Senior Journalist, Dairy Country Guests: Danny Donaghy, Professor of Dairy Production Systems & Deputy Head, School of Agriculture and Environment, Massey University Simon Worth, Senior Herd Improvement Specialist, LIC Sam Bridgman, Head of Sustainability, Pāmu   Danny Donaghy shares insights from the Whenua Haumanu research programme, challenging the idea that more pasture diversity is always better. Instead, he outlines a functional approach, selecting a small number of complementary species to improve yield, animal performance and environmental outcomes. His work shows that well-designed mixes can deliver measurable gains, often at lower cost, while helping farmers better manage drought, nitrogen loss and seasonal variability. Simon Worth outlines LIC’s work on the slick gene, a naturally occurring trait that improves heat tolerance in cattle. He explains how the gene has been progressively bred into high-performing dairy animals, with the goal of delivering commercially viable bulls within the next few years. As temperatures rise, tools like this will become increasingly important, sitting alongside management and system changes to help farmers maintain productivity under heat stress. Sam Bridgman explains how Pāmu is using detailed climate projections to help farmers understand future risks and adapt accordingly. By using tools to map changes in rainfall, heat and extreme events at a farm level, the work highlights practical, often simple adjustments that can improve resilience. From water management to system design, he emphasises that small, informed changes can strengthen both environmental and financial performance over time.   Find the Ministry for the Environment climate tool mentioned in the episode here: https://map.climatedata.environment.govt.nz/  Sign up to the weekly DAIRY Country email newsletter here: https://dairycountry.co.nz/sign-up/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The episode is dedicated to the late Dr Dave Leathwick, AgResearch parasitologist, scientist and champion for the battle against drench resistance. A closer look at drench resistance in dairy systems highlights how rapidly conventional parasite control methods are becoming less effective and why farmers need to take a more strategic approach. WormWise programme manager and veterinarian Ginny Dodunski unpacks the latest data and on-farm observations, explaining what drench resistance is, how it develops over time, and why it can remain hidden until it starts affecting animal performance. Host: Anne Lee, Senior Journalist, Dairy Country Guest: Ginny Dodunski, Programme Manager, WormWise   Using recent research and real-world examples, Ginny outlines the increasing presence of resistant Cooperia and Ostertagia in young cattle, including cases where commonly used combination drenches are no longer doing the job. She discusses how drench selection, frequency, and inconsistent dosing, particularly with pour-on products, can contribute to resistance, and why early and accurate testing is essential to understand what is happening onfarm. The discussion also turns to practical ways farmers can reduce reliance on drenches. Ginny highlights the importance of pasture management, calf nutrition, and grazing strategies in lowering worm challenge. She explains why reducing exposure to worms in the first place can be more effective than trying to treat them later. Alongside the science, she reinforces the value of good decision making and working alongside vets to build more resilient, future proof farming systems.   New Wormwise Handbook: https://beeflambnz.com/knowledge-hub/PDF/wormwise-resource-book.pdf Pamu case studies: https://www.pamunewzealand.com/pamunewzealand-pmu3/images/2024-Drench-resistance-and-parasite-management-at-P%C4%81mu.pdf Wormwise resistance report: https://beeflambnz.com/knowledge-hub/PDF/convenience-sample-cattle-faecal-egg-count-reduction-tests-new-zealand-2021-2024   Sign up to the weekly DAIRY Country email newsletter here: https://dairycountry.co.nz/sign-up/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lynaire Ryan from Agribusiness Education and Paul Bird from DairyNZ are focused on helping farmers build long-term wealth by improving financial understanding and making better use of the tools available within the dairy industry. In this episode, Anne Lee talks with the pair about the pathways available to farmers, how different operating structures support progression, and why the sector continues to offer strong opportunities for those starting out or looking to grow. Host: Anne Lee, Senior Journalist, Dairy Country Guests: Lynaire Ryan, Agribusiness Education Paul Bird, Senior business specialist, DairyNZ Lynaire and Paul explain how principles such as profitability, return on assets and the power of compounding underpin successful wealth creation, and why being in the top half of performance is critical. They discuss practical steps including building a savings base, investing in high-performing assets, and using leverage carefully, while also outlining the importance of measuring progress through indicators like equity growth. Alongside the financial concepts, they highlight the role of skills, discipline and reputation in unlocking opportunities, and how consistent decision-making over time can lead to significant gains both on-farm and beyond.   Read the article featuring Lynaire and Paul here: https://dairycountry.co.nz/tools-for-growth/ Sign up to the weekly DAIRY Country email newsletter here: https://dairycountry.co.nz/sign-up/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Eldon and Roseanne Megaw have built a career in dairy through contract milking while steadily growing equity in property and farm partnerships. In this episode, Anne Lee talks with the couple about their journey from early farm experiences and managing roles through to investing in residential property and stepping into an equity partnership at Aranui, a fully irrigated Canterbury farm. Host: Anne Lee, Senior Journalist, Dairy Country Guests: Eldon and Roseanne Megaw, South Canterbury Farm Owners   Eldon and Roseanne Megaw explain how they balanced contract milking responsibilities with property management to diversify income and build financial resilience. Eldon and Roseanne discuss the strategies that have guided their success, including building strong relationships with farm owners and peers, maintaining efficiency and financial discipline, and creating systems and standards for their farm teams. They also share how patience, resilience and flexibility have allowed them to seize opportunities both inside and outside the farm gate, from investing in houses and subdivisions to exploring other income streams, all while staying focused on long-term goals and equity growth. Read the article featuring Eldon and Roseanne Megaw from the Autumn 2026 issue of DAIRY Country here: https://dairycountry.co.nz/little-habits-build-big-equity/   Find out more about the Better pastures together podcast from Barenbrug here: https://www.barenbrug.co.nz/podcasts Sign up to the weekly DAIRY Country email newsletter here: https://dairycountry.co.nz/sign-up/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Anne Lee sits down with Stu Davison of HighGround Dairy to unpack the sharp turnaround in global dairy markets and what is driving the recent surge in prices on the Global Dairy Trade platform. Drawing on his day-to-day market analysis, Stu explains why strong global milk production has not translated into weaker prices and how sentiment, geopolitics and supply chain disruption have shifted the tone of 2026. Host: Anne Lee, Senior Journalist, Dairy Country Guest: Stu Davison, HighGround Dairy   Bringing both global perspective and practical insight to the discussion, Stu breaks down the unusual strength in skim milk powder, the narrowing gap with whole milk powder and the role of protein demand in tightening supply. He outlines how Chinese buying patterns, trade tensions with Europe, Middle Eastern uncertainty and energy market volatility are layering complexity onto already interconnected markets. It is a clear-eyed conversation about volatility, risk management and why, in a year like this, budgeting for uncertainty may matter more than trying to outguess the market.   Find out more about the Better pastures together podcast from Barenbrug here: https://www.barenbrug.co.nz/podcasts Sign up to the weekly DAIRY Country email newsletter here: https://dairycountry.co.nz/sign-up/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this special episode, Sarah sits down with Andrew MacPherson and Cara Sheridan to unpack the arrival of Bovillus Cryptium, a new vaccine for calves targeting cryptosporidiosis, and what it means for farmers managing calf health in New Zealand. The discussion sets the scene for why this vaccine is a game changer, how it can improve calf welfare and long-term performance, and why proactive planning with your vet is key to getting the most from it. With spring 2026 calving approaching, now is the time to understand how to integrate this new tool into your farm systems. Host: Sarah Perriam-Lampp, Editor-in-Chief, CountryWide Guests: Andrew MacPherson, Technical Advisor, MSD Animal Health Cara Sheridan, Ruminant Technical Vet Manager, MSD Animal Health   Andrew MacPherson from MSD Animal Health New Zealand explains how the vaccine works by stimulating maternal antibodies for passive transfer to calves, reducing the risk of disease and improving growth outcomes. He outlines practical advice for farmers on administration timing, integrating the vaccine with existing protocols like Rotavac Corona, and the importance of planning early with their vets to maximise its benefits.   Cara Sheridan, MSD’s Ruminant Technical Vet Manager in Ireland, shares insights from the vaccine’s use in Ireland since mid-2024. She highlights the positive impact on calf health, reduced labour, and improved farm management, alongside the importance of quality colostrum and effective calf-rearing practices. Cara’s experience demonstrates how this preventive tool can reduce reliance on antibiotics while supporting animal welfare and performance, offering practical lessons for New Zealand farmers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year award is designed to recognise leadership, contribution and future-focused thinking within the dairy sector, while also encouraging others to step forward and get involved. In this episode, Anne Lee sits down with award recipient Jo Sheridan to unpack her experience as the 2025 Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year, going through the Dairy Women’s Network process and what the recognition has meant both personally and professionally. The discussion sets the scene for why awards like this matter, how they can help bring clarity on your direction and why you don’t need to sit back and wait to be nominated. Self-nomination and backing yourself is a great way to open doors to new opportunities across the sector. Applications and nominations for 2026 close on February 28. Host: Anne Lee, Senior Journalist, Dairy Country Guest: Jo Sheridan, Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year 2025   Jo also discusses her work as Demonstration Manager at Owl Farm, which is run as a joint-venture between St Peter’s Cambridge school and Lincoln University. She outlines why future-focused farm systems, youth engagement and clear progression pathways are critical to the long-term success of dairy. She shares insights from a recent Fonterra study tour to the United States, including what global customers value, how technology and genetics are accelerating change, and what New Zealand farmers can learn from international systems. The conversation also covers how Owl Farm is tracking this season, what the data is showing around production and reproduction, and why continuous monitoring, adaptability and people development are central to building resilient farm businesses.   Find out more about the Better pastures together podcast from Barenbrug here: https://www.barenbrug.co.nz/podcastsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A major research effort aimed at cutting nitrogen (N) losses without losing sight of farm viability is putting practical system change under the microscope. In this episode, Anne Lee speaks with Dr Racheal Bryant, Associate Professor at Lincoln University, about the Low-N Farmlet Trial that’s found stacking a number of N mitigations together on-farm can cut N losses by up to 50%. The multi-year study is part of the DairyNZ-led Low-N Systems research programme with studies involving the Bioeconomy Sciences Institute (formerly AgResearch), Fonterra, AbacusBio and CRV with funding also coming from the Ministry for Business Innovation and Employment (MBIE). Dr Bryant explains how modelling and onfarm measurement have been used to test combinations of lower nitrogen fertiliser rates, diverse pastures, genetics and all-grass wintering systems, revealing where significant reductions in nitrate leaching are achievable, the trade-offs with profitability (a 7% reduction in some cases), and how farmers can assess which mitigations may work best in their own systems.   Host: Anne Lee, Senior Journalist, Dairy Country Guest: Dr Racheal Bryant, Associate Professor, Lincoln University   Dr Bryant steps through how the research has played out on the ground at Lincoln University’s Research Dairy Farm, comparing modelled outcomes with real-world measurements across multiple seasons. She discusses reductions in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, farmer involvement in shaping the work, and what the findings mean for farmers as they weigh environmental targets against production, costs, profitability and long-term system resilience.   DairyNZ Low N farm systems overview: https://www.dairynz.co.nz/research/science-projects/low-n-systems/ DairyNZ link to the live farmlet data: https://connect.dairynz.co.nz/Low-N/LowN_Farmlet_Summary.html Dairy futures Living Lab: https://livinglab.codecrew.nz/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This special episode of Dairy Country, powered by MSD Animal Health, dives into how SenseHub Dairy is reshaping modern herd management through real-time insights and connected on-farm technology.  Taranaki farmer Ed Whiting shares how adopting SenseHub Dairy has transformed the way he and his family run their system, lifting animal health, streamlining decision-making, and giving them greater confidence through timely, accurate data. Alongside Ed, West Coast sharemilker Terry Swney explains how the technology supports heat detection and herd performance in a challenging climate, while South Island team leader Laura Christensen offers a behind-the-scenes look at the tools farmers are using to monitor rumination, young stock, and milk-quality trends.   Host: Sarah Perriam-Lampp, CEO, CountryWide Media Guests: Ed Whiting, Taranaki farmer Terry Swney, West Coast sharemilker Laura Christensen, South Island Sales Lead, SenseHub Dairy   Ed Whiting reflects on his journey in adopting technology on his Taranaki farm and how SenseHub Dairy has transformed the way he manages his herd. Farming a mixed operation with 400 cows, 300 beef calves, and a large free-range broiler chicken enterprise, he shares how real-time insights into heat, health, rumination, and milk quality have shaped his approach to herd management and decision-making.  He talks about integrating collars, milk meters, and young stock tags across his operation, fine-tuning feeding regimes, preventing metabolic issues, and monitoring every cow individually. Ed also discusses the value of using technology to connect his team, improve workflow, and make smarter decisions on farm, and encourages other farmers to embrace incremental steps when adopting new systems: start with one tool, learn, and expand from there.   Terry Swney reflects on stepping up to share milking on his West Coast farm and how SenseHub Dairy has helped him manage a 635-cow operation more efficiently. Operating in a low-stocking-rate, pasture-based system, he shares how collars and young stock tags have guided his approach to heat detection, animal health, and rumination, helping him make better decisions while saving time in the shed.  He talks about how the technology has allowed him to fine-tune feeding, prevent health issues, and monitor young stock development, while also highlighting the importance of reliable support and guidance from the SenseHub Dairy team. Terry encourages other farmers to adopt new systems step by step, focusing on learning and practical benefits rather than feeling overwhelmed by the data.   Laura Christensen shares her perspective as MSD Animal Health’s South Island Sales Lead for the SenseHub Dairy brand about how the technology is helping farmers across diverse environments make smarter decisions. She explains how customisable solutions from heat detection and milk monitoring to young stock tracking support herd health, reproductive performance, and feeding management, even in remote or challenging conditions. Laura also highlights the importance of ongoing support, on-farm training, and practical guidance to ensure farmers can confidently integrate technology into their systems. She encourages farmers to approach adoption step by step, focusing on meaningful insights and improvements for individual animals and overall herd performance.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The race to a net zero dairy farm is on, with Taranaki’s Net Zero Pilot Dairy Farm trialling ways to lower emissions while maintaining profitability. In this episode, Anne Lee speaks with Dr Talia Grala from Fonterra’s On-Farm Excellence team about the progress at the Net Zero Pilot Dairy Farm in Taranaki. The 250ha farm is a partnership with Nestlé and is run in conjunction with Dairy Trust Taranaki. The aim is to achieve a commercially viable net-zero system by 2032.  Host: Anne Lee, Senior Journalist, Dairy Country Guest: Dr Talia Grala, Programme Manager, Fonterra Talia outlines what’s been behind another 4.5% cut in emissions intensity to bring the total emissions intensity reduction to 9.5% compared with the baseline 2021/22 season. She talks about the impact of gains in animal efficiency, the use of sexed semen in reproduction, the benefits of improving animal health and the increase in production resulting from a shift back to twice-a-day milking after using a flexible milking regime the previous season. Talia explains the impact on total emissions of the increased production along with the effect of supplement type. A trial of the EcoPond technology on the farm last season showed it slashed methane emissions from effluent by about 97% and the farm will scale up the use of the technology this season. Talia also shares more about the farm’s innovative silvopasture trial where trees are planted in a grid-like pattern across grazed pasture.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

North Canterbury dairy farmer Stuart Neill, winner of the 2025 Canterbury Supreme Award at the Ballance Farm Environment Awards, reflects on the long-term changes that have shaped his business. Farming 200 hectares near Culverden, he has built a resilient, pasture-focused system anchored in simplicity, environmental stewardship, and strong people management. In this episode, Anne Lee speaks with Stuart about the journey behind the award, the evolution of irrigation on the farm, and the environmental gains from redesigning old tile drains and restoring waterways. They also discuss flexible milking, building a system that works for both cows and staff, and his message to other farmers: meaningful change happens when you’re willing to step back, rethink, and keep improving.   Host: Anne Lee, Senior Journalist, Dairy Country Guest: Stuart Neill, 2025 Canterbury Supreme Award Winner   Stuart Neill reflects on his journey as a North Canterbury dairy farmer and celebrates winning the Supreme Award at the 2025 Canterbury Ballance Farm Environment Awards. Farming on The Mound, he shares how managing 200 fully irrigated hectares with a focus on grass-based milk production, sustainable irrigation, and innovative pasture management has shaped his approach to farm leadership. He talks about the environmental initiatives that have defined his career, from converting border-dyked paddocks to spray irrigation, improving water quality through open drains and strategic plantings, to adopting a 10 (milkings)-in-seven (days) flexible milking system that balances cow health, reproduction, and staff wellbeing. Stuart also reflects on the importance of people, from building the Amuri Employers Group to mentoring staff and fostering strong partnerships, and offers insight into creating a resilient, profitable, and environmentally responsible farm system.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Global supply shifts and changing demand are shaping the outlook for New Zealand dairy prices, according to NZX Dairy Insights Head, Cristina Alvarado, fresh from the SGX-NZX Global Dairy Seminar in Singapore and International Dairy Federation World Dairy Summit in Santiago, Chile. Anne Lee speaks with Cristina, she shares what global trends could mean for milk prices in the months ahead. In this episode, Anne Lee speaks with Cristina about the latest Global Dairy Trade (GDT) results, softening dairy fats prices, seasonal supply impacts, and growing international interest in New Zealand dairy trade. They also discuss sustainability trends and the global supply chain factors influencing international milk prices.   Host: Anne Lee, Senior Journalist, Dairy Country Guest: Cristina Alvarado, Head of Dairy Insights, NZX   Cristina Alvarado shares insights from her recent trips to Singapore and South America, and her observations on global dairy markets as supply continues to grow in key regions. She explains how attending the SGX- NZX Global Dairy Seminar and the International Dairy Federation World Dairy Summit highlighted shifting buyer behaviour, sustainability initiatives, and the growing demand for protein-rich and high-quality dairy products. Cristina also outlines trends in global milk pricing, supply and demand dynamics, and how these factors may influence New Zealand’s milk price outlook.   She discusses the importance of New Zealand’s reputation for stable, high-quality dairy exports, the role of international trade relationships, and the strategic focus on ingredient markets and product innovation. Looking ahead, she emphasises monitoring global market signals, understanding evolving consumer and buyer trends, and positioning New Zealand dairy for long-term resilience and value.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Simple, repeatable systems are proving to be a winning formula for North Otago couple Peter and Emma Smit. They spoke at a Pasture Summit field day earlier this year and shared just what those systems entail and how they achieve top-performing financial returns.  In this episode, Anne Lee speaks with Peter about the low cost, pasture focused system that keeps their costs down and profitability high. The Smits have refined their approach to pasture management, focusing on residuals, grass quality, and a low stocking rate to maintain resilience through varying payouts. They also discuss their strategic mating plan, long term team stability, and how small, well executed changes continue to lift efficiency across the farm.   Host: Anne Lee, Senior Journalist, Dairy Country Guest: Peter Smit, Papakaio   Peter Smit shares how a decade of development on his Papakaio farm in North Otago has shaped a simple, efficient system built for resilience and low costs. He explains how irrigation upgrades, layout changes, and pasture management, focused on quality, have contributed to strong financial performance and keeping farm working expenses low. Peter also outlines their low stocking rate approach. He discusses the farm’s two-herd mating strategy, achieving a six-week in-calf rate of 78%, and the value of a stable, experienced team in maintaining consistency. Looking ahead, he says the focus is on continuing incremental improvements, adapting with seasonal conditions, and keeping the system practical, sustainable, and efficient across all aspects of the farm.   Read the article featuring the Smits here.   For a copy of the field day handout https://www.pasturesummit.co.nz/2025-autumn-events and check out details for the upcoming spring events for the North and South Islands.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.