DAIRY Country

Dr Ajmal Khan has spent more than a decade researching calf rearing, investigating how early-life nutrition and management influence the health, productivity and lifetime performance of dairy animals. Anne Lee speaks with the Bioeconomy Science Institute scientist about his latest research into colostrum management, milk feeding and pre-weaning growth, and why getting those first days and weeks right can have lasting benefits for calf health, milk production, longevity and farm profitability. Host: Anne Lee, Senior Journalist, Dairy Country Guest: Dr Ajmal Khan, Bioeconomy Science Institute   Ajmal explains why collecting calves early and feeding high-quality "gold" colostrum is critical for successful passive transfer of immunity, before sharing findings from his long-term New Zealand research that followed calves through their first four lactations as cows. Anne and Ajmal also discuss the importance of feeding adequate milk during the pre-weaning period, the impact of early growth rates on lifetime milk production, practical weaning strategies and the role of automatic calf feeders. Together they explore how small management decisions during a calf's first weeks can deliver significant gains in animal welfare, productivity, profitability and environmental outcomes.   Sign up to the weekly DAIRY Country email newsletter here: https://dairycountry.co.nz/sign-up/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Extended lactation is emerging as a potential option for dairy farmers looking to reduce labour pressure, improve flexibility and significantly cut the number of non-replacement calves being born each year. Anne Lee speaks with DairyNZ senior scientist Dr Paul Edwards about the research behind the system and the results emerging from farmlet trials at Scott Farm and a new study in Northland. Host: Anne Lee, Senior Journalist, Dairy Country Guest: Dr Paul Edwards, Senior Scientist, DairyNZ   Paul explains how a 24-month calving interval works in a pasture-based system, where half the herd calves in alternate springs, and discusses its impacts on milk production, feed demand, profitability and cow performance. He also shares insights into the opportunities extended lactation could create for replacement rates and beef-on-dairy, and why researchers believe the system is worth continuing to explore as a future option for some New Zealand dairy farmers.   Sign up to the weekly DAIRY Country email newsletter here: https://dairycountry.co.nz/sign-up/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

West Coast dairy farmer Charlotte Aitken has taken an unconventional path to farm ownership, moving from a career in international banking in London to running her own dairy farm near Karamea. Anne Lee speaks with Charlotte about her journey into dairy farming, the financial discipline that underpins her business and the management decisions that have helped her build a profitable farming operation. Host: Anne Lee, Senior Journalist, Dairy Country Guest: Charlotte Aitken, West Coast Dairy Farmer   Charlotte discusses how she transitioned into the dairy industry later in life, working her way through farm roles before purchasing her own farm on the West Coast of the South Island. She explains how her background in finance influences the way she manages costs, production and investment decisions, and shares insights into breeding strategies, facial eczema management and maximising value from every calf born on the farm. Charlotte also talks about adopting virtual fencing technology, trialling new ideas and why she believes innovation and a willingness to challenge conventional thinking are key to long-term success. Read the article from the Autumn 2026 issue of DAIRY Country here: https://dairycountry.co.nz/from-banking-billions-to-dairying-dream/ Sign up to the weekly DAIRY Country email newsletter here: https://dairycountry.co.nz/sign-up/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) is one of the most serious biosecurity threats facing livestock industries worldwide, with South Africa’s recent outbreak highlighting the devastating impact it can have on commercial dairy farms. In this episode, Anne Lee speaks with Georgie Muller, Steve Moss and Andrew Morphew about the rapid spread of the disease, its impact on dairy businesses and the urgent need for coordinated vaccine programmes and national response planning. Host: Anne Lee, Senior Journalist, Dairy Country Guests: Steve Moss, Sharefarmer and Hub Manager overseeing seven dairy farms for management company Just Milk Georgie Muller, Dairy Junction and Pinion Advisory Andrew Morphew, Colbourne Farming and spokesperson for FMD Response South Africa   Georgie Muller explains how Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) has historically been contained to specific endemic regions in South Africa, but in recent years has spread into major commercial dairy areas with severe consequences for farmers. She says the virus is difficult to control because it is present in wild and communally owned animal populations. Once in dairy herds it spreads rapidly, causing mastitis, lameness, calf losses and major production challenges. Georgie says this latest, large-scale outbreak has hit farmers hard, and highlighted gaps when it comes to the roll out of vaccination programme across large communal and commercial farming regions. Steve Moss shares firsthand experience from his dairy businesses after FMD spread through several of their farms earlier this year. He says the outbreak caused catastrophic calf losses, widespread mastitis and major milk production declines, while also placing enormous emotional and physical pressure on farm staff and management teams. Steve says vaccination has shown promising results in reducing the severity of outbreaks, but ongoing vaccine shortages and delays continue to leave many farms exposed to further infections. Andrew Morphew says FMD Response South Africa was established as a farmer-led organisation to push for faster, more coordinated action from government and industry. He says the current vaccination rollout is not happening quickly enough to effectively control the disease and argues South Africa needs large-scale vaccination campaigns completed within tight timeframes to reduce viral spread. Andrew says farmers, private veterinarians and industry groups all need to play a role in the response if the country is to regain control of the outbreak and protect the long-term future of its livestock industries.   Sign up to the weekly DAIRY Country email newsletter here: https://dairycountry.co.nz/sign-up/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cow prices and livestock values are front of mind across the dairy sector right now, with strong market demand, rising confidence and shifting tax implications all shaping decisions for farmers buying, selling or expanding herds. In this episode of the Dairy Country podcast, Anne Lee speaks with Chris Lewis from BakerAg, Jamie Cunninghame, National Dairy Specialist at PGG Wrightson, and Trudi Ballantyne from Stem Rural about what’s driving current cow values, what it means for farm business decisions, and why understanding both market conditions and tax settings is becoming increasingly important. Host: Anne Lee, Senior Journalist, Dairy Country Guests: Trudi Ballantyne, Stem Rural Chris Lewis, BakerAg Jamie Cunninghame, PGG Wrightson   Chris Lewis says confidence is strong across the sector, underpinned by solid milk returns, strong beef prices and relatively favourable feed costs. He says demand is currently being driven largely by farmers looking to top up herds with smaller numbers of quality cows, rather than full herd purchases, while strong prices are also encouraging trading activity. Chris adds that high cow values are creating equity-building opportunities for existing owners and share milkers, but careful attention to debt levels and downside risk remains essential. Jamie Cunninghame, National Dairy Specialist at PGG Wrightson, says the market was sparked early by conversion demand and has remained consistently firm through the season, with strong competition for quality cows. He says good in-calf heifers and dairy cows are generally trading between $2800 and $3300 a head, with occasional higher outliers depending on quality and scale. Jamie also notes that strong cull cow and beef schedules are helping underpin overall confidence, while farmers who build into larger operations progressively tend to carry less risk than those entering through full herd purchases at current prices. Trudi Ballantyne from Stem Rural says rising cow values make livestock accounting and tax planning increasingly important, particularly when it comes to understanding the National Standard Cost Scheme versus the herd scheme. She steps listeners through both schemes and explains that the scheme a farmer is on, along with the timing of livestock sales, can have a significant impact on tax outcomes, especially in periods of rising values. Trudi stresses that working with an accountant who truly understands livestock valuation is critical, as incorrect treatment or poor timing decisions can lead to unexpected and potentially large tax liabilities.   Sign up to the weekly DAIRY Country email newsletter here: https://dairycountry.co.nz/sign-up/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.