AI – not Artificial Insemination … the new buzz is Artificial Intelligence. Waikato sharemilker Matthew Zonderop has adopted the technology in his farming business. Words Sheryl Haitana.

There are three guiding mantras at Beaumaris Dairies in Canterbury – pride, cash and simplification. Words & photos Anne Lee.

Braden Coates and Hayley Ireland have always strived for excellence in everything that they do and last season they achieved a tick of excellence from their milk processor Miraka earning a 20c/kg MS premium. It’s a nice bit of cream on top for their 2023/24 season payout, but the young couple have overcome a lot more than most to rise to the top. Words Sheryl Haitana, Photos Emma McCarthy.

With a record milk price in farmers’ sights, the idea of hanging up the clusters and switching off the milking plant in favour of carrying out some other activity on their land seems nonsensical for all but a couple of higher-risk yet high-returning horticultural activities. Words Anne Lee.

Bay of Plenty dairy farmer and kiwifruit orchard owner David Jensen has experienced the ups and downs of both industries and shares some insights for those farmers who are thinking about investing in horticulture. Words David Jensen.

Canterbury is known for going it big when it comes to dairy – the same now looks true for apples. Words Anne lee.

Canterbury and Otago are on the radar for horticulture companies with access to water and flat land along with the right climate and soil characteristics making the regions attractive. Word Anne lee.

Solar farming is a fast-growing part of New Zealand’s energy sector and could be an opportunity for farmers to diversify their income. A Massey University presentation at AgInnovation explored the possibilities for solar farming to co-exist with sheep grazing, providing two sources of income per unit of land area, and crunched the numbers on the returns. Words Rebecca Greaves.

When the summer dry dents milk production on the unirrigated river flats, a solar farm on the upper terrace is making good use of the sun’s rays for a Golden Bay family. Words Anne Hardie.

Vigilant analysis, strategic decisions and sacrifices are behind the success of Waikato dairy farmers Dan and Gina Duncan. Words Sheryl Haitana.