Public articles

Calculating Feed Conversion Efficiency is a key metric for understanding overall farm efficiency as it reflects how efficiently feed is converted into milksolids, directly influencing productivity, profitability and emissions. Words Sheryl Haitana.

Having daily information on individual cow health has enabled Taranaki dairy farmers Sarah and Wayne Neilson to turn on the engine of their genetically capable cows and get them back in calf more easily. Words Sheryl Haitana.

The New Zealand dairy industry has made great progress but still has a fair way to go to get farmers to stop using antibiotics prophylactically and instead use them selectively for a cow with a proven and identified infection, veterinarian and DairySmart Chief Executive Ben Davidson says. Words Sheryl Haitana.

Trying to achieve a successful succession story can be difficult for the younger generation who may feel they have no control over the decisions being made.

Autumn is the time to look forward and begin planning for next season. One of the most important targets is pasture eaten and what you do now, in terms of pasture renewal, is key to making sure you have the feed available. Anne Lee finds out how you make a great pasture renewal plan.

With the dairy and beef market both looking positive for 2025, beef finishers will be looking for quality dairy beef genetics to buy. The proof behind those genetics starts with an ear tag. Words Sheryl Haitana.

In this episode, we discuss pregnancy scanning results across the country, with some farmers reporting low not-in-calf rates. We also explore the importance of planning for next season’s mating, selecting the right bull team, and how advancements in breeding technology, including sexed semen, are helping farmers improve herd efficiency and productivity.

Historically, whole-fat dairy products were stigmatised due to their saturated fat content, but emerging research suggests a more nuanced understanding of their impact on heart health.

This episode we take a deep dive into the changes affecting rising insurance premiums and advice on how to navigate the changes including a new insurance model called parametric insurance that will help farmers insure in the face of extreme weather events.

In this episode, we explore the rise in global dairy prices underpinned by China’s expanding appetite for our dairy products with growing demand for high-protein foods. We also discuss the economic impact of trade tensions and how farmers can navigate this market volatility. Plus, the importance of future policy settings in the face of an unpredictable global landscape.

Johne’s disease is a devastating disease for farmers to deal with, however, it is not uncommon. In this episode learn more about what you can do as a farmer to manage, prevent, and treat Johne’s disease if it pops up on your farm, and what conversations to be having with your vet.

Managing physical and mental health is constantly becoming more important in our day to day lives. In this episode hear from food scientist and nutritionist, Dr. Anneline Padayachee about the importance of nutrition from dairy. We also hear from Kathryn Wright, a registered rural councillor, about how to work towards goals and focus on the positive.