Dairy Exporter Autumn 2025

In this episode, DairyNZ scientist Dr Kirsty Verhoek explains how heat stress affects cow comfort and productivity, and how the Grazing Heat Load Index (GHLI) improves on traditional measures like the Temperature Humidity Index. Dr Paul Edwards discusses how GHLI, combined with digital technologies, helps farmers identify regional heat stress risks and take timely action. Dr Roshean Woods introduces a new bulk milk urea (BMU) tool that provides near real-time insights into dietary nitrogen surplus, helping farmers optimise herd health and reduce nitrogen loss. Together, they highlight how these tools support farm resilience and sustainability in a changing climate.

In this episode, Sam Mander, director of AgriIntel, walks listeners through the New Zealand’s Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS), giving a 101 on the scheme and outlining its opportunities for farmers. He discusses carbon credits, forestry models, and earning NZUs, including how to earn NZU’s from agroforestry and riparian planting. Sam highlights the financial and environmental benefits of understanding the ETS and how it can help farmers navigate the future of low-emissions agriculture. Anne Lee also recently attended SIDE where she spoke to Cameron Bagrie about American President Donald Trump’s recent tariffs and how economic stability will look heading into the future.

Plantings on under-utilised or low-productivity areas can provide income, create value and improve environmental outcomes. Words Anne Lee.

Despite polarising views, the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) is set to remain a cornerstone of New Zealand’s climate strategy for the foreseeable future. Words Sam Mander.

There can be a power imbalance when a farm owner and potential contract milker or sharemilker sit down at a table to negotiate their contract, still both parties will benefit more from a fair negotiation. Words Sheryl Haitana.

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.

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.

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