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DairyNZ is back at Fieldays, featuring the “industry-good” organisation’s science and expertise, plus interactive displays.
“This year, we’re all about ‘Innovate, Integrate and Collaborate’, showcasing how our research and partnerships are helping shape resilient, future-fit farm systems,” said Campbell Parker, DairyNZ chief executive.
“Whether you’re keen to hear about the latest science, connect with sector leaders, or explore hands-on tools to take back to the farm, there’s something for everyone.”
Dairy NZ’s main stand in The Pavilion (site PC44) at Fieldays would highlight the organisation’s key research, including:
–Improved forage gains – See and compare forage species in a display model, and discover more about their resilience under stress, and how improved forages can enhance feed efficiency, profitability, and resilience on-farm.
–Healthy waterways – Farmers can learn about practical tools and actions to enhance waterways and go in the draw to win $1500 worth of plants. They can also immerse themselves in a virtual reality kayak journey through the Pōkaiwhenua Catchment and experience the positive impact that partnership and a focus on waterway health can create. The Pokaiwhenua Stream, a tributary of the Waikato River, runs from Karapiro to south of Tokoroa.
–Greenhouse gas emissions – Farmers can gain clarity on this complex topic and hear about the top actions they can take to help reduce emissions on-farm, while considering a full farm system to maintain profitability.
Parker said DairyNZ specialists, board members and its leadership team would be at Fieldays to answer questions and chat about how the organisation was working to ensure New Zealand dairy thrived well into the future.
Farmers’ Levy
DairyNZ funding comes from a levy paid by farmers who supply milk to dairy companies.
This was used for research, development, biosecurity, and other initiatives that support the New Zealand dairy industry.
DairyNZ set a new levy rate of 4.5 cents per kilogram of milksolids – up from 3.6 cents – from June 1 and aimed to keep the levy at no more than this rate for a minimum of three years.
Parker said the decision to adjust the levy for the first time in 16 years followed a comprehensive consultation with farmers where DairyNZ held meetings across the country and received more than 1500 formal feedback submissions.
“The new rate will allow DairyNZ to continue supporting the country’s dairy farmers to lift profitability and sustainability through science and research, policy advocacy, and extension behind the farm-gate,” he said.
“DairyNZ is the only organisation that supports dairy farmers with independent scientific research for our sector alone, therefore we’re committed to delivering the right science in the right way on-farm and proving its value every step of the way.”
“Our vision is to ensure the levy is the best investment of every New Zealand dairy farmer,” he said. “This commitment underpins everything we do.”
Parker said farmers could be confident DairyNZ would continue to back them with the right tools and support to ensure they have a positive future and could grow their businesses.
In line with its strategy reset last year, he said DairyNZ was working to collaborate better with partners to reduce duplication, strengthen policy advocacy to ensure practical and enduring settings for farmers, deliver smarter, targeted science by focusing on applied research that provides on-farm benefits, and rolling out improved extension events to lift on-farm support, with a renewed focus on more isolated regions.
Bright Future
“The future of dairy is bright, but that future depends on a strong industry-good body backing dairy farmers, working alongside them, and getting out in front of challenges,” said Parker.
“Farmers heading to Fieldays could also catch up with the team at Dairy Training, a DairyNZ subsidiary, (site PB49 in The Pavilion) and talk about free, NZQA-accredited practical training options to upskill farm owners and staff.”
Parker said DairyNZ realised that getting off-farm was not easy, so they’re making a visit worthwhile by collaborating with other sector organisations to have multiple sites packed with value.
“This reflects our focus on partnership and integration, and the wide range of work we do to support farmers—on farm, across the industry, and for the future.”
He said farmers attending Fieldays could also find DairyNZ at the Ministry for Primary Industries’ Science for Farmers tent (E38), showcasing science projects supporting the future of dairy farming.
At the Federated Farmers’ Advocacy Hub (D70, Gallagher Building), DairyNZ is highlighting its work advocating to Government ministers and MPs on key dairy sector issues.
“We can’t wait to connect with you at Fieldays 2025,” said Parker. “Whether you’re looking to explore innovation, dive deeper into science, or simply have a good conversation with people who get it, DairyNZ looks forward to connecting with you.”
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