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SUDESH KISSUN sudeshk@ruralnews.co.nz
KEEP FOCUSED on things that be controlled on farm.
That’s the message from Federated Farmers dairy section chair Karl Dean as farmers come to terms with a seventh straight drop in dairy prices on the Global Dairy Trade (GDT) platform.
“We can’t control the milk price, so we just need to keep focusing on the things we can control on farm,” Dean told Dairy News
Last week’s GDT auction recorded the seventh straight drop in the price index – the 3% drop, the second largest among the seven drops. Whole milk powder prices, primary determinant of Fonterra’s farmgate milk price, has seen six consecutive drops. Six months ago, WMP price was around US$4374/MT; last week’s overnight auction saw the WMP price drop to US$3452/ MT.
Dean says that no dairy farmer likes to wake up in the morning to see the GDT prices have dropped.
“But I don’t think anyone will be surprised to see what’s happening,” he says.
“When you look at historic trends, dairy prices and other commodities always work in cycles. Record highs can’t last forever – even if we wish they could.’
Dean doesn’t think farmers need to worry yet and should continue to keep on top of things they can control.
“A big part of that will be keeping on top of costs where we can, paying down some debt, and investing in the resilience of our farms during the good times.”
The drop in global dairy prices is being
attributed to record global milk production, spurred by high farmgate milk prices.
NZX head of dairy insights Cristina Alvarado says strong milk production across the US, EU, Argentina and New Zealand continues to support ample availability of milk powders.
She believes buyers remain focused on handto-mouth purchasing rather than stock-building, which is keeping price pressure contained but persistent.
“Milk availability is expected to remain solid in the near term, adding further pressure to prices if demand does not strengthen,” Alvarado says.
Dean attributes the jump in milk production to “just the dairy cycle in action”.
“When prices go up, we usually see a corresponding lift in production internationally – including here in New Zealand,” he says.
“Those big international producers really start pumping feed into their systems to take advantage of the higher prices, but eventually we reach a tipping point.
“What we’re starting to see now are early signs that global prices, where they have higher costs of production, are falling quicker than we’ve seen here in NZ.”
New Zealand dairy farmers might drop production a little bit, but most will just keep farming as the local climate and grass growth allows, says Dean.
“With our pasture-based systems, production isn’t tied as closely to international prices as other countries who feed a lot of grain or other feed in their systems.
“Those farmers have a lot more levers to pull to lift production as prices allow but can also dial down production quickly when prices soften.”
Fonterra is forecasting a farmgate milk price range of $9 to $11/kgMS with $10 as the midpoint. However, the string of price drops on GDT is expected to put downward pressure on the forecast milk price.
Dean expects the mid-point to come down and the range to narrow when Fonterra updates its forecast.
He is urging farmers to keep a close eye on how international commodity prices are tracking and anticipate a drop in the milk price.
“At this point in the cycle it’s all about just focusing on the things you can control within your business, keeping a lid on costs, and making changes to your budget early.”
has a range of $9 to $11/ kgMS, with a midpoint of $10/kgMS.
THE CHANCE of a $10plus milk price for this season appears to be depleting.
According to BNZ senior economist Doug Steel, if current market conditions remain the same for the rest of the season a milk price around the mid-$9s could be expected.
“While a lift in global milk production is no surprise, the pace of it from major producing regions has been rapid and earlier than implicitly assumed in our base case,” says Steel. More milk puts downward pressure on this season’s milk price forecasts in NZ. Fonterra
But Steel says the chance of more than $10/kgMS for Fonterra’s 2025/26 milk price appears to be depleting.
“Some improvement in GDT prices would seem necessary from here to achieve a $10 milk price.”
“Some improvement in GDT prices would seem necessary from here to achieve a $10 milk price or a meaningfully lower
effective NZ dollar than we have assumed.”
Earlier in the dairy season BNZ had a point forecast of $9.50/kgMS for Fonterra’s milk price for the 2025/26 season. A few months ago, it was lifted to $10.25 as the global milk production response to previous price strength was modest and some offshore production was hindered by disease.
But Steel says supply conditions have clearly changed.
With evidence that the global production response has ramped up significantly BNZ is reverting to its lower milk price point forecast of $9.50 for the 2025/26 season as a reflection of current risks.
The bank says its milk price thinking for the
Auckland Stephen Pollard Phone 021-963 166 Waikato & Wellington Lisa Wise Phone 027-369 9218 Christchurch Kaye Sutherland Phone 021-221 1994
following 2026/27 season remains lower than 2025/26, toward $9.
“This broad view has long been predicated on global supply responding to previous price strength. If global milk supply expansion remains rapid, like it has on occasion in the past, and demand doesn’t strengthen sufficiently, the risk of a sharper drop and sub-$9 milk price next season will increase.
“Current momentum is in that direction. Conversely, if global supply expansion were to slow meaningfully, like it did in 2021, downward price pressure could quickly fade.
“On that possibility, it is notable that global dairy prices no longer look elevated relative to
global grain prices. A relatively low effective NZD conversion rate would offer some support to local milk prices.”
DOUG STEEL says the bounds around any milk price forecast remain wide.
As the past three months has shown, supply conditions can change rapidly and need to be continuously monitored, he says.
“Ditto demand, foreign exchange, and trade conditions. Many outcomes remain possible, but it is important to acknowledge the current downward pressure on prices and risks from rapidly expanding global milk supply.”
He says a $9.50 milk price in 2025/26 would be a solid outcome, albeit lower than the prior season’s $10.16/kgMS.
“On an inflation-adjusted basis, a $9.50 milk price outcome would still sit above its long-term average,” he says.
“NZ dairy sector revenue this season also looks to be supported by more production. Early season NZ milk production has been strong. The prospect of a La Nina weather pattern affecting milk flows is on the risk radar to monitor over coming months. It is one of many on the radar worth watching closely.”
together to bring our menu to life,” says Kylie Freeland, managing director NZ and Pacific Islands.
“Our favourites are served in minutes, but each ingredient reflects months, even years, of local growing, farming, and careful preparation. It’s a story of dedication and collaboration long before the food reaches the tray.”
Kiwi produce is so good that Macca’s also exported over $287 million worth of local ingredients to McDonald’s markets worldwide. This included 265,600kg of cheese.
THE GLOBAL agricultural landscape has entered a new phase where geopolitics – not only traditional market forces – will dictate agricultural trade flows, prices, and production decisions.
That’s according to Rabobank’s Agri Commodity Outlook 2026 report. It describes a world where agricultural commodity exports have become “pawns on a geopolitical chessboard” between two spheres of influence - China and the United States - that both serve as crucial export destinations for New Zealand.
With trade wars reshaping long-standing
production and exporting patterns, Rabobank head of agri commodity markets research Carlos Mera said that agriculture was now playing by geopolitical as well as supply-and-demand rules.
“[For example] before the Trump-Xi agreement, Brazil’s soy export prices benefitted from strong Chinese demand while US prices were heavily depressed. Since the announcement of the agreement US and Brazil soybean prices have come closer together, but given that we still see a lot of trade barriers ahead, more price differences are likely.
“Farmers, traders, and policymakers must prepare for a world where trade is disrupted, regional prices fluctuate and the
unexpected is now the baseline. Geopolitical fragmentation and government intervention has redefined global agriculture.”
Initial trade conflicts that began with tariffs have evolved into a global subsidy race with governments intensifying agricultural support programmes through direct payments, minimum price guarantees and biofuel mandates.
General manager for RaboResearch New Zealand and Australia Stefan Vogel said this widespread protection has muted the reaction of farmers to low prices.
“New Zealand’s trade with the US and China is going strong, benefiting farmgate prices. New Zealand will be hoping
to fly largely under the geopolitical radar again in 2026.”
Despite trade tension, global growth in 2025 exceeded expectations supported by monetary easing, lower energy prices and frontloading of exports ahead of tariff hikes.
However, these mitigating factors will fade, with the negative effects of tariffs and uncertainty (such as widening price gaps between producing nations) likely to surface in 2026.
Rabobank forecasts global GDP growth at 2.9% in 2025, easing to 2.7% in 2026. While trade between major blocs will likely slow, intraregional trade could rise due to diversion. Inflationary pressures are expected to
persist in some regions but will likely be less severe than previously projected.
Meanwhile, the tariff war’s unintended effects are still being corrected, with US authorities reviewing tariffs on
ASHBURTON CROPPING and dairy
farmer Matthew Paton has been elected to the board of rural services company, Ruralco.
Paton, a long-time Ruralco shareholder, saw off a challenge from two other candidates - Mid Canterbury farmers, Richard Fitzgerald and Cole Groves. Sitting
director Rhea Booker was re-elected for another term.
Paton is appreciative of those who voted for him and thanked the other candidates for standing and helping to create “a real buzz” around the election process.
“I’m looking forward to helping build on the positive result
announced today and growing the business in the coming years.”
He says the board is made of up of talented directors and he is looking forward to working with them.
This year’s director election saw a 50% increase on voter returns compared to previous elections in 2021 and 2022.
products the country does not produce –like coffee and cocoa –which could ease costs for US consumers and restore trade flows from producing nations.
Milk production in most key global dairy-
Ruralco chair Sir David Carter says he’s thrilled that shareholders took such an active part in the vote.
“It was very pleasing to see such a high calibre of candidates wanting to join the Ruralco board, which is a vote of confidence in what we are doing, and another indicator of the increased support we are seeing from
exporting regions is growing with a velocity outperforming RaboResearch’s previous expectations. These gains are expected to maintain momentum into 2026, though the pace will moderate.
our shareholders,” says Carter. Booker, a Mid Canterbury chartered accountant, is also in equity partnership of a small dry stock farm and calf rearing operation with her husband James. She has been on the board since 2022 and is the current chair of the audit and risk committee.
all of it.
So you can trust that the time, energy and care that you put into producing your milk is met with a Co-op-wide commitment to providing the same level of care in making the most of every drop.
Your milk. Your long-term best interests. Your Co-op.
SUDESH KISSUN
sudeshk@ruralnews.co.nz
FONTERRA DIRECTORS
and councillors are in for a pay rise next month.
If approved by Fonterra shareholders at their annual general meeting in Christchurch on December 11, co-op chair Peter McBride’s fees will top $500,000.
Fees for Fonterra directors and councillors are set by the directors’ remuneration committee (DRC), made up of six elected shareholders. The committee met in July and is recommending a rise in fees paid to directors and councillors.
It is proposing a 3% rise in the chair’s fee, an increase to $513,000, up $15,000. Directors’ fees would also increase 3% to $208,000, up $6,000.
A board committee chair, unless that person is the board or
audit, finance and risk committee chair, would get an extra $40,000, up by 4% or $1,500. The audit, finance and risk committee chair’s fee increases by $2,000 to $55,000.
For Fonterra Cooperative Council members, the committee proposes the chair’s annual allowance rise 3% or $4,000 to $132,000.
THE FONTERRA Cooperative Council is seeking approval for an annual budget of $3.5 million.
The proposed budget, which will be voted at the co-op’s annual meeting next month, seeks $2.7 million for operating
Each of the 24 remaining councillors would be paid $42,500, an increase of 3.65% or $1,500.
The DRC says it considered whether current remuneration levels were appropriate to ensure highlyskilled directors were attracted and retained on the board, noting the substantial director workload.
“The DRC confirmed that small incremental annual increases in fees continued to be its preferred approach, rather than having periods of no increase
costs for financial year 2026 and $788,000 for other costs contributed to or met by the council.
Last year Fonterra shareholders approved a budget of $3.37m; actual costs incurred were $3.135 million - 93% of budget.
followed by large uplifts,” according to Fonterra’s annual meeting notice.
“The DRC determined that the appropriate level of an increase to recommend was approximately 3%.”
Members of the DRC are also getting a pay rise, determined by Fonterra’s board.
The board is recommending that the DRC chair’s fee increases by $100 to $3,100 per annum. Members are to get an extra $50 or $1,850 annually.
A SERIES of meetings get underway this week, giving Fonterra shareholders the chance to meet the director candidates.
The five in-person meetings and two online meetings will also allow the three candidates to answer shareholder questions.
Chaired by the Fonterra Cooperative Council, these meetings provide a setting in which candidates meet with and answer questions from Fonterra shareholders with a focus on explaining how their governance skills and attributes meet the requirements of the co-op, Fonterra says.
Three candidates are vying for two board seats: Sitting director Alison Watters and corporate farmers Michelle Pye and Mike Fleming.
Michelle Pye and her husband Leighton own Pye Group, a large-scale agricultural
business based in Canterbury, for over 23 years. They farm over 7,000 hectares with dairy, cropping, process vegetable, grazing, transport and contracting operations. Pye Group’s dairy business consists of 10 farms producing 4.5 million milk solids with a further three farms to be added to the group next season.
Mike Fleming chairs Fortuna Group Ltd and is a director of Canterbury Grasslands Ltd – both large scale dairy businesses and is also a director of Better Eggs Ltd. Alison Watters and her family own a fifth-generation dairy farm in Wairarapa, milking 510 cows. She and her husband, Andrew, were named NZ Sharemilker of the Year in 2003.
In addition to her role as a Fonterra director, she’s chair of Comhla Vet Limited, and of Totally Vets Limited.
RICHARD MCINTYRE
IT WAS the best of times, it was the worst of times.
For many farmers, things are finally looking a little brighter. Commodity prices have lifted, interest rates have eased, and for some, the Fonterra divestment will bring a welcome cash boost. After several challenging years, it’s a relief to feel the pressure ease — even just a little.
On-farm, resilience doesn’t always require big, headline investments. Often it’s the quiet, practical choices that make the greatest difference.
And when that pressure lifts, it’s only natural to take a breather. We catch up on the jobs we’ve put aside, tidy up around the place, and maybe even treat ourselves. That’s human nature.
But the recent storms that swept across the country were a sharp reminder of how quickly things can change. One moment, everything feels under control, and the next, we’re dealing with flooded paddocks, power outages, and fallen trees.
I’ve heard a few stories since then — some light-hearted, others not so much — about new boats sitting in sheds while the generator still hasn’t been sorted. As the old saying goes, it’s easier to fix the roof when the sun is shining.
Every farm carries risk, though the shape of that risk looks different for each of us. For one farmer, it might be weather; for another, interest rates, staffing, compliance, or succession. No two farms are the same, but we all share a common responsibility: setting ourselves up so the tough years don’t hit as hard — and the good ones can be fully used.
Resilience isn’t just about surviving the next storm. It’s about building businesses that can thrive through change; businesses that are competitive, adaptable, and ready for the future. Markets will shift. Technology will evolve. Expectations from processors, banks, and consumers will continue to rise. Standing still simply isn’t an option.
On-farm, resilience doesn’t always require big, headline investments. Often it’s the quiet, practical choices that make the greatest difference: securing a reliable generator, improving water storage, keeping extra supplement on hand, or paying down debt while the numbers line up. These decisions don’t make the front page, but they build a foundation of strength that pays off when pressure returns.
Sometimes resilience is simply about creating enough of a buffer that decisions can be made with clarity rather than panic. Breathing room — financial, operational, or mental — allows us to respond with purpose instead of reacting in haste.
And resilience isn’t just about infrastructure or finances. People are at the heart of it. Well-trained staff, clear systems, and opportunities for growth empower teams to perform under pressure and see a future in farming. Many of us are also thinking ahead to the next generation; how and
• Detach
when to hand over the reins. Planning early makes that transition smoother and gives everyone confidence in the road ahead.
None of us have the perfect plan, and that’s okay. What matters is starting the conversation. Often, the best ideas come from collaboration — a chat with a consultant, banker, vet, or neighbour can spark new thinking or highlight opportunities we hadn’t seen. Resilience grows stronger when it’s shared.
By taking these steps early, we’re not only securing our own farms — we’re strengthening the backbone of
New Zealand’s rural economy. When more of us are prepared for volatility, whether it’s in weather or markets, the entire supply chain becomes more stable, efficient, and trusted.
Over time, this creates a sector that’s known globally for its reliability, adaptability, and foresight. It positions us to meet new regulations, respond to changing consumer demands, and stay productive and profitable. We can’t predict the future — but we can shape it, one farm, one family, and one decision at a time.
So, while the sun is shining, ask yourself, what small steps today will
make life easier tomorrow? Because every thoughtful investment – in infrastructure, in people, in planning – builds a stronger future for all of us. Preparing together doesn’t just strengthen our own operations; it strengthens our communities, our industry, and the generations who will one day take our place on the land.
• Richard McIntyre is a Horowhenua farmer, former Federated Farmers dairy chair and is a director of DairyNZ.
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MILKING IT reckons New Zealand should take a bow after winning the ‘Fossil of the Day’ award at COP30 in Brazil over recent improvements to our methane targets. Oblivious to the irony of an auditorium full of COP30 attendees who had all burned many tonnes of aviation fuel to attend the blow-fest, they have attempted to shame nations like ours for what they see as inaction. These hypocrites think the same way as Greenpeace, who misrepresent the science around methane emissions as “an accounting trick”, determined as they are to kill dairy farming. On the contrary, our government should be commended for not caving in to pressure to knobble our industry and economy based purely on blind ideology. In fact, you could argue they didn’t go far enough in cutting our methane targets.
AS COP30 talkfest ended, claims are surfacing that the controversial Avenida Liberdade — a four-lane 13km highway which cuts across the Amazon — was constructed specifically for the climate summit.
The Brazilian government has been accused of intentionally chopping down 100,000 Amazon trees in the northern state of Pará, as part of a plan to build a four-lane motorway close to the city of Belém, to facilitate access to the United Nations’ Climate Conference.
The claims didn’t escape the attention of US President Donald Trump, who chimed in, purporting on his Truth Social platform that Brazil’s rainforest was ripped apart to allow “environmentalists to travel”.
ARE THE heydays of soaring global demand for butter over?
In May this year, the price of butter of Global Dairy Trade platform nearly touched US$8000/MT.
However, butter prices have dropped in the last 10 consecutive GDT auctions and now sit at around US $5900/ MT.
While butter prices don’t impact the farmgate milk price in a big way, the downward trend should mean cheaper prices for butter on supermarket shelves.
The media were quick to blame Fonterra for the rise in prices, but don’t hold your breath for credit being given for the price drop!
Price cut coming?
DIPPING GLOBAL dairy prices have already resulted in Irish farmers facing a price cut from processors.
In New Zealand, all eyes will be on Fonterra, which is currently forecasting a mid-point of $10/kgMS but a wide range of $9 to $11 for this season’s milk. In Ireland, DairyGold became the latest processor to slash its October price by 3.25c (NZ 6c). Other key Irish dairy processors Kerry Dairy Ireland and Lakeland Dairies slashed their prices as well.
The rationale behind the price reduction is explicitly tied to deteriorating international market fundamentals – a prolonged environment where strong global milk supply continues to exceed demand.
WHAT GOES up must come down. So, global dairy prices retreating from lofty heights in recent months wouldn’t come as a surprise to many farmers.
After all, farmers around the globe are partly responsible – chasing high dairy prices, they have ramped up production, flooding the global market with milk. At the same time, demand has remained reasonable but not sufficient to soak up the extra supply at previously prevailing prices.
The price index on the latest Global Dairy Trade auction fell 3% to US$3678 a tonnethe 7th consecutive drop and a new 15-month low. Prices have declined for a cumulative 18% drop from its May peak.
Lower global dairy prices reflect a surge in milk supply from major exporting regions, including the US, NZ, and most recently the EU. No one is surprised; global milk production always looked like it would respond to previous price strength and dairy prices, like other commodities, work in cycles.
So, what does it mean for NZ farmers? Federated Farmers dairy section chair Karl Dean says farmers don’t need to worry yet. They just need to keep focusing on the things they can control on farm: keeping on top of costs where they can, paying down some debt, and investing in the resilience of farms during the good times. A silver lining is the low New Zealand dollar is cushioning the downside in local currency terms.
Dean expects NZ farmers to keep producing as the local climate and grass growth allows.
As he points out, NZ’s pasturebased production isn’t tied as closely to international prices as other countries who feed a lot of grain or other feed in their systems.
NZ farmers will be hoping that with dairy prices falling, those farmers will pull back production, helping arrest the decline in global dairy prices. Meantime, they will just carry on farming as efficiently as possible.
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SHEEP MILK processor
Maui Milk has achieved grass-fed certification of milk supply against the AsureQuality Grass-Fed Scheme.
The company says this recognition reinforces its ongoing commitment to quality, sustainability, and animal welfare, and marks a significant achievement for the team, supply farmers, and customers.
State-owned AsureQuality works alongside New Zealand’s primary producers and manufacturers, providing a broad range of independent services, including food safety, testing, auditing and certification. Maui Milk has elected AsureQuality as partner to provide independent auditing and certification services against the AsureQuality Grass-Fed Scheme.
“Through a rigorous and robust audit process, Maui Milk has demonstrated compliance with the AsureQuality Grass-Fed Standard, verification that our milk supply meets the requirements of the New Zealand Dairy Grass-Fed Administrative Standard, developed by the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI),” the company says.
The standard defines what it means to be grass-fed in New Zealand, outlining clear criteria for:
■ The minimum percentage of grass-
based feed in the animals’ diet and,
■ The amount of time animals must have access to pasture.
AsureQuality’s certification provides independent verification that Maui Milk’s entire milk pool meets these requirements, offering assurance of integrity and authenticity to both customers and partners.
Maui Mik says that being certified grassfed means that its trademarked Southern Cross dairy sheep are raised primarily on a diet of grass and forage, rather than grain-based feed.
Under the New Zealand Dairy Grass-Fed Administrative Standard:
■ Grass-fed feed types make up at least 90% of the diet of the sheep supplying to Maui Milk across all supplying farms
■ The sheep graze outside for an average of more than 340 days per year, for at least 8 hours per day.
Maui says its Southern Cross breed is ideally suited to this pasture-based, free-range system, thriving yearround in New Zealand’s natural environment, an approach that supports their wellbeing and allows natural behaviours to flourish.
This natural, pasturebased farming system:
■ Promotes the health and welfare of ewes.
■ Enhances the
nutritional quality and purity of milk.
■ Reflects Maui philosophy of working in harmony with New Zealand’s environment.
Maui Milk received its grass-fed certification at the China International Import Expo in Shanghai this month from Agriculture Minister Todd McClay.
A delegation led by McClay and including Dr Jonathan Austin, NZ Ambassador to China, Ardi Barnard, ConsulGeneral in Shanghai, and Jenny Cameron, incoming MPI Deputy Director-General China Relations visited the Maui Milk booth.
For consumers, grass-fed certification provides trusted and transparent assurance about how their
For our milk processors and supply farmers, this certification ensures:
■ Integrity and transparency of
credentials
■ A strong provenance story that supports premium positioning in local and global markets.
■ Recognition of the hard work and dedication of our farmers, who follow Maui Milk’s strict pasture-based standards with pride and care.
FONTERRA EDENDALE has been recognised with the Mars Dairy Supplier Quality Award for the top performing supplier sites in the global food company’s’ dairy supply chain.
It’s a proud moment for the site that the co-op says recognises years of dedication, collaboration and a shared commitment to excellence.
The co-op says the award is a great example of how it “creates value through excellence in food quality and trusted partnerships”. Mars and Fonterra say they have
developed a good partnership over the years. Together, both parties say they are focused on delivering outstanding standards of quality and food safety.
The Mars Dairy Supplier Quality Award is based on a holistic approach to assessing suppliers within their global dairy supplier base. The assessment goes beyond traditional audit effectiveness by considering site quality culture, audit performance, global food safety standards and overall plant condition. Edendale’s top performance across these areas
is said to be a testament to the site team’s relentless pursuit of quality.
Fonterra’s director global food safety, quality and regulatory, Justine Pearce, says the award reflects the team’s passion and commitment.
“This award highlights the incredible effort and passion of everyone at Edendale. It shows what’s possible when we work together with a shared commitment to creating trust in every drop of our farmers’ milk.”
Heather Rankin, supplier quality assurance technologist at Mars,
says the award is well deserved.
“Quality Culture is a big driver behind this award. Fonterra’s Edendale team has a great quality culture – you can see and feel the pride from everyone on site and the drive to improve. This award not only celebrates what the Edendale team has achieved — it also sets the tone for what’s next. Their commitment to quality and collaboration continues to strengthen Fonterra’s reputation as a trusted supplier of worldclass dairy.
“Mars values and appreciates the
focus on quality that the Edendale team provides and is excited to present this award to them.”
Edendale site manager, Andrew Johns, says the recognition is acknowledgement of the team’s longstanding commitment.
“We’re ecstatic to win the award – it’s great acknowledgement of all the hard work that has been done over decades from the site. We’re continuously improving and that’s the pleasing thing.”
PAM GOODIN
A CANTERBURY family farm is proving how Jerseys, innovation and strong breed commitment are shaping the next generation of sustainable, efficient dairy farming in New Zealand.
Ngatimaru Jerseys, located near the Canterbury coastline, represents a blend of heritage, family commitment and forward-thinking dairy farming. The Russell family has established a Jersey herd that balances production efficiency with animal care, environmental awareness and innovation. Their approach reflects broader changes in New Zealand dairying and highlights the enduring value of the Jersey breed in a competitive and sustainability-focused industry.
The farm traces its Jersey heritage back to the 1960s when the stud name was first registered by Sara Russell’s grandfather in Taranaki. In the
mid-1990s, the family moved south to convert a Hawarden property to dairy, bringing their Jerseys with them. After selling that farm, Sara’s parents purchased their current property in 2000. Originally a deer farm with flat, fertile soils and solid irrigation potential, it became the foundation of today’s Jersey-focused business.
Stuart and Sara returned from dairy farming in Ireland in 2007 and assisted with the conversion of the property to a full dairy platform. Their goal was to build a predominantly Jersey herd, and today around 85% of their 935-cow herd are pure Jerseys, with registrations actively maintained.
A small number of crossbreds, along with a few Guernseys and Brown Swiss, remain, but Jerseys form the backbone of the system.
The farm covers 283 effective hectares and is part of the Eiffelton Community Irrigation Scheme. Five centre pivots and well-managed irrigation infrastructure
provide near full coverage. Annual rainfall is close to 1200mm, and irrigation runs from November to March most seasons. Though close to the Hinds River and at risk of flooding, strategic drainage and elevated infrastructure help protect cows and equipment. The proximity to the coast helps maintain relatively mild conditions yearround.
Production targets sit around 440,000 kgMS per season. Cows average 500 kgMS from a liveweight of just 420kg, highlighting the impressive feed conversion efficiency of Jerseys. Around 800kg of supplementary feed per cow is provided annually, including grain blends fed through a DeLaval 54-bale rotary shed installed in 2007. Pasture performance averages 17 tonnes DM/ ha annually. The herd is predominantly A2, and while they currently supply Synlait, market conditions for A2 milk are closely monitored. With the purchase of an additional runoff block,
the family has recently increased cow numbers and retained more heifers to bolster growth.
Animal health at Ngatimaru Jerseys is supported by a combination of stockmanship and technology. The introduction of automatic calf feeders has improved calf welfare and reduced health challenges after weaning. Contrary to some perceptions, Jersey calves are not fragile but benefit from attentive care and warmth during colder conditions.
Calves are reared with careful attention to mineral status, genetics and environmental comfort. The use of sexed semen in Jersey matings has increased the value of bull calves, which are now in strong demand from rearers. The additional runoff land has enabled young stock to graze offfarm before returning as in-calf heifers, reducing pressure on the milking platform.
Herd health is also monitored through the Smaxtec bolus system, which tracks internal
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temperature to detect early signs of illness, metabolic changes or infection. This technology has significantly reduced mastitis incidence and labour requirements, with cell counts averaging around 75,000. The boluses, with a five-year lifespan, are fitted to cows as they enter the herd or earlier and can be used alongside grazing management technology such as Halter.
Breeding decisions at Ngatimaru Jerseys balance heritage and progress. While the Russell family values longlived cows with strong type and temperament, they also place emphasis on fertility, functionality and health traits.
Breeding Worth (BW) is considered but not
used in isolation; instead, individual breeding values are evaluated to build a balanced herd.
Overseas genetics, predominantly through Semex, are used to introduce durability, type and health traits. Many of the early imported Jerseys have remained productive in the herd for more than a decade. Polled genetics are becoming more prevalent, with around a quarter of calves naturally polled. Bull calves from high-performing cows are DNA tested, registered and retained for use over heifers. Artificial breeding is carried out by Stuart, often twice daily during mating to maximise precision and conception rates.
• Pam Goodin is general manager of JerseyNZ
BEYOND THE farm gate, the Russell family contributes to the Jersey and wider dairy community.
They are involved in the revival of the Canterbury Jersey Club, helping rebuild connections between breeders and encouraging knowledge-sharing. At a national level, Sara Russell has recently been elected as a director of JerseyNZ after previously serving as associate director and completing governance development programmes.
Her involvement reflects the importance of breed organisations in advocacy, youth engagement and industry leadership.
The next generation is already embedded in Ngatimaru Jerseys. Richard works locally and assists on the farm when possible, while Margaret, at 15, has developed a strong commitment to Jerseys. She has competed on the New Zealand youth team, gained experience overseas and remains active in the local show ring. Whether her future lies in farming or veterinary science, the Jersey breed is firmly part of her journey.
we’ve won before, it still feels great, like ‘we’ve done it again’. We are just so proud of them.”
IT’S NOT often that mother and daughter share the limelight, but for two of Tahuna’s Charbelle Holsteins’ show cows, that’s exactly what happened at the Holstein Friesian North Island Championships, held at the Waikato A&P Show.
Charbelle Tatoo Pix was named North Island Supreme Champion, as well as North Island Senior Champion, best udder, and placed first in the 5-and-6-year-old cow in milk category.
It is the third time that the highly decorated cow has won the title of North Island Supreme Champion.
Her daughter, Charbelle Hero PeeJay –‘Pix Junior’ – was named North Island Junior Champion and placed first in the Junior Yearling Heifer category.
Significantly, PeeJay’s full sister, Charbelle Hero Popcorn, was named North Island Junior Champion at the 2024 North Island Championships, held at NZ Dairy Event in January 2025.
Charbelle Holsteins’ Annabelle Scherer says they were “super chuffed” with the win.
“The ‘P’ family just keeps on giving,” she says. “You just can’t beat that feeling; even though
Annabelle, who is the vice president of Holstein Friesian NZ, says the wins were particularly sweet because the Holstein Friesian classes were so strong right throughout the competition at the Waikato A&P Show this year.
“I was so happy to see all the Holstein Friesian classes were well-represented,” she says. “The numbers were great; there were even new exhibitors there. The North Island Champs are often well attended; people consider it an important event.”
Earlier this month, Charbelle Tatoo Pix was pointed EX95 under the new Pointing Excellent Cows guidelines, which aims to identify cows that are the absolute elite in their breed for type.
Deemed by her classifier as likely to score higher than 92 points, Pix was re-inspected and scored 95 out of a possible 97.
The pointing of excellent cows will bring New Zealand into line with the rest of the world and aims to enhance consistency and recognition within the classification system, supporting breeders in identifying and celebrating topconformation cows.
THE BLACK and white coat of HolsteinFriesian cows is globally recognised as a symbol of dairy farming and a defining trait of domestic cattle. But until recently, scientists didn’t know which genes were responsible for the Holstein’s spots.
Coat patterns are some of the oldest traits selected by humans, likely since the dawn of domestication, showing how farmers have long shaped cattle populations.
For other breeds, the DNA variants behind unique patterns, such as the white face
of Herefords or the belts of Galloways, are already known. Now, a study involving Massey University’s Professor Matt Littlejohn has solved the mystery of the Holstein’s unique coat.
Using genomic techniques, the team analysed the coat patterns of thousands of cows and identified two specific DNA variants controlling two different genes – KIT and MITF – that explain much of the variation in Holstein spotting.
“These genes are wellknown for controlling pigmentation in humans, mice, dogs, horses, birds
and other species,” Littlejohn says.
The KIT gene variant found in Holsteins is unusual because it doesn’t sit within the gene itself. Instead, it regulates the gene from a different position on the chromosome.
“Think of it like a light switch turning on a light in another room,” he says.
The MITF variant is also unusual for its ability to create unique coat patterns when different breeds are crossbred.
“This variant can create black speckles in dairy crosses, ‘black socks’ in Belgian Blue
cattle, or reversal of the white face expected from a Hereford cross.”
While these patterns are interesting to look at, they aren’t simply aesthetic.
“Many dairy farmers cross Holsteins with Herefords to produce calves that will perform well in beef systems. The white face is important, since this marks the calf as a Hereford cross,” Littlejohn says.
“When ‘splotchy’ faced calves are born as a result of the MITF variant, these calves are harder to recognise as beef crosses and are often less valuable. Genetic
testing could help produce calves with more predictable coat patterns in the future.”
Other practical applications of the research include possible animal welfare benefits. Skin pigmentation affects heat absorption and UV protection. Black coats
absorb more heat but also provide better UV protection. Knowing how genes control pigmentation could help farmers select coat patterns that improve cattle comfort and performance.
“This research not only solves the mystery
about how the Holstein gets its spots, but also shows how genes can interact to create unique and unexpected patterns,” Littlejohn says.
“It’s a great example of how modern genomics can uncover the hidden mechanisms behind traits we often take for granted.
ANIMAL OWNERS can help protect life-saving antibiotics from resistant bacteria by keeping their animals healthy, says the New Zealand Veterinary Association.
It says the World AMR Awareness Week last week has been a part of global action plan to tackle the growing problem of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), where pathogens such as bacteria become resistant to critical antimicrobial medicines like antibiotics.
Dr Annabel Harris, chair of the NZVA Antimicrobial Resistance
(AMR) Committee, says judicial use of antibiotics is a priority for the animal health sector.
“Bacterial infections that are resistant to antibiotics can affect our pets and our livestock, and transfer between animals and humans and into the environment.
“We need to manage AMR as a One Health issue – that is that humans, animals and the environment are all connected. And we all have a role to play.
“Part of that is preventing the need to use antibiotics by keeping our pets
healthy through good nutrition, good hygiene, regular health checks and vaccinations. And when antibiotics are prescribed by a veterinarian it is essential to give them to your pet as directed.”
Harris says New Zealand is already a low user of antibiotics globally and is making good progress reducing its use. Since 2017, antibiotic sales figures for plants and animals have dropped by nearly 50% thanks to a concerted effort by veterinarians, farmers, industry and New Zealand Food Safety.
“We should be proud of that.
However, AMR is not going away. Bacteria that become resistant to antibiotics not only go on to reproduce survivors but can buddy up with other bacteria to share that resistant genetic material.
“So, we have to be judicious in how we use antibiotics and focus on the overall health of our animals to ensure these life-saving medicines continue to work as intended.”
Harris says for farmers, managing AMR requires a more holistic approach where antimicrobials like antibiotics are just one part of an integrated
disease control programme.
“It’s about careful attention to a range of farm practices, including biosecurity measures, vaccinations, hygiene, disinfection procedures, good animal nutrition, appropriate housing, close herd/flock monitoring and staff/ management training.
“This can feel overwhelming for farmers. Have a chat to your vet. They are trained scientists who stay abreast of new research and are wellpositioned to help you work out what is a good plan for you and your operation.”
MARK DANIEL markd@ruralnews.co.nz
TWO OF the South Island’s agricultural machinery dealers are undertaking strategic changes designed to deliver even greater specialist support to farmers.
Ashburtonheadquartered Carrfields has acquired Agricentre South’s Kubota agriculture and construction dealerships in Invercargill, Gore, and Cromwell, along with the retail distribution of Krone products in Otago.
With the approval of Kubota and Krone, Carrfields will commence operations from the existing Kubota premises in Invercargill, consolidate its Gore operations in early 2026 and integrate Agricentre’s
Kubota Cromwell site into a newly purchased Carrfields site in Alexandra during November.
“This is an exciting period of rapid growth for Carrfields in the Southland and Central Otago regions.”
The transition will take immediate effect for all Kubota and Krone products, with Kubota tractors transitioning on 5 January 2026. This follows Carrfields’ earlier appointment as the Krone retail dealer in Southland in October, succeeding Southland Farm Machinery.
Marking an important
milestone for both businesses, Agricentre South will concentrate on large-scale agricultural machinery, representing Case IH, New Holland, Kuhn, and Yamaha.
Meanwhile, Carrfields’ will strengthen the distribution of its premium brands, including Horsch, Krone, Manitou, MacDon, Novag and Grange. The move complements Carrfields’ established Seed, Livestock, and Financial Services divisions, which operate from its regional bases in Invercargill, Gore, and Alexandra.
The re-organisation will be led by Tristan Leov, the newly appointed regional manager for Otago and Southland.
“This is an exciting period of rapid growth for Carrfields in the Southland and Central
Craig
“Our investment reflects our confidence in the future of these regions and our commitment to providing customers with
an even broader range of premium products and tailored solutions.”
Kubota NZ marketing and business development manager Ian Massicks says the company is pleased to
have Carrfields expand their network in the Southland and Central Otago regions.
“There are many synergies between our businesses, and Carrfields’ focus on customer care and service excellence makes them an ideal partner as we continue to grow our presence with premiumquality products.”
MARK DANIEL markd@ruralnews.co.nz
POLARIS OFF Road has unveiled the 2026 Ranger 500, an all-new mid-size utility side-by-side aimed at bringing the quality and reliability of the American brand into the value segment.
While the Ranger brand has been an enduring utility side-byside brand for 27 years, the company sees an opportunity to expand their lineup with a vehicle that offers the right features at the right price.
With an RRP starting from $18,995 including GST, the Ranger 500 includes an array of standard features that provide strong value, including simple and intuitive controls that make it easy to use, with responsive on-demand all-wheel drive for challenging terrain. Its compact size and nimble handling make it ideal for navigating tight spaces
and accessing hard-toreach areas.
The rear dump box can carry up to 227kg, complemented by a and protection from the elements. Factoryinstalled LED headlights also provide superior visibility in low-light
28-horsepower engine provides ample power for tasks such as hauling tools and other materials around a property.
Hassle-free maintenance is ensured with easy access to oil, air filter, and other key components, with
MARK DANIEL markd@ruralnews.co.nz
CB NORWOOD Distributors Limited has announced the appointment of John Skurr to the position of general manager.
Skurr took up the position earlier this month. He has spent the last 17 years of his 36 year career in senior positions at Alliance and PGG Wrightson. Most recently he was the director ANZ and premium brands at Alliance, with responsibility for the international development of brands like Lumina. Skurr has also held national leadership roles at PGG Wrightson, including head of water and retail technical.
“We’re excited to welcome John, who has a strong background in sales leadership, agribusiness, and technical operations,” says Men Form-Zuellig, CB Norwood Distributors Limited board chair.
“In addition to his commercial experience, John also owns a commercial Hereford and Dorset Down stud farm in Canterbury, giving him insight and
MARK DANIEL markd@ruralnews.co.nz
THE RECENTLY released Claas Jaguar 1000 Series has seen its flagship 1200 set a new official Guiness World Record in forage harvesting, harvesting 4096 tonnes of whole crop silage in 12 hours, alongside an efficiency record of just 0.49 litres of fuel consumption per tonne of silage harvested.
With the project designed to showcase the throughput capacity of the most powerful JAGUAR of all time, with a maximum output of 1110 hp, the event also confirmed a huge leap in performance, since a Jaguar 900 of 2001 set a previous benchmark of 1891 tonnes harvested in 12 hours.
Featuring around 30% larger dimensions than the previous Series, the 1000 offers a new pick-up with independent, variable drive and conveyor auger, new hydraulic precompression, widest crop flow with 910mm wide V-FLEX chopping cylinder, high-torque and efficient MAN 12-cylinder engine with Dynamic
Power and Cemos Auto Performance driver’s assistance.
Taking place in early June, in the middle of the US tornado season, the event centred around extensive logistics that, besides the harvester, included a Disco 9700 RC triple mower, with auto swather mounted on a Axion 960 of 460hp, 30 articulated trucks and a Xerion 12.590 Trac with a 5.5m silage blade on the clamp.
Taking place near the small Texan town of Dalhart, on irrigated ground, and overseen by a Guiness Records official, the event started at 8.00am.
Driven by US product manager Matt Jaynes, with the machine was set to 17mm chop length, with Cemos Auto Performance, Auto Fill and GPS Auto Pilot all engaged.
From the start, an impressive pace saw trucks filled in two minutes, 43 seconds, resulting in 266 truckloads carted in the 12-hour period.
During the day, nerves were tested by dark clouds on the horizon. This turned into stormy and windy conditions, but no rain over the 12 hours, that were only interrupted by a short refuelling stop and a few
sharpening cycles, before an 8.00pm finish.
The performance and process data were continuously monitored and documented in Claas Connect,
moisture measurement taken on the weighbridge.
In addition to moisture, dry matter and crude fibre content, the Nutrimeter was also able to determine
that it’s not just horsepower that counts in a forage harvester, but an optimally coordinated overall concept from the front attachment to the precompression and chopping cylinder
