NZ Dairy Hits Record 2 Billion kgMS in 2025/26 Season
The New Zealand dairy sector set a record in the 2025/26 season, producing more than two billion kilograms of milksolids for the first time.
DairyNZ is reviewing where it should focus effort and levy investment over the next five years, what challenges farmers need help with and where industry body can make the biggest difference.
Farmers have until 15 November to complete a short online form.
Their input will be considered alongside previous farmer feedback and wider evidence before the board makes final decisions about DairyNZ’s refreshed strategy.
DairyNZ will update farmers in early 2027 on the key themes they identify and how they have helped shape its future focus.
Meanwhile farmers from across Northland joined the DairyNZ board and leadership team last week for its 2026 annual meeting.
Held immediately following a Resilient Pastures field day at Crawford Farms in Hikurangi, those in attendance enjoyed a streamlined annual meeting showcasing the year that was and a taste of what’s to come.
DairyNZ chair Tracy Brown says the new format created more opportunity for farmers to engage directly with board members and leaders.
“This year’s format allowed more time for practical conversations about the work underway and how it will deliver value for farmers.
“With levy payers voting in advance on director elections, remuneration and annual meeting resolutions, most formalities were already complete,” Brown says.
DairyNZ chief executive Campbell Parker says the meeting highlighted a year of practical delivery for levy payers.
“Over the past year, we brought farmer-led discussion groups back, helped more farmers access practical advice through DAiSY, advanced research and science that supports better on-farm decisions, and strengthened farmers’ voice in Wellington.
“These achievements reflect our focus on turning levy investment into practical value for farmers,” Parker says.
Combining the event with a Resilient Pastures field day allowed participants to see the programme in action.
Resilient Pastures brings together researchers, farmers and industry partners to develop practical tools and knowledge that help farmers build more resilient pastures in the face of drought, heat and changing conditions – issues greatly affecting Northland and upper North Island regions.
Board members also visited Northland Agricultural Research Farm, the 85ha farm owned collectively by Northland farmers.
