increase font size
Jane Muir, Senior People Specialist, DairyNZ
OPINION: Today marks Farm Worker Appreciation Day – a day we’re proud to recognise here in New Zealand.
More than 53,000 Kiwis work in the dairy sector. If there’s one thing that unites us all in the dairy sector, it’s knowing that our people are at the heart of every successful farm business.
Whether they’re up early calving cows, training new team members, or making smart decisions to keep farms productive and sustainable, farm workers are a critical part of our dairy sector.
Today is a chance to pause and acknowledge the team members who care for our animals, look after our land, and help feed people here and around the world.
Often, it’s the little things that make the biggest difference. A shout-out at a team meeting, a shared morning tea, or a simple “thanks” at the end of a long day can go a long way in helping people feel valued.
These small, consistent gestures build trust, lift morale, and strengthen team loyalty – all vital for attracting and retaining great team members.
Some of the most successful farms I’ve seen are those where employers are intentional about how they support their teams. Regular check-ins, clear communication, and genuine recognition aren’t just nice to have – they’re part of a culture that delivers better outcomes for people, animals, the environment, and the bottom line.
We all know farming comes with its challenges, and recent years have brought plenty; but what’s inspiring is the number of farmers stepping up to lead in new ways. They’re rethinking rosters, improving work-life balance, and creating workplaces where people want to stay and grow.
That work is paying off. We’re seeing better retention across the board, with more people staying in the sector and in individual farm businesses. Farmers are focusing on fair rosters, competitive remuneration, and good team culture, and it’s making a real difference.
Right now, many farms are in the thick of calving – one of the most intense and demanding periods of the year. So, what better time to take a moment, catch your breath, and show appreciation? Whether it’s pizza for lunch, a coffee break together, or just a heartfelt thank you, celebrate the great people on your farm, and on farms right around the country. They deserve it.
Happy Farm Worker Appreciation Day.
Jane Muir is a Senior People Specialist for DairyNZ.
Tatua Co-operative Dairy Company has confirmed that chair and director Stephen Allen will retire at the co-operative's annual general meeting (AGM) on 3 December 2026, ending 30 years of service, including more than 20 years as Chair.
OPINION: Mike Chapman, former chief executive of levy-funded HortNZ, has thrown out a challenge to farmers and growers to put their levy-funded industry organisations under the same scrutiny as fertiliser, electricity, labour and freight.
Clean and comfortable calf sheds help create a nurturing environment for calves, reduces the risk of disease and encourages high growth rates.
Signing up to a benchmarking tool is not about competition, but about improving collectively, says Ximena Puig and Alvaro Luzardo who are 50-50 sharemilkers at a 164-hectare (effective) dairy farm in Eketāhuna in the Lower North Island.
Building a strong team is one of the biggest drivers of a successful sheep and beef business, but it can also be one of the tougher parts to get right.
The avocado sector is entering the new season with a larger crop and positive market opportunities.
New Zealand growers have always adapted to changing conditions, but one challenge is steadily gaining ground across the horticulture sector: resistance.
Blueberries have the potential to become a major horticultural export, earning up to $150 million within the next three to five years.
Twenty five secondary school students from around New Zealand recently completed a three day residential programme designed to explore career opportunities across the food and fibre production supply chain.
Conversions of sheep and beef farms to forestry have slowed, however new research from Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) suggests land of value for food production remains at risk.
OPINION: A simpler, clearer, more effective Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme.
OPINION: The Irish dairy sector is facing a new dilemma - maintaining year-round fresh milk supplies.
OPINION: Could beef cows play an increasingly important role in improving profitability and resilience on hill country farms?
