How AI and Wearable Tech Are Transforming NZ Dairy Farming Decisions
Technology and the use of artificial intelligence are increasingly part of life, both on the farm and off it.
The man who's played a leading role in the dairy industry for more than one-and-a-half decades will step down at the end of June.
Tim Mackle, chief executive of DairyNZ and before that CEO of Dexcel, says he has mixed emotions about leaving his current role. However, he believes it's a good time to go despite the mixed emotions about his decision.
Mackle believes announcing his decision now will allow the DairyNZ board to recruit a successor and ensure a smooth transition.
“I feel extremely privileged and proud to have had the opportunity to lead and help develop DairyNZ on behalf of our farmer owners/members. Right from our formation in 2007, to today, I’m proud of the many achievements we have delivered.”
Mackle says the dairy sector continues to go through challenging times and it’s crucial that it continues to work together to find ways that add the most value to farmers. He also feels optimistic about future opportunities for dairy and the wider NZ primary sector.
DairyNZ Chair Jim van der Poel says Mackle has made a huge contribution to both DairyNZ and to dairy farmers, by helping dairy farmers navigate challenges they have faced and continue to face.
“We’re fortunate to have had Tim at DairyNZ through many challenging periods. He has played a key role in developing the R&D programme and the development of our science-based policy and advocacy function. He has been a strong leader and advocate for dairy.”
Van der Poel added that because of Mackle’s strong passionate leadership he has made a significant contribution to the wider dairy and primary sectors, through his influence on various boards, steering groups, and committees.
“That puts us at DairyNZ in a great position to continue to deliver more for farmers and New Zealand.”
Having gone through a troublesome “divorce” from its association and part ownership of AGCO, Indian manufacturer TAFE is said to be determined to be seen as a modern business rather than just another tractor maker from the developing world.
Two long-standing New Zealand agricultural businesses are coming together to strengthen innovation, local manufacturing capability, and access to essential farm inputs for farmers across the country.
A new farmer-led programme aimed at bringing young people into dairy farming is under way in Waikato and Bay of Plenty.
The Government has announced changes to stock exclusion regulations which it claims will cut unnecessary costs and inflexible rules while maintaining environmental protections.
Technology and the use of artificial intelligence are increasingly part of life, both on the farm and off it.
Ashleigh Gordon and Leilani Lobb have been named as the two finalists for Dairy Women's Network's (DWN) 2026 Regional Leader of the Year Award.

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