Semi-robotic milking technology to boost parlour efficiency
Waikato Milking Systems’ latest innovation, ErgoPOD is now commercially available within New Zealand and Australia.
Adding modern technology to a dairy farm is an effective way of increasing efficiency, boosting productivity and better managing your cows.
Waikato Milking Systems has been at the forefront in this arena – delivering fully integrated management tools to provide an increase performance and automation in the dairy.
The company’s NaviGate dairy management system was launched in late 2018, drawing interest from farmers globally.
“The system can be easily retrofitted into most dairies to provide farmers with the tools to identify and respond to the most issues,” says WMS sales manager for Taranaki / Manawatu Brian Luff.
“It allows getting to know cows individually, note their production at each milking and shed light on any health issues early on.”
Luff also points to the new milk cooling regulations that require farmers to meet new standards.
“Selecting the right cooling solution could mean significant savings as milk cooling accounts for up to 30% of the total energy costs of a dairy farm.”
He says Waikato Milking Systems’ range of cooling options ensure farmers economically meet industry standards and save ongoing operational costs.
Farmers interested in upgrading their current dairies will have the opportunity to discuss their options including electronic cup removers, pulsation and cluster options at the Central Districts Field Days.
Luff says when combined these products offer improved efficiency and a further opportunity to reduce costs.
Fonterra has unveiled its annual results for the 2026 financial year, posting $27 billion in revenue and close to $20 billion returned to New Zealand farmer owners and unit holders.
The first major update to the Dairy Cattle Code of Welfare in more than a decade has been released, marking what DairyNZ describes as an important step in ensuring animal welfare standards continue to evolve alongside scientific evidence and on-farm realities.
Ravensdown shareholders have elected Jane Montgomery and Kate Acland to the Ravensdown Board for three-year terms, following a closely contested director election.
Federated Farmers says new legislation replacing the Resource Management Act will cut red tape, unlock investment and help grow New Zealand's export-led economy, after the Planning Bill and Natural Environment Bill passed their third reading in Parliament yesterday.
Leading figures from the major political parties will be questioned on their primary sector policies at the Rural Issues Debate at Mystery Creek Events Centre, Hamilton, on 30 September.
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