Livestock

South Waikato farmers, Hugh and Anna Edward, showcase the impact of strong operational discipline and smart equity growth. From cost-focused sharemilking beginnings to expanding their two-dairy system, providing a practical blueprint for profitable, modern dairy farming. Words Anne Lee, Photos Emma McCarthy.

While calving can be a demanding time for cows, calves and staff alike, good preparation and planning can significantly reduce pressure when things ramp up – helping to keep people and animals safe, healthy and on track. Words Penny Timmer-Arends & Dr Stacey Hendriks, DairyNZ.

Effective pain relief using anti-inflammatories can have productivity benefits alongside the primary effect of making animals more comfortable. Words Rory Dean.

New research findings show that feeding calves higher milk allowances can have major lifelong effects on cow production and benefits on a range of animal health factors, prompting a review on advice for calf feeding. Words Anne Lee.

A shift to extended lactation and mating half the herd each year, in combination with the use of more beef semen, is allowing Waikato sharemilkers to rear more calves for beef without increasing the spring workload. Words Lydia Farrell.

Calf scours is arguably one of the most common diseases of newborn calves, and the consequences on animal welfare – as well as the heart break for those managing the calves – can be devastating. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.

Drench resistance has plagued sheep farmers for years. Mary Bowron from Wormwise stresses that with an estimated one in three farms facing triple drench resistance, this could mean losses of around $80,000 annually. Words Mary Bowron.

With calving on the horizon, pelletised mineral supplements help dairy farmers keep their herds healthy and productive. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.

Could a 24-month calving interval ease spring workload and reduce non-replacement calves? After two years of research, DairyNZ is now working with a commercial farm to test the system – and early signs are promising. Words Dr Paul Edwards.

Northland veterinarian, Rory Dean, highlights a success story of wearable cow collars health alerts preventing a twisted gut turning fatal. Words Rory Dean.