Dairy Events Calendar
Explore all upcoming Dairy Industry
Events
New Zealand has made great progress in reducing the impact of TB but there’s more to do to finish the job.
Find out more about the TB Plan Review consultation and ask the experts your questions.
Learn more or RSVP to an event
We're teaming up with our friends at Gallagher and Tru-Test to run
drop-in sessions to get the most out of your scanner.
Join us for a special drop-in session, where you can stop by your local
Farm Source store and get support on how to use your scanner to meet
your NAIT obligations. Learn new tips from the experts on how to make
the most out of your scanner, as well as help with weight scales and
general NAIT support.
Make sure to bring along your scanner (and laptop/cellphone), so we
can help get everything set up correctly for you.
No need to book for these sessions - just turn up between 10am and
2pm and we'll be there to help!
Join Mark and Hailey Shaw on-farm, alongside local farmers, to connect, learn and discuss current on-farm and sector issues.
Lunch provided.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
This course will cover:
This free course is suitable for 2IC's, farm managers, self-employed farmers and farm owners. The course includes four in-person workshops held in between milkings on 6 October, 20 October, 3 November and 17 November.
Please note the location change.
In partnership with Federated Farmers of New Zealand and DairyNZ, this Contract Milking course will cover:
This free course is suitable for contract milkers or variable order sharemilkers, or dairy farmers intending to go contract milking within the next 18 months. The course includes 8 online workshops on 6 October, 13 October, 20 October, 27 October, 3 November, 10 November, 17 November and 25 November.
Getting Dairy Employment Right!
Being a good employer isn’t just about keeping people happy — it’s about running a productive, compliant, and financially smart farming operation. This webinar is designed to give you the tools, knowledge, and confidence to get dairy employment right — whether you’re hiring your first team member or reviewing your current practices.
Join the team at CMK Accountants for a practical and down-to-earth session covering the key responsibilities of a dairy farm employer. You’ll walk away with a clearer understanding of:
📝 Employment Agreements
💼 Minimum Standards You Must Meet
💰 Payroll & Remuneration Essentials
🛠️ On-Farm Employment Realities
💻 Tools That Can Help
📍 Where to Go for Support
This webinar is aimed at farming employers, aimed at helping get things right from the dairy shed to the spreadsheet. Bring your questions and join us for a session that’s all about building strong teams while keeping your farm business in good shape!
This webinar is bought to you by Dairy Women's Network and CMK Chartered Accountants
This course will cover:
This free course is suitable for 2IC's, farm managers, self-employed farmers and farm owners. The course includes four in-person workshops held in between milkings on 7 October, 21 October, 4 November and 18 November.
Join us on-farm with hosts, Andrew Barlass and Allan Harkness, to hear how they maximise pasture and crop yields on their self-contained farm, and how this impacts their farm system, operating profit and emissions goals. For the first time the farm tried wintering on bailage - see what the plan is going forward.
DairyNZ Principal Scientist, Jane Kay, will share research insights into marginal milk and calculating the cost of supplements if introduced to the system.
At this Progressing Dairy Event, you'll hear more about:
DairyNZ tools that can assist on this topic include:
Join farmers and experts at DairyNZ’s Progressing Dairy Events to share what’s working – and why- so we all get a little better every season.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
Join us on-farm with hosts, Matt and Claire Goodwin, to hear how they maximise pasture and crop yields on their farm, and how this impacts their farm's system, operating profit and emissions. Due to limited water availability, Matt and Claire have utilised a summer crop of turnips, and more recently chicory to maximise their water efficiency.
DairyNZ Senior Project Manager Sarah Gard, will share insights from the Improved Forage Gains programme and the latest regional science on pasture persistence and resilience.
At this Progressing Dairy Event, you'll hear more about:
DairyNZ tools that can assist on this topic include FeedChecker and Supplement Price Calculator
Join farmers and experts at DairyNZ's Progressing Dairy Events to share what's working- and why- so we get a little better every season.
Lunch kindly provided by Donaghys Ltd.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
Join this discussion group at Pip Campbells' farm to connect with local farmers and explore current on-farm and sector issues.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
Join us on-farm with hosts Erwin and Viviene Hebler, alongside insights from DairyNZ South Taranaki Area Manager Talissa Squire and Fonterra.
At this Progressing Dairy Event, you’ll hear more about:
Join farmers and experts at DairyNZ’s Progressing Dairy Events to share what’s working - and why – so we all get a little better every season.
Lunch kindly provided by Fonterra.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
Join the Taylor Family on their farm, alongside local farmers, to connect, learn and discuss current on-farm and sector issues.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
Join hosts Mike and Tracy O'Sullivan on-farm, alongside local farmers, to connect, learn and discuss current on-farm and sector issues.
Lunch provided.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
Join this discussion group at Stephen & Fred Pellets farm to connect with local farmers and explore current on-farm and sector issues.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
Join us at the Darfield Recreation and Community Centre with guest speaker Jane Kay, Principal Scientist at DairyNZ.
Learn how strategic pasture management and smart use of supplements can optimise homegrown feed, boost milk production, support herd performance, and lift farm profitability. We’ll also explore how this links to your overall farm system and why it’s important to focus on now - even in a good payout.
At this Progressing Dairy Event, you’ll hear more about:
DairyNZ tools that can assist on this topic include: FeedChecker, Feed budgets and the Supplement Price Calculator.
BBQ dinner from 6:15pm, kindly provided by Synlait.
This workshop is designed to give students an overview of issues relating to lameness management and introduce them to the 5-step trimming process.
The workshop has 5 on-line learning modules totaling 90 minutes which must be completed before the practical trimming day. On the day of the workshop you will need to bring your gumboots, overalls, clothing suitable for the weather and your lunch.
What you will learn
Free Course Textbook: “Foot Care in Cattle”
Cost: $415 + GST
Another Option:
GROUP DAYS – are catered to a farm/community where the farm/farm group organises the students to attend and the Dairy Hoofcare Institute delivers the training.
Group days options are available with the following costings (*conditions apply):
If this is an option you are interested in please phone 03 662 8015 or complete the Group day enquiry form below the references.
Primary ITO Dairy Goat Farming
Level 3 - Assist with Milk Harvesting and Optimising Milk Quality for Goat
Suited to those new to and with limited experience in the dairy goat industry.
What is this course? There are 3 interactive workshop style days where you will learn and gain understanding about:
You must be employed on a farm to complete this NZQA course.
Dairy Goat Co-op are currently sponsoring one staff member per DGC farm to attend and gain this qualification, so please ask your manager if you can enrol.
Contact Sharlene for more information or to enrol: sharlene.grover@primaryito.ac.nz or phone 027 243 2973
This course will cover:
This free course is suitable for emerging leaders including 2IC's, herd managers, and new managers. Participants will require support and guidance from on-farm seniors. The course includes four in-person workshops held in between milkings on 8 October, 22 October, 5 November and 19 November.
This course will cover:
This free course is suitable for 2IC's, farm managers, self-employed farmers and farm owners. The course includes four in-person workshops held in between milkings on 8 October, 22 October, 5 November and 26 November.
This course will cover:
This free course is suitable for 2IC's, farm managers, self-employed farmers and farm owners. The course includes four in-person workshops held in between milkings on 8 October, 22 October, 5 November and 19 November.
This course will cover:
This free course is suitable for emerging leaders including 2IC's, herd managers, and new managers. Participants will require support and guidance from on-farm seniors. The course includes four in-person workshops held in between milkings on 8 October, 22 October, 5 November and 19 November.
Discover practical strategies to drive efficiency and profitability in your dairy operation at this year’s Focus Day, hosted by the South Island Dairying Demonstration Centre (SIDDC) in conjunction with Fonterra and DairyNZ.
Hear from guest speakers:
Louise Cook (Fonterra)
Jane Kay (DairyNZ)
Plus, a farmer panel will share their insights, experiences and opportunities.
A light lunch will be provided.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
Understanding your personal and business progression options can help to build business strength and lead to achieving financial freedom.
Hear from Paul Bird, DairyNZ's business specialist, about pathways to achieving financial freedom, the impacts of compounding interest, and options and opportunities for equity growth.
This event is for dairy farmers at all career levels who want to:
You’ll walk away with:
Lunch will be provided.
Join Clinton Mokaraka on farm, alongside local farmers, to connect, learn and discuss current on-farm and sector issues.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
Join us on-farm with hosts Mitch and Cheree Hitchcock, alongside insights from DairyNZ South Taranaki Area Manager, Talissa Squire and Fonterra.
At this Progressing Dairy Event, you’ll hear more about:
Join farmers and experts at DairyNZ’s Progressing Dairy Events to share what’s working - and why – so we all get a little better every season.
Lunch kindly provided by Fonterra.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
Join us on-farm with hosts, Johan and Morgan van Vliet, as Johan shares how they maximise pasture and crop yields. Discover how their approach enhances their overall farm system to achieve a profitable farm business.
DairyNZ Senior Farm Systems Specialist, Mark Williams, will share research insights behind resilient pastures, with a focus on improving pasture persistence, boosting performance and enabling future-fit farm systems.
At this Progressing Dairy Event, you’ll hear more about:
DairyNZ tools that can assist on this topic include Pasture and Crop Eaten Calculator, Spring Rotation Planner and Feed Checker.
Lunch provided kindly sponsored by ASB Bank. Registration required – please register by Friday, 3 October.
Join this discussion group at Jared McKenzies farm to connect with local farmers and explore current on-farm and sector issues.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
If you’ve moved to Aotearoa to work on a dairy farm – whether you’re a farm assistant or a manager – this event is for you.
Join us at law firm, Tavendale and Partners in Ashburton, and learn how to take the next step in your career and make the most of DairyNZ’s tools and resources.
What to expect:
If you are a Rural Professional and would like to attend, please contact Heather Donaldson on 027 5934124.
Afternoon tea provided.
Register here.
Join us for an engaging evening of updates, inspiration, and connection as we shape the future of farming in our region.
Hear from Western North Island Director Andrew Stewart, Farmer Council Chair Megan Bates, and the Western North Island Extension team as they reflect on the year. This is your chance to be part of the conversation—bring your questions, ideas, and feedback.
We’ll also be voting to replace retiring members of the Western North Island Farmer Council. If you're passionate about farming and keen to contribute, we’d love to hear from you. We are now welcoming expressions of interest to join the Western North Island Farmer Council. You don’t need to be formally nominated – just keen to contribute and help shape the future of farming in our region.
Expressions of interest close at 5pm, Thursday 2nd September. Nomination forms are available on request.
Enjoy dinner and a cash bar throughout the evening, and we will close out the evening with an inspiring speaker.
Registration is essential for catering purposes.
LUDF Update - Pathway to Progress - SIDDC
Includes: Continuous Improvemetn Plan & GAP Analysis.
The Balancing Act of Profitability and Emissions - Fonterra
The link between profit and emissions - Fonterra & DairyNZ Emissions & Profitability Project.
The Engine at Work: Optimising Cow Performance - Fonterra
Focussing on improving cow quality and efficiency, to have a more productive cow and herd.
Fuelling Growth: Optimising Pasture & Feed - DairyNZ
The golden rules of feed management on farm, managing a surplus, optimising supplement use, and making money from milk.
Get your calves from weaning, into the herd!
Come along for a hands-on look at calf rearing and discussion on young stock management.
Join Josiah and Charlotte Schouten on-farm as they talk us through how they rear their calves through to weaning. Then hear from Tracy Henderson on what it takes to turn those weaned calves into strong, productive R2s that go on to perform in the milking herd. Sunita McGrath from VetSouth will also talk about vaccination and drenching
☕ Morning tea provided by DairyNZ
🍴 Lunch kindly provided by Vet South
Cost: Free
Event Timings: Start 9.30am | Finish 1.30pm
RSVP by: Wednesday 8th October
This course will cover:
This free course is suitable for 2IC's, farm managers, self-employed farmers and farm owners. The course includes four in-person workshops held in between milkings on 9 October, 30 October, 20 November and 4 December.
This course will cover:
This free course is suitable for emerging leaders including 2IC's, herd managers, and new managers. Participants will require support and guidance from on-farm seniors. The course includes four in-person workshops held in between milkings on 9 October, 23 October, 6 November and 20 November.
This course will cover:
This free course is suitable for 2IC's, farm managers, self-employed farmers and farm owners. The course includes four in-person workshops held in between milkings on 9 October, 22 October, 6 November and 20 November.
Join us at Rex Butterworths Cambell Rd farm to look at the role of homegrown feed in driving both profitability and sustainability, and what the trends are for pasture harvested and growth in the Waikato.
DairyNZ Senior Scientist Elena Minnee will share research insights behind resilient pastures, with a focus on regional science solutions to improve pasture persistence and boost performance.
The Butterworths have owned the farm for 27 years. Using Red Sky in the past, and more recently DairyBase for the last 3 seasons, we can see how their farm system has evolved using maize. They run a very profitable business, with operating profit, and pasture and crop harvested consistently above the district average. Their 106-ha farm runs 500 Friesian cows and did 2300kg/ha last season with an operating profit in the top 5%.
At this Progressing Dairy Event, you’ll hear more about:
DairyNZ tools that can assist on this topic include the FeedChecker, Pasture and Crop Eaten Calculator and the Supplement Price Calculator.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
Join us on-farm with hosts, share milkers William and Jardin Marshall, and farm owners Geoff and Rosalie Shearer, to hear how they maximise pasture yield on their system 3 farm, and how this impacts their farm system and sustainability goals.
At this Progressing Dairy Event, you’ll hear more about:
DairyNZ tools that can assist on this topic include
Join farmers and experts at DairyNZ’s Progressing Dairy Events to share what’s working – and why – so we all get a little better every season.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
Join us on-farm with hosts, Mark and Michelle Power, as they share how they maximise pasture and crop yields - without relying on maize - despite farming in a region heavily affected by both wet and dry conditions. Discover how their innovative approach enhances their overall farm system and drives operating profit in an area where maize is typically a cornerstone of success.
DairyNZ Senior Farm Systems Specialist, Mark Williams, will share research insights behind resilient pastures, with a focus on improving pasture persistence, boosting performance and enabling future-fit farm systems.
At this Progressing Dairy Event, you’ll hear more about:
DairyNZ tools that can assist on this topic include Pasture and Crop Eaten Calculator, Spring Rotation Planner and Feed Checker.
Lunch provided by ANZ. Registration required – please register by Friday 3 October.
Protect our industry – please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
Open Day at Creaming It farm to check out a newly finished calving and loafing barn in action.
This hybrid barn, designed for 250 cows, blends a full-time wintering barn and a stand-off pad, featuring a 12m loafing area in the middle, feedface down both sides, and a mono-pitch roof for simplicity and cost savings. It’s already completed its first season, slashing pasture damage by 30% during rough weather and making calving a breeze with less stress and faster checks on those frosty winter mornings.
Why It’s Special
Designed with animal welfare and staff in mind
Cost-effective, saving 15% compared to other options
Heavy-duty mesh weather protection curtains, 3m high, designed to roll up
82.8m x 14m (12m centre + 1m overhangs)
H5 SED timber poles, H3 treated timber purlins, NZ-made Glulam LVL rafters
5° roof pitch
Feeding both sides (250 cows), composting in the middle, loafing for 200 cows
Woodchip: 740 m³
Date: 9 October
Time: 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM
Location: Carterton
For: Dairy farmers and consultants
Free lunch provided
We're teaming up with our friends at Gallagher and Tru-Test to run
drop-in sessions to get the most out of your scanner.
Join us for a special drop-in session, where you can stop by your local
Farm Source store and get support on how to use your scanner to meet
your NAIT obligations. Learn new tips from the experts on how to make
the most out of your scanner, as well as help with weight scales and
general NAIT support.
Make sure to bring along your scanner (and laptop/cellphone), so we
can help get everything set up correctly for you.
No need to book for these sessions - just turn up between 10am and
2pm and we'll be there to help!
Join Greg and Gail Mitchell on farm, alongside local farmers, to connect, learn and discuss current on-farm and sector issues.
Lunch provided - kindly sponsored by Farmlands.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
Join us on-farm with hosts Byron and Laura West, alongside insights from DairyNZ South Taranaki Area Manager Talissa Squire and Fonterra.
At this Progressing Dairy Event, you’ll hear more about:
Join farmers and experts at DairyNZ’s Progressing Dairy Events to share what’s working - and why – so we all get a little better every season.
Lunch kindly provided by Fonterra.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
Is farm ownership your goal?
Join us to hear how Manoj Kumar and Sumit Kamoj, DIA 2021 New Zealand Share Farmers of the Year 2021, turned their farm ownership dream into reality 14 years after arriving in New Zealand. Manoj and Sumit are now owners of a 348 ha farm milking 1200 cows in Canterbury.
They will talk to Wade Bell about:
Plus much more!
Join Dairy Training Ltd (DTL) for a LIVE webinar where you’ll learn who they are, the training they provide, and how they’re supporting farmers to build skills that drive real results on-farm!
You’ll get a look into DTL’s focus of delivering practical, relevant training that meets the ever-evolving needs of the dairy sector. Hear about existing programmes and new offerings, including the recently launched Feed for Profit course, which is designed to help farmers make smarter, more profitable decisions around feed management.
The session will feature a panel discussion with a DTL tutor and recent student, who will share their first-hand experiences with the Feed for Profit course and how it has impacted their approach to feed planning and farm profitability.
What you’ll learn:- Who DTL is and what they offer
- Insights into their new and existing training programmes
- Real-world feedback from a tutor & student on the Feed for Profit course
- How DTL is planning to expand its offerings in the near future
Who should attend:- Dairy farmers & farm staff
- Anyone interested in practical, dairy contextualised training
Whether you're a dairy farmer, farm manager, or part of a team looking to upskill, this webinar is a great opportunity to learn more about how DTL’s training can support your goals - and what’s coming next.
This webinar is bought to you by Dairy Women's Network and Dairy Training Ltd
Steven and Hayley Clarke are focused on farming profitably while managing a low environmental impact.
Join us on-farm to hear what levers they are pulling to do this – including,
This has resulted in an operating profit per ha in the top 15% of Southland farms (in DairyBase).
Louise Cook from Fonterra, will discuss what the regional and national data is telling us about the link between profit and emissions intensity, and how to get the best from your Farm Insights Report (FIR).
At this Progressing Dairy Event you’ll hear more about:
DairyNZ tools to assist with this topic include the Pasture and Crop Eaten Calculator.
If you're a Fonterra farmer, bring your FIR with you to look through and check out the Fonterra Emissions Scenario Calculator.
Lunch provided.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
Join us on farm with hosts Charlotte and Murray Aitken, who have owned their Karamea dairy farm since the 2018/19 season. Hear how they maximise pasture growth, minimise imported feed and utilise lucerne within their system. Also, learn how their 2024/25 season compares with previous years through DairyBase benchmarks, following a tough climatic season.
DairyNZ Area Manager Dayne Paton will share regional strategies to boost dry matter yield per hectare, cost -effective pasture measurement and management tools you can use on-farm, and future-focused science to help keep your farm profitable and sustainable.
At this Progressing Dairy Event, you’ll hear more about:
DairyNZ tools that can assist on this topic include FeedChecker, Pasture and Crop Eaten Calculator and Supplement Price Calculator.
BBQ lunch kindly provided by Westland Milk Products and supported by RST.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
Join Brad O'Brien on farm, alongside local farmers, to connect, learn and discuss current on-farm and sector issues.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
Join Richard Clough on farm, alongside local farmers, to connect, learn and discuss current on-farm and sector issues.
Lunch provided.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
In partnership with Federated Farmers of New Zealand and DairyNZ, this Contract Milking course will cover:
This free course is suitable for contract milkers or variable order sharemilkers, or dairy farmers intending to go contract milking within the next 18 months. The course includes 4 in-person workshops which will take place in Opunake on 15 October, 29 October, 12 November and 26 November.
Luke and Jen Templeton are 5th generation farmers from coastal Riverton, running their family farm that was converted to dairy in 2002. They operate a 675 cow, 220ha effective system 4 farm in a challenging location, where performance is driven by a focus on production, feed utilisation and sustainable profit that suits the needs of the land.
Over the past three years, they have harvested an average of 13 tDM/ha of homegrown feed, produced 108% kgMS/kgLWT and 1,530 kgMS/ha, and ranked in the top 15% of DairyBase for operating profit per hectare.
Louise Cook from Fonterra will discuss what the regional and national data is telling us about the link between profit and emissions intensity, and how to get the best from your Farm Insights Report (FIR).
At this Progressing Dairy Event you’ll hear more about:
DairyNZ tools to assist with this topic include the Pasture and Crop Eaten Calculator.
If you're a Fonterra farmer, bring your FIR with you to look through and check out the Fonterra Emissions Scenario Calculator.
Lunch provided.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
Join Emma Roche on her farm, alongside local farmers, to connect, learn and discuss current on-farm and sector issues.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
Beef and Lamb and the West Coast Catchments Team is proud to bring the rural ladies event – Boots and Bubbles to three locations across the West Coast.
This event follows Beef and Lamb’s successful ladies lunch - Sowing seeds of success, in Greymouth last year. These three fabulous evenings are an opportunity for all women connected with agriculture and the rural sector to step off-farm, connect with other like-minded women and feel refreshed and empowered.
These evenings will include hearing from two awesome local speakers who will chat about their love for working on the land and how they juggle family, business, and wellbeing. Along with a warm meal, laughs and plenty of quality spot prizes from sponsors such as Bushbuck, Kaiwaka, H&S Heritage, vouchers for local getaways, dining and lots more.
Rural ladies will be able to enjoy a casual and relaxed evening off farm with other relatable rural women and leave feeling empowered and with their cup filled.
This is an R18+ event
Event Timing - Start 5.30pm | Finish 9.30pm
Cost: Free
Register by: Friday 10th October
Join Nick Taylor on farm, alongside local farmers, to connect, learn and discuss current on-farm and sector issues.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
This course will cover:
This free course is suitable for emerging leaders including 2IC's, herd managers, and new managers. Participants will require support and guidance from on-farm seniors. The course includes four in-person workshops held in between milkings on 16 October, 30 October, 13 November and 27 November.
Join us on farm with hosts April and Jason Dibble, who have owned their Waitaha dairy farm since the 2023/24 season. Hear how they maximise pasture growth, utilise imported feed and various crops and pasture swards within their system. Also, how their 2024/25 season compares with previous years through DairyBase benchmarks, following a tough climatic season, andwhat they’ve learned from the shift to the Coast.
DairyNZ Area Manager Dayne Paton will share regional strategies to boost dry matter yield per hectare, cost -effective pasture measurement and management tools you can use on-farm, and future-focused science to help keep your farm profitable and sustainable.
At this Progressing Dairy Event, you’ll hear more about:
DairyNZ tools that can assist on this topic include FeedChecker, Pasture and Crop Eaten Calculator and Supplement Price Calculator.
BBQ lunch kindly provided by Westland Milk Products and supported by RST.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
Join Kevin and Caroline Harrison on farm, alongside local farmers, to connect, learn and discuss current on-farm and sector issues.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
Beef and Lamb and the West Coast Catchments Team is proud to bring the rural ladies event – Boots and Bubbles to three locations across the West Coast.
This event follows Beef and Lamb’s successful ladies lunch – Sowing seeds of success, in Greymouth last year. These three fabulous evenings are an opportunity for all women connected with agriculture and the rural sector to step off-farm, connect with other like-minded women and feel refreshed and empowered.
These evenings will include hearing from two awesome local speakers who will chat about their love for working on the land and how they juggle family, business, and wellbeing. Along with a warm meal, laughs and plenty of quality spot prizes from sponsors such as Bushbuck, Kaiwaka, H&S Heritage, vouchers for local getaways, dining and lots more.
Rural ladies will be able to enjoy a casual and relaxed evening off farm with other relatable rural women and leave feeling empowered and with their cup filled.
This is an R18+ event
Event Timing – Start 5.30pm | Finish 9.30pm
Cost: Free
Register by: Friday 10th October
Women's Health & Wellbeing Evening for Farmers. Come along to dinner and a chat with women's health professionals.
This event will provide you with the practical tools, knowledge, and support to strengthen your health and wellbeing - ensuring you can continue to perform at your best on farm, in business, and in family life.
Guest Speakers:
- Dr Jill Delvin: Genecology Specialist, Honour Women's Health
- Chris Gray - Clinical Nurse, Honour Women's Health & Health Space
- Erica Snowden - Pelvic Health & Orthopedic Physiatrist, Full Circle Physiotherapy
- Steph Dirksen: Nutritionist, Beauty Therapist & Posture Coach, Wellness From Within
In collaboration with NZAB, Rural Support Trust Taranaki, Dairy NZ, Dairy Womens Network, MPI On farm support team
Beef and Lamb and the West Coast Catchments Team is proud to bring the rural ladies event – Boots and Bubbles to three locations across the West Coast.
This event follows Beef and Lamb’s successful ladies lunch – Sowing seeds of success, in Greymouth last year. These three fabulous evenings are an opportunity for all women connected with agriculture and the rural sector to step off-farm, connect with other like-minded women and feel refreshed and empowered.
These evenings will include hearing from two awesome local speakers who will chat about their love for working on the land and how they juggle family, business, and wellbeing. Along with a warm meal, laughs and plenty of quality spot prizes from sponsors such as Bushbuck, Kaiwaka, H&S Heritage, vouchers for local getaways, dining and lots more.
Rural ladies will be able to enjoy a casual and relaxed evening off farm with other relatable rural women and leave feeling empowered and with their cup filled.
This is an R18+ event
Event Timing – Start 5.30pm | Finish 9.30pm
Cost: Free
Register by: Friday 10th October
Out in the paddock or the orchard, help isn’t always close by. Having the right first aid skills can make all the difference in a time of medical emergency!
Join Hato Hone St John for an interactive, practical, and hands-on course tailored and designed with the agricultural sector in mind. This 4-hour course is ideal for anyone who doesn’t require NZQA unit standards to learn the basics of first aid!
You’ll learn how to:
What you will gain:
Be ready for anything — gain the skills and confidence to step up when it counts. Book your spot today!
RSVP by: Monday 13th October
Cost: $113.04+GST per person (total price $130 inc GST) - includes morning tea and lunch
Event Timing: Start 9.30am | Finish 2.30pm
Join Sally Coombe & Andrew Darke from CMK Chartered Accountants and the Agribusiness Manager from Rabobank for a practical seminar designed to help farmers become financially fit and bank-ready.
We’ll guide you through the essential elements of understanding your current financial position — from setting clear goals and knowing what you want to achieve, to building confidence in your numbers around equity, cashflow, and overall business performance.
With practical insights and real examples, you’ll learn how to present your financial position in a way that resonates with lenders, putting you in the best possible position to secure bank finance and plan with confidence for the future growth of your farm.
This workshop is brought to you by CMK Chartered Accountants and Rabobank
Event timing:
Cost:
Join us on farm with the Shearers and Russ’s who have owned their Reefton dairy farm since the middle of the 2024/25 season. Hear how they maximise pasture growth and utilise imported feed within their system. Also, how their 2024/25 season compares to other years through DairyBase benchmarks following a tough climatic season and how the progression to farm ownership and shift to the Coast has fared for them.
DairyNZ Area Manager Dayne Paton will share regional strategies to boost dry matter yield per hectare, cost-effective pasture measurement and management tools you can use on farm, and future-focused science to help keep your farm profitable and sustainable.
At this Progressing Dairy Event, you’ll hear more about:
DairyNZ tools that can assist on this topic include FeedChecker, Pasture and Crop Eaten Calculator and Supplement Price Calculator.
BBQ lunch kindly provided by Westland Milk Products and supported by RST.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
Join this discussion group at Ivan & Denise Hoppers farm, along with daughter Kelly-Anne, to connect with local farmers and explore current on-farm and sector issues.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
Attracting and keeping great staff is one of the biggest challenges farmers face.
Join us on-farm with farm owner Graham Robinson, along with Sam Ebbett, Federated Farmers Sharefarmer Dairy Executive member and contract milker, to hear practical advice on building a workplace where people want to work and stay.
You'll gain practical knowledge and tools to help you make informed decisions - when looking for a job or hiring staff.
Hear from:
We'll explore:
Farmers who are hiring now, looking for a new job, or are planning ahead are encouraged to attend.
Lunch provided.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
Join Sally Coombe & Andrew Darke from CMK Chartered Accountants and the Agribusiness Manager from Rabobank for a practical seminar designed to help farmers become financially fit and bank-ready.
We’ll guide you through the essential elements of understanding your current financial position — from setting clear goals and knowing what you want to achieve, to building confidence in your numbers around equity, cashflow, and overall business performance.
With practical insights and real examples, you’ll learn how to present your financial position in a way that resonates with lenders, putting you in the best possible position to secure bank finance and plan with confidence for the future growth of your farm.
This workshop is brought to you by CMK Chartered Accountants and Rabobank
Event timing:
Cost:
Join Nic and Kirsty Verhoek, alongside local farmers and take the time to connect, learn and discuss current on-farm and sector issues.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
Jason and Hayley Hunt are focused on farming profitably while managing a low environmental impact. They also showcase the region’s largest calf shed, rearing a total of 840 calves this season.
Join us on-farm to hear what levers they are pulling to do this, including:
At this Progressing Dairy Event you’ll hear more about:
DairyNZ tools to assist with this topic include:
If you're a Fonterra farmer, bring your FIR with you to look through and check out the Fonterra Emissions Scenario Calculator.
Lunch provided.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
Join us on-farm with hosts Eli and Susannah Vollebregt to understand how creating a productive workplace through visual planning and tools can improve farm organisation and efficiency.
Gemma Adams from Vizlink will share her experience using visual planning and organisation methods that you can put to work in your farm system.
Find out more about:
This event is designed for farmers who have staff or want to improve their on-farm productivity and efficiency.
Lunch kindly provided by Vizlink.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
Safe farms are productive and profitable farms. When you and your team know how to manage risks and equipment properly, you reduce downtime, avoid injuries, and keep operations running smoothly.
Our hosts, Kurt and Katie-Rose Parry, are 50/50 sharemilkers and the owners of Rosemount Charolais, a successful business breeding and selling Charolais stud bulls.
Join us on-farm at Rosemount Charolais, alongside local experts, for a hands-on workshop with practical demonstrations.
Find out more about:
Hear From:
Farm owners, managers, and staff who want to improve health, safety, and efficiency are encouraged to attend this event.
Lunch kindly provided by FieldTorque.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
Join this discussion group at Emma & Dave Campbells farm to connect with local farmers and explore current on-farm and sector issues.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
Out in the paddock or the orchard, help isn’t always close by. Having the right first aid skills can make all the difference in a time of medical emergency!
Join Hato Hone St John for an interactive, practical, and hands-on course tailored and designed with the agricultural sector in mind. This 4-hour course is ideal for anyone who doesn’t require NZQA unit standards to learn the basics of first aid!
You’ll learn how to:
What you will gain:
Be ready for anything — gain the skills and confidence to step up when it counts. Book your spot today!
RSVP by: Friday 17th October
Cost: $113.04+GST per person (total price $130 inc GST) - includes morning tea and lunch
Event Timing: Start 9.30am | Finish 2.30pm
Join Regan O'Brien on farm, alongside local farmers, to connect, learn and discuss current on-farm and sector issues.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
Join John and Katheryn Blythe alongside local farmers and take the time to connect, learn and discuss current on-farm and sector issues.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
Join this discussion group at Caleb & Paula Hamill's farm to connect with local farmers and explore current on-farm and sector issues.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
Join this discussion group at Dave and Clare’s farm to connect with local farmers and explore current on-farm and sector issues.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
You are warmly invited to join us for a Halloween Paint & Sip evening. This will be a relaxed and creative event where you can enjoy a drink, connect with others, and take home your very own Halloween-inspired artwork. You don’t need to be the next Picasso! Everyone can follow our simple method and create a spooktacular masterpiece! 🎃 🎨👻
Join us for a fun night of painting a spooky picture – just in time for Halloween.
Bring along a friend, a neighbour, your staff, or even your partner. All welcome!
BYO your drinks – Nibbles and non alcoholic drinks will be provided.
Spaces are limited, so please register as soon as possible to secure your spot.
Event Timing: Start 6.30pm | Finish 9pm
Cost: $30 per person
RSVP by: Monday 27th October
Join us at Eweburn to talk about farming performance in an integrated farming system and have a look around the farm:
Thanks to Halter and LIC for their support for this event.
Join Paul Sands and Jannine Maxwell on farm, alongside local farmers, to connect, learn and discuss current on-farm and sector issues.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
This course will cover:
This free course is suitable for 2IC's, farm managers, self-employed farmers and farm owners. The course includes four in-person workshops held in between milkings on 31 October, 7 November, 21 November and 5 December.
Join us to visit Andrew and Vicky Booth’s farm, managed by Jen Summerell, which has been set up with the aim of being run profitably and efficiently by a single person. The Booths’ farm is 100 ha (85 eff), milking 240 Friesian cross cows OAD through a 28 aside HB shed, producing 400 kg MS/cow/year. The Booths use all bulls for their mating, buying in carry-over cows as replacements.
Traditional ryegrass/white clover pastures often do not produce well or persist in Northland. Diverse pastures can be a viable alternative. We will look at how and why the Booths are introducing diverse pasture in combination with summer crops (turnips and greenfeed maize) into their system. Daniel Hawkins, Northland Seed and Supplies, and a local farmer will talk about the pros and cons of diverse pastures, and how you can successfully include them into your system.
How many hours do you spend in the shed each day? Josh Wheeler, QCONZ, and Nick Dowson, farmer, will share practical ways you can smarten up your act to benefit you, your cows, and your bottom line. This session will include: possible cost-effective labour-saving strategies, such as MaxT, options to streamline your milking routine, optimising your milking machine to improve milking speed, and how a change in milking interval e.g. OAD or 3n2, might work for you.
Andrew and Vicky have 15 ha of hilly bush land. They are investigating the best options for making the most of this area. Graham Smith, dairy farmer and NZ Farm Forestry member, has successfully gained carbon credits for areas of his farm, he will explain the process and how he achieved it. Free event, all welcome. Come along and bring your friends! Morning tea and lunch provided.
Join us on-farm with hosts, Elly and Kale Grahame, who are focused on farming profitably with a low environmental impact. On their farm, they’ve successfully reduced purchased nitrogen surplus by converting imported N products, improved herd performance, and refined feed and pasture management to boost production.
DairyNZ Principal Scientist, Jane Kay, will share the science behind how growing and using homegrown feed effectively, optimising cow performance, and using imported feed strategically can increase profitability while reducing emissions.
Building on this, a Fonterra representative will discuss what the regional and national data is telling us about the link between profit and emissions intensity, and how to get the best from your Farm Insights Report (FIR) to support decision-making on your farm.
At this Progressing Dairy Event, you’ll hear more about:
Lunch kindly provided by Fonterra.
Register here.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
Andrew Pritchard is focused on farming profitably while managing a low environmental impact.
Join us on-farm to hear what levers he’s pulling to do this – including what’s working, what he would do differently, and what he has planned for the seasons ahead.
DairyNZ Principal Scientist, Jane Kay, will share the science behind how growing and using homegrown feed effectively, optimising cow performance, and using imported feed strategically can increase profitability while reducing emissions.
Building on this, a representative from Fonterra will discuss what the regional and national data is telling us about the link between profit and emissions intensity. They’ll also cover how to get the best from your Farm Insights Report (FIR) to support decision-making on your farm.
At this Progressing Dairy Event, you’ll hear more about:
DairyNZ tools to assist with this topic include the Pasture and Crop Eaten Calculator
Lunch provided.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
Out in the paddock or the orchard, help isn’t always close by. Having the right first aid skills can make all the difference in a time of medical emergency!
Join Hato Hone St John for an interactive, practical, and hands-on course tailored and designed with the agricultural sector in mind. This 4-hour course is ideal for anyone who doesn’t require NZQA unit standards to learn the basics of first aid!
You’ll learn how to:
What you will gain:
Be ready for anything — gain the skills and confidence to step up when it counts. Book your spot today!
RSVP by: Thursday 30th October
Cost: $113.04+GST per person (total price $130 inc GST) - includes morning tea and lunch
Event Timing: Start 9.30am | Finish 2.30pm
Farm owners Murray and Kathy Mead, along with their sharemilkers Hamish and Petra Mead, are focused on farming profitably with a low environmental impact. As a result, Murray and Kathy’s two farms rank among the lowest in emissions intensity across South Taranaki, all while remaining profitable.
Join us on-farm to hear from Hamish about the levers they’re using – including their new solar system, diversifying their pastures, using alternative fertilisers, and having a strong focus on animal health, genetics, efficiency, and reproduction.
DairyNZ Principal Scientist, Jane Kay, will share the science behind how growing and using homegrown feed effectively, optimising cow performance, and using imported feed strategically can increase profitability while reducing emissions.
Building on this, a representative from Fonterra will discuss what the regional and national data is telling us about the link between profit and emissions intensity. They’ll also cover how to get the best from your Farm Insights Report (FIR) to support decision-making on your farm.
At this Progressing Dairy Event you’ll hear more about:
Lunch provided.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
This course will cover:
This free course is suitable for managers, self-employed or those considering self-employment. The course includes six online classes on 6 November, 13 November, 20 November, 27 November, 4 December and 11 December.
Out in the paddock or the orchard, help isn’t always close by. Having the right first aid skills can make all the difference in a time of medical emergency!
Join Hato Hone St John for an interactive, practical, and hands-on course tailored and designed with the agricultural sector in mind. This 4-hour course is ideal for anyone who doesn’t require NZQA unit standards to learn the basics of first aid!
You’ll learn how to:
What you will gain:
Be ready for anything — gain the skills and confidence to step up when it counts. Book your spot today!
RSVP by: Monday 3rd November
Cost: $113.04+GST per person (total price $130 inc GST) - includes morning tea and lunch
Event Timing: Start 9.30am | Finish 2.30pm
Out in the paddock or the orchard, help isn’t always close by. Having the right first aid skills can make all the difference in a time of medical emergency!
Join Hato Hone St John for an interactive, practical, and hands-on course tailored and designed with the agricultural sector in mind. This 4-hour course is ideal for anyone who doesn’t require NZQA unit standards to learn the basics of first aid!
You’ll learn how to:
What you will gain:
Be ready for anything — gain the skills and confidence to step up when it counts. Book your spot today!
RSVP by: Tuesday 4th November
Cost: $113.04+GST per person (total price $130 inc GST) - includes morning tea and lunch
Event Timing: Start 9.30am | Finish 2.30pm
This isn't about starting over – it's about building on your existing strengths. We'll show you how to integrate these three species to create a more resilient and profitable operation.
You'll learn how to make the most of your land, manage grazing to improve pastures, and tap into new markets and opportunities. Discover how adding sheep, beef or deer to your operation can give you a "full house" of benefits, from year-round cash flow to a stronger, more sustainable business for the future.
A collaboration between Beef + Lamb New Zealand, NZ Deer Farmers Association, and Deer Industry New Zealand.
Practical Compliance and Full Potential, supported by Taranaki Catchment Communities are partnering to bring you free, comprehensive Farm Health and Safety workshops.
Because a healthy farm starts with a healthy crew! Designed by health and safety experts grounded in the practicalities of farming.
Improve your farm’s safety, and your team’s wellbeing, now and for the future, by engaging the whole team in practicable, common sense solutions. You’ll leave with a detailed Health and Safety profile for your operations and a practical plan covering key areas.
• A half-day workshop: 10am - 2.30pm
• Spaces limited, only 14 farms per workshop
What you'll gain:
• Benefit from practical expertise: We cover industry and regulatory requirements of course, with the true value in the no-nonsense application planning and support for real impact on-site.
• An understanding of the impacts of different health and safety approaches: Learn about four different approaches to health and safety, and the key risks, impacts and opportunities for each one.
• Reframe Health and Safety from painful to practical: You’re already focused on keeping people safe; easily document the steps you are already taking to identify gaps and create a clear plan to polish up operational H&S where needed.
• A Practical Measurement Tool:Use our Worksafe guided diagnostic tool to assess where your farm is on its Health and Safety journey.
• Free Resources:Access free easy, stress-free, scaleable resources to remove compliance confusion with planning guides for 5 key areas: Hazard Management and Register builder, H&S Meeting template, A learning review approach to Incident investigation flow chart, Worksafe Hazardous Substances Calculator, and Contractor Management.
• Navigate new regulations:Get clear on what’s required, why it matters, and how it benefits you. With almost 50% of NZ farms taking a passive approach to health and safety, these workshops will do more than just assist you in meeting your obligations.
• Harness the benefits of a dynamic H&S approach: Tap into the wisdom of the experts in the workshop and on your team to see a safer, happier, healthier workforce, reduced costs, and improved efficiency.
• Action planning:Develop on-farm actions for managing hazards, running effective Health and Safety meetings with the team, learning from incidents and close-calls, and managing contractors on site.
• Community support:Join a network of farmers, share and learn from each other.
• Increased confidence:Leave the workshops feeling confident and capable of maintaining a supportive and safe working environment for you and your people.
• Phone Support:Friendly, patient, and well-organised support. You’ll get access to a free follow up (phone) session to track your progress or clear up any tricky questions.
This workshop is designed to give students an overview of issues relating to lameness management and introduce them to the 5-step trimming process.
The workshop has 5 on-line learning modules totaling 90 minutes which must be completed before the practical trimming day. On the day of the workshop you will need to bring your gumboots, overalls, clothing suitable for the weather and your lunch.
What you will learn
Free Course Textbook: “Foot Care in Cattle”
Cost: $415 + GST
Another Option:
GROUP DAYS – are catered to a farm/community where the farm/farm group organises the students to attend and the Dairy Hoofcare Institute delivers the training.
Group days options are available with the following costings (*conditions apply):
If this is an option you are interested in please phone 03 662 8015 or complete the Group day enquiry form below the references.
Out in the paddock or the orchard, help isn’t always close by. Having the right first aid skills can make all the difference in a time of medical emergency!
Join Hato Hone St John for an interactive, practical, and hands-on course tailored and designed with the agricultural sector in mind. This 4-hour course is ideal for anyone who doesn’t require NZQA unit standards to learn the basics of first aid!
You’ll learn how to:
What you will gain:
Be ready for anything — gain the skills and confidence to step up when it counts. Book your spot today!
RSVP by: Tuesday 11th November
Cost: $113.04+GST per person (total price $130 inc GST) - includes morning tea and lunch
Event Timing: Start 9.30am | Finish 2.30pm
This workshop is designed to give students an overview of issues relating to lameness management and introduce them to the 5-step functional trimming process.
The workshop has 5 on-line learning modules totaling 90 minutes which must be completed before the practical trimming day. On the day of the workshop you will need to bring your gumboots, overalls, clothing suitable for the weather and your lunch.
What you will learn
Free Course Textbook: “Foot Care in Cattle”
Cost: $415 + GST
Another Option:
GROUP DAYS – are catered to a farm/community where the farm/farm group organises the students to attend and the Dairy Hoofcare Institute delivers the training.
Group days options are available with the following costings (*conditions apply):
If this is an option you are interested in please phone 03 662 8015 or complete the Group day enquiry form below the references.
This workshop is designed to give students an overview of issues relating to lameness management and introduce them to the 5-step trimming process.
The workshop has 5 on-line learning modules totaling 90 minutes which must be completed before the practical trimming day. On the day of the workshop you will need to bring your gumboots, overalls, clothing suitable for the weather and your lunch.
What you will learn
Free Course Textbook: “Foot Care in Cattle”
Cost: $415 + GST
Another Option:
GROUP DAYS – are catered to a farm/community where the farm/farm group organises the students to attend and the Dairy Hoofcare Institute delivers the training.
Group days options are available with the following costings (*conditions apply):
If this is an option you are interested in please phone 03 662 8015 or complete the Group day enquiry form below the references.
This workshop is designed to give students an overview of issues relating to lameness management and introduce them to the 5-step trimming process.
The workshop has 5 on-line learning modules totaling 90 minutes which must be completed before the practical trimming day. On the day of the workshop you will need to bring your gumboots, overalls, clothing suitable for the weather and your lunch.
What you will learn
Free Course Textbook: “Foot Care in Cattle”
Cost: $415 + GST
Another Option:
GROUP DAYS – are catered to a farm/community where the farm/farm group organises the students to attend and the Dairy Hoofcare Institute delivers the training.
Group days options are available with the following costings (*conditions apply):
If this is an option you are interested in please phone 03 662 8015 or complete the Group day enquiry form below the references.
This workshop is designed to give students an overview of issues relating to lameness management and introduce them to the 5-step trimming process.
The workshop has 5 on-line learning modules totaling 90 minutes which must be completed before the practical trimming day. On the day of the workshop you will need to bring your gumboots, overalls, clothing suitable for the weather and your lunch.
What you will learn
Free Course Textbook: “Foot Care in Cattle”
Cost: $415 + GST
Another Option:
GROUP DAYS – are catered to a farm/community where the farm/farm group organises the students to attend and the Dairy Hoofcare Institute delivers the training.
Group days options are available with the following costings (*conditions apply):
If this is an option you are interested in please phone 03 662 8015 or complete the Group day enquiry form below the references.
This workshop is designed to give students an overview of issues relating to lameness management and introduce them to the 5-step trimming process.
The workshop has 5 on-line learning modules totaling 90 minutes which must be completed before the practical trimming day. On the day of the workshop you will need to bring your gumboots, overalls, clothing suitable for the weather and your lunch.
What you will learn
Free Course Textbook: “Foot Care in Cattle”
Cost: $415 + GST
Another Option:
GROUP DAYS – are catered to a farm/community where the farm/farm group organises the students to attend and the Dairy Hoofcare Institute delivers the training.
Group days options are available with the following costings (*conditions apply):
If this is an option you are interested in please phone 03 662 8015 or complete the Group day enquiry form below the references.
Join this discussion group at Ben Worker & Jamie McCrostie's farm to connect with local farmers and explore current on-farm and sector issues.
Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.
This workshop is designed to give students an overview of issues relating to lameness management and introduce them to the 5-step trimming process.
The workshop has 5 on-line learning modules totaling 90 minutes which must be completed before the practical trimming day. On the day of the workshop you will need to bring your gumboots, overalls, clothing suitable for the weather and your lunch.
What you will learn
Free Course Textbook: “Foot Care in Cattle”
Cost: $415 + GST
Another Option:
GROUP DAYS – are catered to a farm/community where the farm/farm group organises the students to attend and the Dairy Hoofcare Institute delivers the training.
Group days options are available with the following costings (*conditions apply):
If this is an option you are interested in please phone 03 662 8015 or complete the Group day enquiry form below the references.
Out in the paddock or the orchard, help isn’t always close by. Having the right first aid skills can make all the difference in a time of medical emergency!
Join Hato Hone St John for an interactive, practical, and hands-on course tailored and designed with the agricultural sector in mind. This 4-hour course is ideal for anyone who doesn’t require NZQA unit standards to learn the basics of first aid!
You’ll learn how to:
What you will gain:
Be ready for anything — gain the skills and confidence to step up when it counts. Book your spot today!
RSVP by: Thursday 20th November
Cost: $113.04+GST per person (total price $130 inc GST) - includes morning tea and lunch
Event Timing: Start 9.30am | Finish 2.30pm
Pasture Summit Spring Event in Canterbury
Pasture Summit is holding an on-farm event in Canterbury this Spring, hosted by farmers for farmers, sharing ideas and developments on achieving profitable dairy food production, with input from dairy sector specialists, and kindly supported by DairyNZ.
Hosted by Mick and Kirsten O'Connor, 242 Burdons Road, Burnham
Arrival, registration and morning tea from 9:30am
Sessions start at 10am, and the event finishes around 2:30pm
Lunch is provided, and registration is required
The registration fee of $42+gst per person includes online payment processing fees and covers the event sessions, morning tea, refreshments, lunch, printed event materials, and access to all content. As a not-for-profit group, Pasture Summit events are possible due to the generous support from our partners and sponsors, as well as registration income from attendees.
You're invited to a Pāmu Open Farm Day, including a farm tour and lunch.
Join us at Hanmer to talk about farm systems changes that lift performance and secure premiums:
Register now to secure a free spot and receive more information. We look forward to welcoming you.
Pāmu Open Farm Days are one way we share our experiences and insights, often in partnership with industry bodies, community groups, and rural businesses. These events play a vital role in demonstrating the Pāmu contribution to New Zealand’s agricultural sector — adding value, fostering innovation, and reinforcing the State-owned Enterprise’s broader purpose. They are a chance for our local farmers and agribusinesses to build connections, share their knowledge, and deliver extension activities.
Join us to hear about Al McFetridge’s 64 ha farm (plus 23 ha lease) where he milks 200 Friesian cross cows producing 400 kg MS/cow/year. He aims to run a simple system, a goal which was reinforced after a serious on-farm accident last year. Al has just completed a rebuild of his dairy shed, installing a rotary platform and upgrading his yards and effluent infrastructure.
Al uses a combination of pasture and cropping to meet summer feed demands. Graham Kerr and Bruce Paterson, Barenbrug, will talk about how to optimise your summer pasture production and manage your pastures so they persist. Alan Bunning, Pioneer, and Shaun Broderick, Ballance, will also take us through how you can select the right crop for your system and how to ensure optimal yields from your chosen crop variety.
How are the weeds looking on your place? Have you got them under control? Weeds like Californian thistle, yellow bristle grass, willow weed, and docks can be a real nuisance, but we have a weed expert coming to tell you how to get rid of them! Richard Bell, Nufarm, will talk about: gaining control of weeds in existing pastures, the key strategies to keep weeds out of new grass, and controlling weeds in crops.
Al milks his cows OAD all season. Research has shown that 10% of farmers use OAD all year, while 35% use it for part of the year. Alicia Riley, farm consultant, will explain how you can determine if OAD will suit your system, its pros and cons, transitioning to and making the most out of it, and how you can tackle possible challenges associated with it. Free event, all welcome. Come along and bring your friends! Morning tea and lunch provided.
This workshop is designed to give students an overview of issues relating to lameness management and introduce them to the 5-step trimming process.
The workshop has 5 on-line learning modules totaling 90 minutes which must be completed before the practical trimming day. On the day of the workshop you will need to bring your gumboots, overalls, clothing suitable for the weather and your lunch.
What you will learn
Free Course Textbook: “Foot Care in Cattle”
Cost: $415 + GST
Another Option:
GROUP DAYS – are catered to a farm/community where the farm/farm group organises the students to attend and the Dairy Hoofcare Institute delivers the training.
Group days options are available with the following costings (*conditions apply):
If this is an option you are interested in please phone 03 662 8015 or complete the Group day enquiry form below the references.
Hosted by DairyNZ, with a discount for dairy farmers via Early Bird registration.
This event brings together global researchers, farmers, advisors, and tech developers to explore the latest in automation, sensors, robotics, and data-driven insights shaping the future of dairy.
Providing real-world insights into how precision tools and technologies are shaping the future of the dairy industry, it includes farm visits, keynote speakers and a farmer panel.
This course is aimed at those who are serious about minimising lameness on their farm through gaining a more comprehensive understanding of the contributing factors, as well as becoming competent in the technical aspects of hoof trimming. If you would like to become a professional hoof trimmer, or more competent on farm when treating your herds hooves or add a specific skill to your veterinary practice to offer to your clients then this course is for you.
This is an intensive 5-day course that covers both the theory and the practice of hoof care and hoof trimming techniques led by our director Fred Hoekstra, who is New Zealand’s only fully qualified hoof care instructor.
· Hoof Care Theory
· Foot Anatomy and function
· Recognition and treatment of claw disease
· Lameness prevention
· The relationship between Nutrition and Lameness
· Lameness treatment
· Preventative hoof trimming (shaping the claw correctly)
· Use of angle grinder for hoof trimming.
· Application of claw blocks
· Knife Sharpening
· Hoof Trimming tools and accessories
Location: Course is presented at DHI headquarters and on host farms.
Time: Five days – 8:30am to 5pm
Free Course Textbook:“Hoof Signals – Success factors for healthy hoofs” (supplied)
Cost:$2,750+GST
Pasture Summit Spring Event in Taranaki
Pasture Summit is holding an on-farm event in Taranaki this Spring, hosted by farmers for farmers, sharing ideas and developments on achieving profitable dairy food production, with input from dairy sector specialists, and kindly supported by DairyNZ.
Hosted by the Armstrong family with Dan & Monique Newell (CM), Eltham Road farm, Te Kiri
Arrival, registration and morning tea from 9:30am
Sessions start at 10am, and the event finishes around 2pm
Lunch is provided, and registration is required
The registration fee of $42+gst per person includes online payment processing fees and covers the event sessions, morning tea, refreshments, lunch, printed event materials, and access to all content. As a not-for-profit group, Pasture Summit events are possible due to the generous support from our partners and sponsors, as well as registration income from attendees.
Miraka Suppliers are invited to register for the social event of the year. Register as an individual or as a team.
Industry partners who wish to support this event by means of sponsorship, please contact:
Yolandi Nortje
yolandi.nortje@miraka.co.nz
021 647 110
Come along to see who our winners are for the Hawkes Bay/Wairarapa Dairy Industry awards.
Tickets to go on sale Jan 2026
Come along to celebrate the winners of Share Farmer of the year, Dairy Manager of the year and Dairy Trainee of the year.
Tickets will go on sale January 2026
Come along to celebrate the winners of Share Farmer of the year, Dairy Manager of the year and Dairy Trainee of the year.
Tickets will go on sale January 2026
Come along to celebrate the winners of Share Farmer of the year, Dairy Manager of the year and Dairy Trainee of the year.
Tickets will go on sale January 2026
Come along to celebrate the winners of Share Farmer of the year, Dairy Manager of the year and Dairy Trainee of the year.
Tickets will go on sale January 2026
Come along to celebrate the winners of Share Farmer of the year, Dairy Manager of the year and Dairy Trainee of the year.
Tickets will go on sale January 2026
Come along to celebrate the winners of Share Farmer of the year, Dairy Manager of the year and Dairy Trainee of the year.
Tickets will go on sale January 2026
Come along to celebrate the winners of Share Farmer of the year, Dairy Manager of the year and Dairy Trainee of the year.
Tickets will go on sale January 2026
Come along to celebrate the winners of Share Farmer of the year, Dairy Manager of the year and Dairy Trainee of the year.
Tickets will go on sale January 2026
Come along to celebrate the winners of Share Farmer of the year, Dairy Manager of the year and Dairy Trainee of the year.
Tickets will go on sale January 2026
Come along to celebrate the winners of Share Farmer of the year, Dairy Manager of the year and Dairy Trainee of the year.
Tickets will go on sale January 2026
Established in 1998, we provide a forum for those involved in the South Island dairy industry to evaluate and apply knowledge, skills and technology to their business. SIDE has grown to become New Zealand’s premier dairy conference and the largest event of its type in the country.
This course is aimed at those who are serious about minimising lameness on their farm through gaining a more comprehensive understanding of the contributing factors, as well as becoming competent in the technical aspects of hoof trimming. If you would like to become a professional hoof trimmer, or more competent on farm when treating your herds hooves or add a specific skill to your veterinary practice to offer to your clients then this course is for you.
This is an intensive 5-day course that covers both the theory and the practice of hoof care and hoof trimming techniques led by our director Fred Hoekstra, who is New Zealand’s only fully qualified hoof care instructor.
· Hoof Care Theory
· Foot Anatomy and function
· Recognition and treatment of claw disease
· Lameness prevention
· The relationship between Nutrition and Lameness
· Lameness treatment
· Preventative hoof trimming (shaping the claw correctly)
· Use of angle grinder for hoof trimming.
· Application of claw blocks
· Knife Sharpening
· Hoof Trimming tools and accessories
Location: Course is presented at DHI headquarters and on host farms.
Time: Five days – 8:30am to 5pm
Free Course Textbook:“Hoof Signals – Success factors for healthy hoofs” (supplied)
Cost:$2,750+GST
