DAIRY Country

Hosted by CountryWide Network

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Episodes

100

Latest episode

Aug 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

DAIRY Country is your mainstay in dairy farming as your trusted source for adding value to your dairy farming business with seasonal on farm stories and exclusive technical advice weekly with your host, Anne Lee. Formally the NZ Dairy Exporter since 1925, DAIRY Country is part of the CountryWide network based in Canterbury, New Zealand. Get in touch with our Anne Lee - anne@countrywidemedia.co.nz if you have a great insight to share with our thousands of readers and listeners in New Zealand and around the world. Don’t miss our weekly episodes of the DAIRY Country Podcast by hitting the subscribe button now and join our DAIRY Country weekly email newsletter to get the latest in-depth stories in your mailbox so you are always ahead of the game in the business of dairy farming into the future.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

August 13, 202641 min

Episode 124 - Updates needed to law and agreements

Share farming and contract milking agreements are a fundamental part of New Zealand’s dairy industry, but are the contracts and legislation governing them still fit for purpose? Anne Lee speaks with The Sharefarming Consultants’ Louise Gibson and AgFirst’s Lycinda Lett about the challenges facing farm owners, contract milkers and share farmers, and why they believe the legal framework needs a refresh. Host: Anne Lee, Senior Journalist, Dairy Country Guests: Louise Gibson, Co-Founder, The Sharefarming Consultants Lycinda Lett, Consultant, AgFirst Louise and Lycinda discuss gaps in the Sharemilking Agreements Act, the growing use of contract milking and the risks of relying on contract law. Anne, Louise and Lycinda also explore the importance of clear agreements and farm policies, power imbalances, disputes and mediation, guaranteed minimum returns and withheld milk payments, as well as the changes Louise and Lycinda believe could provide greater security and support successful business partnerships. Sign up to the weekly DAIRY Country email newsletter here: https://dairycountry.co.nz/sign-up/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

August 6, 202624 min

Episode 123 - Improving herds through DNA testing

DNA testing is transforming dairy breeding by giving farmers greater confidence in parentage and allowing more accurate genetic information to be fed into breeding models. Anne Lee speaks with CRV myDNA Programme Manager Connie McFarlane about how DNA testing and genomics are helping farmers improve herd performance, from verifying calf parentage to increasing the reliability of breeding values and genetic indexes. Host: Anne Lee, Senior Journalist, Dairy Country Guest: Connie McFarlane, myDNA Programme Manager, CRV Connie explains why around one in four calves can be mismatched to their dams without DNA testing, and how tissue sampling and genomic analysis provide a much clearer picture of an animal's true genetic potential. Anne and Connie also discuss how farmers are using genomic information to identify replacement heifers and select cows for beef or sexed semen, the importance of building larger genomic reference populations, how DNA testing is accelerating genetic gain in both dairy cows and bulls, and the future opportunities for genomic traits including hoof health, mastitis resistance and genetic defect screening. Sign up to the weekly DAIRY Country email newsletter here: https://dairycountry.co.nz/sign-up/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

July 30, 202637 min

Episode 122 - Following the milk price signals

Global dairy markets have entered a period of correction after two years of exceptionally strong prices, with growing milk production putting downward pressure on key commodities. Anne Lee speaks with HighGround Dairy's Stu Davison about the global forces shaping New Zealand's farmgate milk price, from expanding milk production in the United States to Europe's heatwave, China's changing demand patterns and the latest Global Dairy Trade Pulse results. Host: Anne Lee, Senior Journalist, Dairy Country Guest: Stu Davison, HighGround Dairy Stu explains why traders are already pricing weather risk into dairy markets as New Zealand heads towards a potential Super El Niño, and what that could mean for milk production and commodity prices over the coming season. Anne and Stu also discuss the growing competitiveness of US dairy exports, how conflict in the Middle East is influencing global dairy trade and food security, the impact of Europe's large butter and skim milk powder inventories, and why currency movements could play a significant role in New Zealand's milk price outlook. Sign up to the weekly DAIRY Country email newsletter here: https://dairycountry.co.nz/sign-up/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

July 23, 202650 min

Episode 121 - The power of Spark That Chat

As a founder, Jack Jensen has built a large following through his multimedia company Msft Productions, producing content for some big-name companies while inspiring people to embrace adventure, community and the outdoors. Anne Lee talks with Jack about his charity Spark That Chat, formed in response to the loss of a close mate to suicide. Park That Chat is a wellbeing initiative, helping people across New Zealand have more meaningful conversations and build practical tools for resilience. Host: Anne Lee, Senior Journalist, Dairy Country Guest: Jack Jensen, Spark That Chat Jack explains how Spark That Chat has grown from a social media campaign into a nationwide movement, reaching millions of people through school tours, community events and the rural-focused Cut the Bull campaign. Anne and Jack also discuss why meaningful conversations, movement, breathwork and slowing down are powerful tools for supporting mental wellbeing, and the importance of checking in with friends and family before they reach crisis point. They also explore the unique pressures facing rural communities, how partnerships with organisations such as Farmstrong are helping extend the initiative's reach, and why simple, everyday conversations can make a life-changing difference. Sign up to the weekly DAIRY Country email newsletter here: https://dairycountry.co.nz/sign-up/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

July 16, 202638 min

Episode 120 - Building better calves from day one

Karen Fraser has spent years helping dairy farmers improve calf rearing through practical, science-based advice. Anne Lee speaks with the Farmlands Technical Specialist and Calf Experts co-founder about the foundations of successful calf rearing, from colostrum management and the five Qs of colostrum to early-life nutrition and milk feeding. Host: Anne Lee, Senior Journalist, Dairy Country Guest: Karen Fraser, Technical Specialist, Farmlands Karen explains why collecting calves early, feeding high-quality "gold" colostrum and maintaining excellent hygiene are critical for successful passive transfer of immunity and healthy calves. Anne and Karen also discuss the latest recommendations around feeding higher milk volumes in early life, choosing and using calf milk replacers, practical weaning strategies and the importance of developing the rumen while maintaining strong growth rates. They also explore common calf-rearing mistakes, from colostrum handling to tubing and electrolyte use, and share practical tips to help farmers raise healthier, more productive animals from day one. Sign up to the weekly DAIRY Country email newsletter here: https://dairycountry.co.nz/sign-up/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

July 9, 202634 min

Episode 119 - Setting calves up for life

Dr Ajmal Khan has spent more than a decade researching calf rearing, investigating how early-life nutrition and management influence the health, productivity and lifetime performance of dairy animals. Anne Lee speaks with the Bioeconomy Science Institute scientist about his latest research into colostrum management, milk feeding and pre-weaning growth, and why getting those first days and weeks right can have lasting benefits for calf health, milk production, longevity and farm profitability. Host: Anne Lee, Senior Journalist, Dairy Country Guest: Dr Ajmal Khan, Bioeconomy Science Institute Ajmal explains why collecting calves early and feeding high-quality "gold" colostrum is critical for successful passive transfer of immunity, before sharing findings from his long-term New Zealand research that followed calves through their first four lactations as cows. Anne and Ajmal also discuss the importance of feeding adequate milk during the pre-weaning period, the impact of early growth rates on lifetime milk production, practical weaning strategies and the role of automatic calf feeders. Together they explore how small management decisions during a calf's first weeks can deliver significant gains in animal welfare, productivity, profitability and environmental outcomes. Sign up to the weekly DAIRY Country email newsletter here: https://dairycountry.co.nz/sign-up/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

July 2, 202647 min

Episode 118 - Can grass replace winter crops?

Fraser Tasker has spent the past several years refining a grass-based wintering system on his Mid Canterbury dairy support block, replacing traditional fodder beet and kale wintering for his mixed-age cows. Anne Lee speaks with Fraser about what prompted the change, how the system operates and the practical lessons he's learnt along the way. Host: Anne Lee, Senior Journalist, Dairy Country Guest: Fraser Tasker, Canterbury farmer Fraser was one of three farmers who spoke at a Lincoln University Dairy Farm (LUDF) focus day along with scientists studying pasture based wintering systems for the South Island. Anne and Fraser discuss some of the information shared at the focus day and dig more deeply into Fraser’s dairy operation. He explains how the cocksfoot pastures and separate fescue dominant pastures are managed and the improvements he’s seen in animal health and welfare, simplified management and nitrogen losses. He discusses how he balances multiple stock classes on the support block, costs of the system and why he believes grass wintering works for his situation. Sign up to the weekly DAIRY Country email newsletter here: https://dairycountry.co.nz/sign-up/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

June 25, 202632 min

Episode 117 - DairyNZ's extended lactation study

Extended lactation is emerging as a potential option for dairy farmers looking to reduce labour pressure, improve flexibility and significantly cut the number of non-replacement calves being born each year. Anne Lee speaks with DairyNZ senior scientist Dr Paul Edwards about the research behind the system and the results emerging from farmlet trials at Scott Farm and a new study in Northland. Host: Anne Lee, Senior Journalist, Dairy Country Guest: Dr Paul Edwards, Senior Scientist, DairyNZ Paul explains how a 24-month calving interval works in a pasture-based system, where half the herd calves in alternate springs, and discusses its impacts on milk production, feed demand, profitability and cow performance. He also shares insights into the opportunities extended lactation could create for replacement rates and beef-on-dairy, and why researchers believe the system is worth continuing to explore as a future option for some New Zealand dairy farmers. Sign up to the weekly DAIRY Country email newsletter here: https://dairycountry.co.nz/sign-up/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

June 18, 202634 min

Episode 116 - Truly integrated farming

Willesden Farms is a diverse Canterbury farming business, spanning more than 6,500 hectares across Banks Peninsula, Kaitorete Spit and the Canterbury Plains. Anne Lee speaks with General Manager Matt Iremonger about the evolution of the farming operation, its recent dairy expansion and the role innovation is playing in improving both productivity and environmental outcomes. Host: Anne Lee, Senior Journalist, Dairy Country Guest: Matt Iremonger, Willesden farms Matt discusses the development of an 800-cow composting barn in Kaituna Valley and explains why the system was chosen to help manage challenging weather conditions, protect soils and improve animal welfare. He shares insights from the farm’s first season using the facility, including how it performed during significant rainfall events, the opportunities it creates for nutrient management and feed utilisation, and the role it plays in supporting the wider farming system. Matt also talks about Willesden Farms’ long-standing commitment to biodiversity, extensive native bush restoration projects, partnerships with local rūnanga and how the business balances environmental stewardship with strong commercial performance across its dairy, sheep and beef enterprises. Read the article from the Winter 2026 issue of CountryWide here: https://country-wide.co.nz/truly-integrated-farming/ Sign up to the weekly DAIRY Country email newsletter here: https://dairycountry.co.nz/sign-up/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

June 11, 202630 min

Episode 115 - From banking billions to dairying dream

West Coast dairy farmer Charlotte Aitken has taken an unconventional path to farm ownership, moving from a career in international banking in London to running her own dairy farm near Karamea. Anne Lee speaks with Charlotte about her journey into dairy farming, the financial discipline that underpins her business and the management decisions that have helped her build a profitable farming operation. Host: Anne Lee, Senior Journalist, Dairy Country Guest: Charlotte Aitken, West Coast Dairy Farmer Charlotte discusses how she transitioned into the dairy industry later in life, working her way through farm roles before purchasing her own farm on the West Coast of the South Island. She explains how her background in finance influences the way she manages costs, production and investment decisions, and shares insights into breeding strategies, facial eczema management and maximising value from every calf born on the farm. Charlotte also talks about adopting virtual fencing technology, trialling new ideas and why she believes innovation and a willingness to challenge conventional thinking are key to long-term success. Read the article from the Autumn 2026 issue of DAIRY Country here: https://dairycountry.co.nz/from-banking-billions-to-dairying-dream/ Sign up to the weekly DAIRY Country email newsletter here: https://dairycountry.co.nz/sign-up/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.