New Zealand Dairy Sector Achieves Record Milk Production and Export Growth

The latest report from DairyNZ, titled 'State of the Dairy Nation 2024/25,' reveals impressive achievements in New Zealand's dairy sector. According to the report, the industry produced 21 billion litres of milk during the season, containing 1.94 billion kilograms of milksolids. This production marks a 2.3% increase in milk volume and a 2.9% increase in milksolids, even though the number of cows decreased by 0.5% to 4.68 million.

DairyNZ's chief executive, Campbell Parker, emphasized the sector's role as New Zealand's economic backbone, noting its success in creating numerous well-paid jobs. He stated, "New Zealand dairy farmers are achieving more. Despite having fewer cows, they have achieved record milk production per cow and continued making genetic progress in their herds." The report attributes these achievements to decades of genetic improvement, targeted feed supplement use, and a focus on rearing high-producing cows.

The report also highlights a significant year-on-year increase in December milksolids, which rose by 3.1% to 235,413,000 kgMS, surpassing initial expectations. Parker attributes this success to long-term efforts by farmers supported by industry organizations and government policies.

Looking forward, the report suggests continued growth in export volumes, supported by strong milk production and supplementary feed strategies.