Pāmu Showcases Advanced Dairy Beef Systems in Open Farm Days

Pāmu, New Zealand's state-owned farming enterprise, has announced the launch of 'Open Farm Days', taking place from September to February across four major regions. This initiative is designed to offer a transparent view of Pāmu's advanced agricultural operations, which include large-scale, multi-system commercial activities. According to Pāmu Chief Executive Mark Leslie, these events aim to demonstrate how their strategic system-level choices translate into enhanced productivity and profitability.

The centerpiece of these showcases is Pāmu's disciplined, data-driven farming model, which emphasizes structural resilience and financial returns. One of the primary objectives for Pāmu is its ambitious 2030 goal to rear 100% of its non-replacement calves. To achieve this, the company is integrating advanced genetics with enhanced calf rearing and finishing infrastructure, transforming a traditionally low-value byproduct into a lucrative business division.

Each region's event will highlight distinct production systems tailored to local conditions. In the central North Island, the Exeter farm will focus on specialized dairy beef systems and commercial calf rearing techniques. Meanwhile, the Cheltenham Downs operation in Manawatū will showcase a diversified approach that combines high-efficiency dairy beef production with certified organic farming to tap into alternative market premiums.

In Mid Canterbury, the open days at Valetta, Maranon, and Mayfield farms will illustrate the synergy between commercial dairying, advanced technology, and environmental stewardship. These farms will feature state-of-the-art agritech solutions, such as Halter virtual fencing and automated eco-pond systems, aimed at reducing environmental impact. Further south, the Dawson Downs showcase in South Otago will focus on integrated mixed arable, sheep, and beef finishing infrastructure to demonstrate multi-species production efficiency.

In addition to physical farm tours, Pāmu's community engagement agenda includes a biodiversity and conservation planting day at the Eyrewell facility in North Canterbury. The company is also planning additional sector events, including field days centered around its LIFT programme. This initiative, supported by the Primary Sector Growth Fund, seeks to equip New Zealand sheep and beef producers with the tools needed to enhance long-term profitability, environmental performance, and climate resilience.