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Outcomes in new dairy code are common sense

DairyNZ says the outcome-based approach to dairy cow welfare, as laid out in the new Dairy Cattle Code of Welfare, make common sense.

The new Dairy Cattle Code of Welfare was launched today at DairyNZ's Lye Farm in the Waikato by the Minister of Agriculture, Hon David Carter. The new code sets out standards of care and recommended world best practices for the management of dairy cattle.

DairyNZ Chairman John Luxton said the new code will strengthen the regard in which our industry is held internationally.

"Our approach to welfare and stockmanship is widely respected because it is backed by the world's best science, which farmers fund through their DairyNZ industry levy," Mr Luxton said.

"Our dairy farmers have a history of taking proactive steps to keep ahead of the demands of our international consumers, which is why we have that respect. This code is another positive step."

DairyNZ Chief Executive Dr Tim Mackle said the major improvement to the new code is its focus on outcomes for animals and the recommended best practices to show farmers how they can keep ahead of minimum standards.

"This new code reinforces the welfare outcomes we want for our cows, without being prescriptive, and it points farmers to recommended best practices."

Dr Mackle said DairyNZ has an important role to play in making farmers aware of the code and in promoting the recommended good practices.

"DairyNZ has a history of working with everyone in the industry to refine standards and communicate them to farmers so they are clear about their obligations and what they need to do to meet them," he said.