DairyNZ Urges Farmers to Plan for Higher Costs in 2026/27 Season
Farmers should be cautiously optimistic as the 2026/27 season kicks off, says DairyNZ.
Two farmer directors – Alister Body and Jim van der Poel – will retire by rotation; Body is not seeking re-election.
The board consists of five farmer-elected directors and three board-elected directors.
Another vacancy exists on the directors remuneration committee; nominations for all positions close at noon on September 8.
Electionz.com returning officer Anthony Morton says the first election for two directors is an opportunity for levy paying farmers to get more involved in the leadership of DairyNZ.
“These roles are a chance to contribute to the whole dairy sector, supporting DairyNZ, its priorities and objectives. This is an important governance role which will help shape and influence the organisation’s direction for dairy farmers.”
The successful remuneration committee member will join a three-member team in considering and recommending remuneration for directors each year. Chris Lewis is the retiring committee member.
“All farmers paying a levy on milksolids to DairyNZ are eligible to stand for either election,” says Morton.
An information pack outlining criteria and nomination requirements can be obtained from the returning officer (0800 666 033) or online www.electionz.com/dairynz).
If more than the required nominations are received, the elections will use the STV (single transferable vote) voting method.
Vote packs will be posted on September 25 and all votes weighted by annual milksolids production for all registered DairyNZ levy payers.
Election results will be announced at the DairyNZ annual meeting in Rotorua on October 25.
