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.
DairyNZ Responsible Dairy general manager Jenny Cameron says it is a positive step for the dairy sector.
“We have real concerns for the current situation where many dairy farmers are struggling to employ the staff they need on farms,” says Cameron.
“Finding solutions will be crucial to support the sector to meet the challenges ahead, including having the right talent and number of people to address climate change, water quality, people and animal care.
“As a sector, we strive to offer competitive employment packages and value the importance of having a positive workplace culture.
“We want to attract more Kiwi workers to the dairy sector, where we offer great jobs and lifestyles. We also need our valued migrant workers,” Cameron said.
Education Minister Hon Chris Hipkins announced this month that the legislation enabling the formation of six workforce development councils has been passed and they can now be established. They will work towards ensuring people graduate with the right skills at the right time to address skill shortages.
A management team will now be employed by the council to get on with the important task of working with industry, employers and providers to develop the workforce needed for the future.
“This is a positive step – we all need to work together to resolve long-term workforce issues to support our sector’s ongoing success,” says Cameron.
“We look forward to working with the council responsible for the dairy sector, Muka Tangata – People, Food and Fibre Workforce Development Council, to identify capability and training needs across the entire sector.” DairyNZ encourages the council to also take on an industry promotion role to make sure people are aware of the sector and opportunities. They will also coordinate relevant training that employers and employees value, and address the skill shortage.
DairyNZ supports a range of key initiatives, including the Ministry of Primary Industries’ Opportunity Grows Here campaign, while Taratahi Agricultural Training Centre continues to roll out Farm Ready Training Courses.
“People are at the heart of our sector and we look forward to working with the council and all other interested parties to identify solutions to workforce needs.”
