As costs of production soar and cow numbers decline, more dairy farmers need to take advantage of the technologies available to identify the best animals to rear and mate, ensuring they use their investment in livestock wisely.

Already an emerging leader in alternative fuels for use in tractors with its T6 Methane tractor, New Holland recently raised its stake in the rapidly emerging sector by taking a majority interest in Bennamann, a company specialising in methane capture.

Dairy

Brett McIntosh of the Palmerston North-based family agricultural engineering firm McIntosh, says their Multi-4 and 5 bale feeders offer a major leap in productivity if you need to lift and feed 10 or more bales daily.

Early detection of lameness is a crucial factor in maintaining a profitable and healthy dairy herd.

Cow collar technology maker Halter has raised $85 million from an impressive list of investors from around the globe.

Lincoln University has launched a new research venture which aims to lead the way towards a more ethical and sustainable way of dairying.

OPINION: News that about 17% of the national herd of 4 million cows did not get pregnant and won't be producing milk in the coming season will come as a blow to many farmers and the economy of the country.

A University of Pretoria (UP) study has shown that playing soothing classical music to dairy cows lowers their stress levels and increases their milk production.

OPINION: Staying on climate change, forget fair-trade coffee beans and cows' milk substitutes, low-emission lattes could be the next big thing to land at your local cafe.