Why Attend?

Join us on-farm with host Hieke Amtink to explore how high input systems can drive profitability. Learn how Hieke maximises pasture and crop yields on a farm with a stocking rate of 3.4 cows/ha, harvesting 13.7t/ha of homegrown feed over the past three seasons, and using 1.6t of imported feed per cow. Since re-converting in the 2020/21 season, Hieke has focused on pasture performance and strategic supplement use to support herd health and lift operating profit

In Otago and Southland, effective pasture management—alongside smart supplement strategies—is key to growing and utilising quality feed, driving milk production and farm profitability.

This event is for farm owners, sharemilkers, managers, and the whole farm team. A dedicated breakout session will cover pasture fundamentals at an introductory level, ideal for those involved in day-to-day operations.

DairyNZ senior scientist Dawn Dalley will share research on supplementary feeding strategies, pasture composition and utilisation, and tools to support feed planning and decision-making.

At this Progressing Dairy Event, you’ll hear about:

• Making grazing decisions to hit target covers and round lengths.
• Using supplements strategically to boost milk production and profit.
• How Hieke uses his feedpad to reduce pasture damage and ensure cows are well fed.
• Tools and resources Hieke uses for pasture and crop management.

Team Breakout Session: Bring your farm staff for a hands-on session exploring pasture fundamentals like round length and the three-leaf stage. Build team capability and confidence in harvesting homegrown feed effectively.

Protect our industry - please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.

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