Discover how virtual fencing is transforming livestock farming in New Zealand.

In this episode of Growing Our Future, Katie Rodwell speaks with Hawkes Bay farmer Marcus Peacock who shares his hands-on experience with Halter’s technology for beef systems. From calmer, better-performing stock to smarter pasture management and real-time decision-making, Marcus explains how digital tools have freed him from routine constraints, boosted productivity, and restored enjoyment to farming.

Packed with practical insights on training, data use, and ROI, this conversation is a must-listen for farmers looking for technology solutions to unlock efficiency.

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Show Notes:

Training and Adapting to Virtual Fencing

Marcus explains that the collars themselves are straightforward, and the cattle adapt remarkably quickly. While the human learning curve is often bigger than the animals’, he describes training mobs in just a few days, including young stock. Even dairy-beef crosses and bulls prove easy to manage once temperament settles under consistent feeding and routine. For Marcus, virtual fencing removes many of the frustrations associated with break-feeding, fencing failures, and time-consuming stock shifts.

Changing Temperament and Stock Behaviour

One of the most striking differences Marcus sees is the behavioural shift. Well-fed animals, moved twice daily and kept in consistent groups, develop calmer temperaments and more uniform performance. He compares it to a dormitory where everyone becomes part of the same team. The system helps reduce stress events, maintain consistency and, in his view, even makes intensive systems workable for classes like bulls.

Restoring Time, Reducing Stress, and Improving Decision-Making

Virtual fencing has fundamentally changed Marcus’ daily rhythm. Instead of driving around checking breaks or repairing wires, stock movements now take minutes. Decisions can be made in real time using accurate pasture and animal data rather than assumptions. With fewer firefighting tasks and more confidence in what’s happening remotely, Marcus has found more enjoyment in farming than at any point in his career. He describes it as taking the subconscious weight of constant management off his shoulders.

Pasture Insight Through Live Data

The technology’s ability to measure growth rates, track grazing pressure, and analyse pasture quality has been a major advantage. Satellite-based pasture readings allow Marcus to understand growth trends, react to weather changes, and fine-tune rotations. By pairing these insights with rumination and grazing behaviour, he is now exploring new pasture species and feed strategies tailored to Wagyu performance targets, something he believes will only accelerate as AI tools evolve.

Animal Health Monitoring and On-Farm Observation

While some farmers worry that less time on-foot could lead to reduced observation, Marcus finds the opposite. The system highlights early signs of health issues by tracking drops in rumination or changes in behaviour, allowing intervention before problems escalate. With no fences to open or relocate, he can move through mobs easily and still maintain practical stockmanship.

Cost, Value, and Return on Investment

Although virtual fencing represents a significant investment, Marcus sees strong returns through increased productivity, reduced labour, fewer repairs, and better utilisation of feed. For his system, the annual cost per hectare is outweighed by gains in liveweight production and time savings. He believes success relies on fully embracing the technology and adjusting farm practice, rather than treating it as a plug-in tool.

Key Takeaway

Marcus’s experience shows how virtual fencing can free farmers from routine constraints, improve stock performance, and strengthen decision-making. With accurate data, calm animals and flexible grazing, the technology offers a genuine shift toward smarter, more enjoyable farming.