On-farm efficiency is often hailed as the win-win strategy for delivering both profitability and environmental performance. But where are those gains going to come from next—and how do genetics and herd improvement fit in? In this episode of Growing Our Future, Blake is joined by David Chin, CEO of Livestock Improvement Corporation (LIC), to explore how far New Zealand dairy farmers have come in improving herd efficiency and what new opportunities lie ahead.

From traditional breeding to cutting-edge genomic selection and methane-reducing genetics, this conversation covers the science, strategy, and future potential of herd improvement in New Zealand.

Join us to explore how genetics is shaping a more sustainable and productive future for dairy farming, driving efficiency, profitability, and environmental gains.

When change is needed on-farm, how do we better understand what kind of change we're dealing with—and what it takes to support it effectively? In this episode of Growing Our Future, host Blake Holgate talks to Geoff Kaine, Landcare Research Senior Researcher in economics, about farmer behaviour, decision-making, and the types of change they encounter. They explore why some shifts are easier, how support varies, and why understanding each farmer’s situation is key to effective industry and policy action.

Geoff introduces a framework categorizing farm system changes as simple, complex, tactical, or strategic. Simple changes are low-risk and one-off, while complex ones require planning. Tactical shifts adjust production methods, whereas strategic changes redefine what is produced, such as switching from dairy to horticulture. Decision-making depends on mindset, system boundaries, and support networks, particularly for complex or strategic transitions.

Tune in to this engaging conversation to learn how both Blake and Geoff emphasize the importance of understanding the type of change a farmer is navigating before offering advice or support. They also highlight that for farmers facing big transitions, industry and government must invest in research and create viable options to support system-level change.

Most farmers and growers have some form of relationship with a bank, but the nature of that relationship can vary significantly. From a simple transactional connection to a deeper partnership, how can farmers maximize the value of their banking relationship? In this episode of Growing Our Future, host Blake Holgate speaks with Bruce Weir, Rabobank's General Manager for Country Banking, to discuss what a strong bank-client relationship looks like, key considerations when assessing financial partnerships, and how farmers can position themselves for long-term success.

The key to a successful banking relationship is proactivity, transparency, and long-term planning. By building trust, understanding their financial position, and fostering a strong relationship with their bank, farmers can ensure their businesses remain resilient and well-positioned for future opportunities.

Tune in to this insightful discussion to learn how you can maximise the value of your banking relationship and set your farming business up for lasting success.

 In this episode of Growing Our Future, Blake sits down with Robert Siveter, Senior Manager, Sustainability Risk at Rabobank, to discuss the evolving climate risks facing New Zealand farmers. They explore how climate change impacts farming systems, the role of technology in mitigating risks, and the broader economic and market changes farmers need to consider. The conversation also highlights the opportunities that come with these changes and how farmers can position themselves to capitalise on them.

Tune in to hear more about how farmers can navigate these challenges and position themselves for success in an evolving climate landscape.

In this episode of RaboTalk's Growing our future, host Katie Rodwell chats with David Williams, head of on-farm excellence at Synlait, about a pioneering soil health project in New Zealand. The project, a collaboration between Synlait, Danone, AgResearch, and MPI’s Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures Fund, aims to assess the impact of regenerative agriculture on soil health, farm resilience, and environmental outcomes

David shares insights on the project's goals, methods, and early results, emphasising the importance of practical, farmer-centric solutions for sustainability and climate adaptation. He is optimistic about the potential for New Zealand agriculture to lead in sustainability and underscores the importance of collaboration, communication, and a proactive approach to sustainability. David believes New Zealand farmers are already performing well on a global scale but must continue to adapt to meet evolving demands.

Tune in to learn how innovative soil health practices can shape the future of New Zealand agriculture.

In this episode of RaboTalk’s Growing Our Future, host Blake Holgate speaks with KPMG’s Director Private Enterprise, Nick Swallow, about his Cambridge University Master’s research into New Zealand farmers' perceptions of low-carbon farming. They discuss the global forces driving emissions reductions, the challenges farmers face, and how to align sustainability goals with on-farm priorities like productivity, resilience, and intergenerational success.

Nick shares insights into global market trends and the opportunities for farmers to adapt and lead in sustainable agriculture.

Learn how connecting emissions reduction efforts to tangible benefits can empower New Zealand farmers for the future.

In this episode of RaboTalk’s Growing Our Future, Blake Holgate speaks with Neal Wallace, a respected agricultural journalist, about his recent travels through Europe, Asia, the US, UK and Middle East, exploring how global food companies are approaching sustainability and product sourcing. Neal’s trip was funded by Rabobank, Silver Fern Farms, Alliance, Beef+Lamb NZ and the Meat Industry Association to understand exactly what these “markets” are demanding from their farmer suppliers.

Neal shares what he learned from Nestlé, Mars, and major retailers driving the conversation around food production and environmental responsibility and provides his perspective on the future market expectations New Zealand farmers may face.

In this episode, Blake Holgate is joined by Rabobank’s very own ‘Senior Animal Protein’s Analyst’ Jen Corkran, to discuss the global market forces shaping New Zealand's sheep sector. They explore the external pressures driving sustainability efforts, the need for farmers to adapt to evolving requirements, and the opportunities to leverage New Zealand’s unique production systems for future market success.

Jen suggests stagnation is not an option in the farming industry, especially in sheep farming. By embracing change and reframing sustainability as an opportunity rather than a burden, farmers can ensure the long-term viability of their businesses.

In this episode of RaboTalk’s Growing Our Future, host Blake Holgate speaks with John Burke, who, alongside his brother Rick, has spent over 20 years improving the environmental health of their farm. Their hard work was recognised earlier this year when they were awarded the inaugural Cawthorn National Freshwater Champions Award.

John Burke's story is a powerful example of how long-term commitment and strategic planning can lead to both environmental and economic benefits on the farm. His insights offer valuable guidance for any farmer looking to enhance nature values on their property.

Show Notes:

John's Journey

John shares his farming background, from growing upon a farm in South Auckland to working in rural banking, and eventually partnering with his brother Rick to manage their current farm. Over the years, they've integrated their diverse skills—John's in agriculture and Rick's in building—to transform their land.

Motivation for Change

The journey toward environmental stewardship began when the regional council identified their farm as one of the most environmentally degraded in the area. This was a wake-up call for John and Rick, prompting them to take action to improve their land’s environmental footprint.

Key Initiatives

• Catchment Focus - The Burkes concentrated on the Te Mania catchment, an area historically affected by sedimentation, which had severely degraded the local estuary. Their efforts have focused on reducing sediment runoff, replanting native vegetation, and restoring waterways.
• Long-Term Commitment - John emphasises that environmental improvement is a long-term commitment, often taking over 20 years. They’ve made substantial changes, such as removing highly erodible land from production and implementing riparian plantings, which have significantly improved water quality.

Challenges and Solutions

One of the biggest challenges has been funding the necessary changes. John discusses how they’ve utilised financial assistance from the Bay of Plenty Regional Council and explored low-cost methods for establishing native vegetation. He also highlights the potential for financial incentives, like carbon credits and price premiums for sustainably produced products, to support farmers in their environmental efforts.

Community and Environmental Impact

The Burkes' efforts have not only improved their own farm's profitability but also created positive ripple effects throughout the community. Their work has led to cleaner waterways, more resilient landscapes, and inspired neighbouring landowners to embark on similar environmental journeys.

Advice for Farmers

John’s key advice for other farmers is to start by understanding the specific environmental issues affecting their land. By connecting with regional councils and catchment groups, farmers can gain the knowledge and support needed to make meaningful changes. He also stresses the importance of seeing environmental stewardship as a long-term journey, where every small step contributes to a healthier future for the land and the wider community.

Conclusion

John Burke's story is a powerful example of how long-term commitment and strategic planning can lead to significant environmental and economic benefits on the farm. His insights offer valuable guidance for any farmer looking to enhance nature values on their property.

In this episode of RaboTalk’s Growing Our Future, host Blake Holgate looks into Fonterra's 2030 emissions intensity target. He is joined by Malcolm Ellis, a fourth-generation farm owner and Fonterra's strategic advisor, to specifically look at the opportunities for available to farmers for improving on-farm emissions efficiency.