On this episode of RaboTalk's Growing our future, host Katie Rodwell is joined by Damian and Jane Roper. From early in their career, the Ropers have had a passion for the environment they live and work in, and since moving from share-milking to farm ownership, the couple have been slowly transforming their dairy farm into a thriving ecosystem. This episode focuses on their connection to nature, the challenges this system brings, and driving positive change from within the farm gate.Katie and the Ropers discuss how shifting the focus of their farming practices has led to a surprising increase in profitability. By reducing cow numbers and improving feed utilisation they emphasise the feasibility of a modern dairy farm being both profitable and environmentally friendly. Expanding their farm to include a non-profit native tree nursery in recent years has been a greatly rewarding, fostering greater connection between the farm and the community and inspiring other farmers to do their own planting. Looking ahead, the Ropers have a vision for diverse and resilient dairy farm they can leave for future generations, and a community and industry transformed for the better.

On this episode of RaboTalk's Growing our future, host Katie Rodwell is joined by Damian and Jane Roper. From early in their career, the Ropers have had a passion for the environment they live and work in, and since moving from share-milking to farm ownership, the couple have been slowly transforming their dairy farm into a thriving ecosystem. This episode focuses on their connection to nature, the challenges this system brings, and driving positive change from within the farm gate. Katie and the Ropers discuss how shifting the focus of their farming practices has led to a surprising increase in profitability. By reducing cow numbers and improving feed utilisation they emphasise the feasibility of a modern dairy farm being both profitable and environmentally friendly. Expanding their farm to include a non-profit native tree nursery in recent years has been a greatly rewarding, fostering greater connection between the farm and the community and inspiring other farmers to do their own planting. Looking ahead, the Ropers have a vision for diverse and resilient dairy farm they can leave for future generations, and a community and industry transformed for the better.

On this episode of RaboTalk's Growing our future, host Katie Rodwell is joined by Damian and Jane Roper. From early in their career, the Ropers have had a passion for the environment they live and work in, and since moving from share-milking to farm ownership, the couple have been slowly transforming their dairy farm into a thriving ecosystem.&nbsp;This episode focuses on their connection to nature, the challenges this system brings, and driving positive change from within the farm gate.Katie and the Ropers discuss how shifting the focus of their farming practices has led to a surprising increase in profitability. By reducing cow numbers and improving feed utilisation they emphasise the feasibility of a modern dairy farm being both profitable and environmentally friendly. Expanding their farm to include a non-profit native tree nursery in recent years has been a greatly rewarding, fostering greater connection between the farm and the community and inspiring other farmers to do their own planting. Looking ahead, the Ropers have a vision for diverse and resilient dairy farm they can leave for future generations, and a community and industry transformed for the better.&nbsp;

Reinvigorated Dairy Farming with The Ropers

RaboTalk’s Growing our future is all about equipping New Zealand’s farmers and growers with the knowledge to support resilient farming systems for the future. Using insights gathered from Aotearoa and across the world, Rabobank’s team of experts and connections offer up informed opinions and healthy discussion on the future of farming, and how to adapt farm strategies and systems to ensure our farms thrive in a fast-changing world. 



Disclaimer: This podcast has been prepared by Rabobank New Zealand Limited and Coöperatieve Rabobank U.A. (New Zealand Branch) (Incorporated in the Netherlands) (collectively referred to as ‘Rabobank New Zealand’). The information and opinions contained in this publication have been compiled or arrived at from sources believed to be reliable, but no representation or warranty, express or implied, is made as to their accuracy, completeness or correctness. This publication is for information purposes only and is not, and should not be construed as, an offer or a commitment by Rabobank New Zealand to enter into a transaction. This information is not professional advice and has not been prepared to be used as the basis for, and should not be used as the basis for, any financial or strategic decisions. This information is general in nature only and does not take into account an individual’s personal circumstances. All opinions expressed in this publication are subject to change without notice. Rabobank New Zealand does not accept any liability whatsoever for any direct, indirect, consequential or other loss or damage howsoever arising from any use of this publication or its contents or otherwise arising in connection therewith.  This publication must not be reproduced or distributed without the prior written consent of Rabobank New Zealand. © 2026 Rabobank New Zealand Limited and Coöperatieve Rabobank U.A. (New Zealand Branch) (Incorporated in the Netherlands). All Rights Reserved.

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RaboTalk’s Growing our future is all about equipping New Zealand’s farmers and growers with the knowledge to support resilient farming systems for the future. Using insights gathered from Aotearoa and across the world, Rabobank’s team of experts and connections offer up informed opinions and healthy discussion on the future of farming, and how to adapt farm strategies and systems to ensure our farms thrive in a fast-changing world. Disclaimer: This podcast has been prepared by Rabobank New Zealand Limited and Coöperatieve Rabobank U.A. (New Zealand Branch) (Incorporated in the Netherlands) (collectively referred to as ‘Rabobank New Zealand’). The information and opinions contained in this publication have been compiled or arrived at from sources believed to be reliable, but no representation or warranty, express or implied, is made as to their accuracy, completeness or correctness. This publication is for information purposes only and is not, and should not be construed as, an offer or a commitment by Rabobank New Zealand to enter into a transaction. This information is not professional advice and has not been prepared to be used as the basis for, and should not be used as the basis for, any financial or strategic decisions. This information is general in nature only and does not take into account an individual’s personal circumstances. All opinions expressed in this publication are subject to change without notice. Rabobank New Zealand does not accept any liability whatsoever for any direct, indirect, consequential or other loss or damage howsoever arising from any use of this publication or its contents or otherwise arising in connection therewith. This publication must not be reproduced or distributed without the prior written consent of Rabobank New Zealand. © 2026 Rabobank New Zealand Limited and Coöperatieve Rabobank U.A. (New Zealand Branch) (Incorporated in the Netherlands). All Rights Reserved.

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Reinvigorated Dairy Farming with The Ropers

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