Waituhi Kuratau Trust

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Sheep dairy research is unlocking new productivity gains through a partnership with Waituhi Kuratau Trust (WKT), delivering significant on-farm improvements, boosting milk production and enhancing animal performance.

Background

Thanks to this collaboration, the WKT’s dairy sheep farm near Lake Taupō has seen milk production increase by up to 70%, while lamb survival rates and overall farm efficiency have also improved.

The WKT operates a 500-hectare dairy sheep farm and has been involved in milking sheep since 2005. Recognising the potential of the dairy sheep industry, WKT partnered with our team to explore ways to optimise farming practices and assess the environmental impact of sheep dairy farming compared to traditional dairy systems.

Key outcomes for farmers

As part of a wider programme funded by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), our team worked with WKT to refine farming practices, focusing on key areas such as ewe nutrition, pasture management, supplementary feeding, and environmental sustainability.

The key outcomes included:

Higher milk production: research-driven improvements led to 25-70% increases in milk production, significantly boosting farm revenue
Better animal performance: Enhanced ewe nutrition and lamb-rearing techniques resulted in healthier animals, higher birth weights, and reduced lamb mortality
Environmental benefits: A partnership with Waikato Regional Council confirmed that dairy sheep farming has a lower nitrogen footprint than traditional bovine dairy systems, making it a viable option for environmentally sensitive areas.

Economic impact and industry growth

The success of this programme coincided with the expansion of Aotearoa New Zealand’s dairy sheep industry. WKT’s involvement helped attract investment and partnerships, including a deal with Maui Milk, which connected the industry to global markets. The research also played a role in the broader growth of the sector, with the number of sheep dairy farms in the country increasing from five to thirty between 2013 and 2023.

The economic benefits of these research-driven improvements are substantial. A national analysis estimated an annual on-farm benefit of $4.1 million, with broader value chain benefits reaching up to $25 million. The sector has expanded beyond milk powder and cheese into high-value niche products, including infant formula, sports drinks, and even sheep milk-based gin.

Research that makes a difference

This partnership demonstrates how science-backed farming innovations can directly translate into increased productivity, economic growth, and sustainability. With continued research and investment, Aotearoa New Zealand’s dairy sheep industry is well-positioned for long-term success.

Find out more about the industry by visiting the Maui Sheep Milk website.

Maui Sheep Milk