Acting Agriculture Minister, Nicola Grigg says an improved code of welfare for dairy cattle will enhance New Zealand’s strong reputation for animal welfare, while ensuring practical changes for farmers.
Key changes to the Code for Dairy Cattle include a new minimum standard requiring calves to be fed at least twice-a-day for their first two weeks of life, and increasing the minimum standard for body condition score from 3 to 3.5 out of 10 for milking cows.
New Zealand is one of the few countries in the world that stipulates a minimum body condition score in legislation.
“The industry has indicated that increasing the body condition score is good practice, and these changes are also in line with consumer expectations around animal welfare,” Ms Grigg says. Â
“I have also recommended the development of new regulations prohibiting the tethering of dairy cattle, and around the use of electrified backing gates in milking sheds. Development of these regulations will involve public consultation.”
The new Code provides requirements and guidance that will leave farmers in no doubt about the standards of animal handling and care they must meet, said Ms Grigg.
“I would like to thank the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee for its work reviewing the Code, as well as key players in the dairy sector who have all helped shape humane, fit for purpose standards.”
“The new Code will take effect in April 2027 to give farmers time to make any changes needed. The Ministry for Primary Industries will work with industry organisations to build awareness of the changes and support farmers with clear information and practical tools during the transition period,” Ms Grigg says.
The code is available here.
