History of dairy farming in New Zealand

Dairy farming has changed significantly over the centuries from hand milking to machine milking. The size of farms and the expectations on farmers have also changed with time.

There is no doubt that agricultural intensification can come at a cost to the environment. However, we need to balance this cost with the importance of food production. As the Earth’s population grows, so does the need for farmers and others to produce more food.

• Dairy farming – key terms – article

• New Zealand dairy farming – timeline – article

• Farming development and changing landscapes – article

• Farming and the environment – timeline – article

IMAGE: Courtesy of Te Aroha and District Museum.