Dairy farm size in New Zealand 2011-2023

In the 2023 dairy season, the average dairy farm size was 157 effective hectares in New Zealand. The average farm size has consistently increased over the past decade, correlating with an increase in the average herd size during the same period. 

 Dairy farming nation

Dairy farming is an important sector in New Zealand due to the high export value of dairy products from the country. Primarily pasture-based, dairy farming is in operation across the entire country. The Waikato in the North Island was the region with the highest share of dairy cows in New Zealand. In the South Island, the North Canterbury region held the largest share of dairy cows. Holstein-Friesian/Jersey crossbreed cows made up the largest share of dairy cows in New Zealand.  

 Dairy products and export

Aside from fresh milk, New Zealand produces vast quantities of dairy products including whole and skim milk powder, butter, cheese, infant milk formula, and other whey products. A large share of these products are exported to China, Australia, the U.S., Japan, and Malaysia. The total export revenue of the dairy industry in New Zealand reached 26 billion New Zealand dollars in 2023.