JANUARY CLIENT SPOTLIGHT:

MATT AND CARLEY CONLAN

CONLAN FAMILY FARM LTD – OWNER

Matt and Carley Conlan are fifth-generation farmers based in Oroua Downs, just north of Foxton, farming land that has been in their family since the early 1900s. Running a herd of around 240 cows, fertility is a key focus of their operation.

Since grazing their heifers with New Zealand Grazing Company, Matt and Carley have seen a significant improvement in fertility and animal condition. Out of 70 replacement heifers, only one was empty—something they attribute to the feeding, care, and quality bulls supplied by NZGC. With fewer empties, they’re producing more milk and can be more selective with culling.

Their heifers are bigger, well-conditioned, and settle seamlessly into the milking herd, with noticeably calmer temperaments in the shed compared to previous years.

FEBRUARY CLIENT SPOTLIGHT:

IAN AND LISA JEFFERY

ROSEMONT HOLDINGS LIMITED – GROWER

Ian and Lisa Jeffery’s farm is situated in Whakamarama, Tauranga, and has been proudly held within their family for four generations. What began as a modest 40-hectare property has steadily grown over the years to encompass 140 hectares, along with an equivalent area of leased land.

The business originally started with dairying and pigs. Over time, it expanded to include two dairy herds — a spring-calving herd and an autumn-calving herd — operating on neighbouring farms. Alongside the dairy operation, the pig enterprise developed into New Zealand’s leading Landrace breeding business, earning national recognition for its quality and performance.

Ian and his wife, Lisa, took over the dairy side of the business 40 years ago. Through their leadership, dedication, and careful management, they continued to build and strengthen the operation. Four years ago, they made the strategic decision to transition from milking to dairy grazing, marking a new chapter in the ongoing evolution of their family farm.

Future-proof your herd with smart heifer management