DeLaval's Melbourne-based Product Manager for Farm Supply and Barn Equipment, Katrina Lee. Photo / Supplied
DeLaval's Melbourne-based Product Manager for Farm Supply and Barn Equipment, Katrina Lee. Photo / Supplied
Barns are not traditionally associated with New Zealand farming which has a predominantly grass-based system, but there is a steady interest rising.
DeLaval's Product Manager for Farm Supply and Barn Equipment, Katrina Lee spoke to The Country Early Edition's Rowena Duncum about how barns can work within a pasture system.
Lee says Kiwi farmers' interest in barns is "slow but steady," compared to their European counterparts, but predicts factors such as animal welfare will increase popularity.
The need for a barn depends on where you're from as well says Lee, with South Island farmers using them for wintering cows whereas those in the North Island use barns for housing cows after autumn calving.
Barns are created with animal welfare in mind says Lee with six key factors being taken into account including flooring, ventilation, resting areas, lighting and water, as well as the animal itself - "we want to make it as natural as possible for the cow to move around and interact with her herd mates."
Although New Zealand is predominantly pasture-based, a barn can be part of "the tool box of farm management," says Lee as it can keep cows off paddocks when it's wet, and provide shade for them during warmer months.
