The Dairy Beef Opportunities (DBO) Programme is a sector wide initiative jointly delivered by Beef + Lamb New Zealand, DairyNZ, the Meat Industry Association, and members of the Dairy Companies Association of New Zealand, with support from the Ministry for Primary Industries via the Primary Sector Growth Fund (PSGF).
The programme focuses on lifting the value and performance of New Zealand’s non-replacement dairy calves by strengthening dairy–beef integration and developing new, higher value pathways. The aim is to improve farm profitability, animal welfare and long term sustainability across the livestock sector.
Why this programme matters
New Zealand’s global reputation for premium, ethical and sustainable food relies on continual progress. Calf management is under increasing scrutiny, and both dairy and beef sectors recognise the need to make better use of non-replacement calves.
While some calves already enter beef systems, New Zealand’s seasonal, pasture-based farming model, high dairy to beef ratio and finite land resource limit the number that can be utilised. Calves not entering beef production are processed young for a range of products.
The DBO Programme brings industry organisations together, with Government support, to develop solutions tailored to New Zealand’s unique farming systems. The goal is to grow the value of non-replacement calves while improving animal welfare and protecting our global reputation.
What the programme delivers
The programme centres on three pillars designed to reduce bobby calves and expand dairy-beef opportunities.
1. Maximising efficiency through genetics and systems
- Breeding calves better suited to beef production.
- Improving calf rearing, finishing systems and supply chain coordination.
- Strengthening relationships and supporting practice change across the dairy–beef interface.
- Building confidence and capability to transition more calves into beef systems.
2. Extended lactation and advanced mating plans
- Reducing total calf numbers through extended lactation.
- Designing mating programmes that deliver for both dairy and dairy-beef.
- Increasing the proportion of calves suitable for beef production.
3. New pathways and value chains
- Developing new products and value chains for young dairy-beef animals that can be finished earlier.
- Supporting processors to adapt to changes in timing, capacity and livestock type.
- Working with communities and supply chains to drive adoption of new systems.