Vanessa Lilly

Originally from a dairy farming background in Taranaki, Vanessa loves seeing farmers’ passion for what they do – and helping them develop their systems.

“Making constant progress and improvements, big or small, is so important. This industry is constantly evolving and improving, and as a country, it’s key we keep up to stay competitive and relevant,” Vanessa explains.

She describes her role as part of a network, where farmers can get the support they need to farm profitably and sustainably.

“Our regional team is here to provide a diverse service, whether a farmer needs a supportive sounding board, a pathway into the local community, or a link into the New Zealand dairy sector’s wealth of knowledge and learnings, so they can keep up with sector changes.”

“There are so many different approaches to things, and a constant flow of new information. Our roles help farmers see the forest for the trees and filter through all the ‘stuff’, and connect them to what they need, when they need it.”

She adds that DairyNZ is positioned perfectly to create a neutral ground of shared knowledge and connection. From hosting events that bring people and knowledge together, through to connecting rural professionals (RPs) and farmers with each other. It’s all about progressing together as a sector.

“That’s why I say, ‘use your people’ – that’s us! We’re here to help, and we love doing it: so lean on us, and get your return on investment in DairyNZ and in us, as your area managers.”

• Find out more about DairyNZ’s other Upper North Island regional team members.
• Check out our nationwide regional teams.