Listen: DairyNZ Farmers' Forum covers challenging topics

Chief Executive of DairyNZ Dr Tim Mackle. Photo / Supplied

DairyNZ's Farmers' Forum took place this week with some high profile speakers talking about some challenging topics for farmers.

Chief Executive of DairyNZ Dr Tim Mackle spoke to The Country Early Edition's Rowena Duncum on day one of the forum.

Minister for Agriculture Damien O'Connor made some important points, including backing production with brand integrity and the importance of sustainability, animal welfare and climate change issues says Dr Mackle.

O'Connor also spoke about targeting the "discerning consumer," and finding out what will make them buy.

Minister for Climate Change James Shaw also spoke at the Forum about the shared responsibility of achieving the zero carbon emissions target.

"James Shaw is a very engaging chap...he's making a real effort," says Dr Mackle who confirms Shaw has been out on farms with DairyNZ, talking to farmers and "he likes to get out and talk to the most challenging crowds."

Also in today's interview: Dr Tim Mackle talks about the new dairy sector strategy Dairy Tomorrow and what it means for dairy farmers.

Listen below: