The Bagleys’ success at the Tupehau farm is a testament to their collaborative approach and commitment to efficiency. The article reveals they meet monthly with a team of advisors, including prominent industry figures like DairyNZ Board chair Tracy Brown, to fine-tune their operation. This collective knowledge has allowed them to manage their farm as efficiently and environmentally friendly as possible, utilizing strategies like a split calving system and precise pasture management to maximize milk output while minimizing their environmental footprint.

A key to their operational success is a disciplined and data-driven approach to farm management. The couple runs a system 4 farm but is strict on pasture management, targeting specific residuals and using a mixer wagon to supplement their grass-based feed. The article provides a key piece of data journalism for the international dairy community, showing how the Bagleys, despite their system, are able to achieve high yields and profitability by applying principles from DairyNZ’s Supplement Price Calculator and constantly fine-tuning their operations to get the best return.

The Bagleys’ journey to ownership was built on a foundation of hard work and strategic savings. After years of working their way up from farm assistants to contract milkers, they built their equity by saving diligently and rearing young stock. When an opportunity arose, they approached former employers, Neville Porteous and Ken Hames, with a proposal to form an equity partnership. This savvy move allowed them to transition from being contract milkers to farm owners, showcasing a creative and determined path to ownership.