As attention turns to New Zealand’s DairyEvent, slated for January 20-22, the country’s exhibitors are all critically assessing their entries every day.

One of the king-hitting teams is a name no-one underestimates – Ferdon Genetics – at Otorohanga, in the heart of New Zealand’s Waikato, in the North Island. It is known globally for its Jerseys – which comprise 75% of the herd. Ferdon today also includes 25% Holsteins and some classy registered Ayrshires. The farm is run by Warren and Michelle, together with their son, Corey, milking 200-210-head on 75 effective hectares.

This is home to the reigning NZ DairyEvent Senior and Grand Champion Jersey, Ferdon Tbone Veneer EX, who will defend her title in two weeks time under US judge Terri Packard. Ferdon’s NZ DairyEvent team i ...