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VikingRed brings balance and innovation to passionate Kiwi herd

In Kaitangata, South Otago, New Zealand, the Korteweg family is innovating and changing the way they dairy farm with the help of VikingRed genetics.

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Mathew Korteweg is a third-generation dairy farmer from South Otago, New Zealand. Along with his wife Catherine and their two sons, Beau and Leo, he has managed the family farm for over a decade, embracing the challenges and joys that come with their herd of 500 crossbred cows.

The beating heart of the Korteweg farm lies in two vital components, people and cows. People like their employees, Brayden, Ashleigh and Megan make up a passionate and committed team that strives to make the farm succeed and foster a work environment everyone can be proud of.

After purchasing the herd from Mathew's parents, the Kortewegs made the strategic choice to trim the herd by a hundred heads, moving towards a future focused on per-cow performance and herd health through a combination of excellent genetics and nutrition.

Reflecting on the farm's journey, Mathew recalls a time in West Gippsland, Victoria, Australia, about 14 years ago. It was there that he first encountered three-way crossbreeding with VikingRed, an idea that sparked curiosity and eventually, once Mathew became a herd owner back home, found its way into the breeding strategy.

Mathew Korteweg is breeding VikingRed cows in New Zealand

VikingRed ticks all the boxes

The Kortewegs strive to be ahead of the curve in the ever-changing climate of South Otago, where versatile cows that thrive both on the grass and indoors are a must. By strategically using VikingRed genetics, they are getting just that.

The Kortewegs first introduced VikingRed into their herd to add some robustness to their cows. Resilience to cold and hot weather, easy calvings, postpartum recovery, and overall fitness are some of the crucial traits that made the breed so desirable.

They are currently milking their first VikingRed x Holstein cows. “These newcomers are ticking all the boxes. From robust growth and successful calving to seamlessly blending with the herd,” he says.

Managing a traditional New Zealand KiwiCross herd had its challenges, as the cows would swing too much towards the Holstein or Jersey breeds. The VikingRed fills the gap perfectly in the herd breeding program. Prioritising a medium stature, strength, and components, the Kortewegs have found a balance that aligns with their goals, presenting the opportunity to breed superior, more balanced crossbred cows.

As the Kortewegs continue to fine-tune their herd, Mathew envisions his ideal crossbred – a medium-statured, 550kg cow that produces more than her body weight in milk solids. She would have snug udders, great fertility, and the ability to self-sustain and look after herself, reflecting the perfect balance of form and function.

VikingRed cow in New Zealand

Meet Mathew

"The VikingReds have filled a gap in terms of stature, strength, and still protecting what is important to us at the end of the day: the components," says Mathew.

Collaborating for a safe future

In their pursuit of genetic excellence, the Kortewegs have found a reliable partner in Samen NZ, VikingGenetics' distributor in New Zealand. With a focus on selecting the right genetics for his breeding goal, Mathew appreciates VikingGenetics and Samen's collaborative approach. He is confident that he'll always have access to the sires he needs to secure the future of his herd.

As the sun sets over Kaitangata, the Korteweg farm is a testament to innovation, resilience, and passion for dairy farming. By innovating with VikingRed genetics, they are not just shaping their future and contributing to the well-being of New Zealand's national dairy herd.

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Mathew Korteweg VikingRed New Zealand

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