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Asked by
Lan Pham
List MP · Green Party
Questions
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37759
Following Reply 36516 (2026), how many additional dairy cows does the Minister consider to be in Canterbury as compared to 1 January 2025?
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37761
Following Reply 36516 (2026), what "different estimates of the size" of the additional dairy herd in Canterbury is the Minister aware of, other than that provided by Environment Canterbury through consented effluent discharges?
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37762
Following Reply 36516 (2026), does the Minister doubt the number of additional dairy cows consented by Environment Canterbury is an accurate representation of the actual number of additional cows in the region?
Answered by
Hon Nicola Grigg
Member for Selwyn · National Party · Minister for the Environment
Answer
On 14 May 2026, Farmer's Weekly reported that "data from February 2026 showed Canterbury could have 12,500 more dairy cows following a fresh round of dairy-related consents in the previous six months." On 29 September 2025 Newsroom reported that "ECan, confirms it has issued 24 consents for dairy conversions and expansions for up to 15,792 more livestock, with another three consents pending, potentially adding 2675 cows. That brings the potential total to 18,467 animals – for consents lodged before July 18." On 28 November 2025 RNZ reported that "The Canterbury regional council said up to 25,000 more dairy cows could be added to the region's herd this year, following an end to a temporary ban on intensive dairy farm conversions." Whilst I do not doubt Environment Canterbury's collation of consenting figures, I would add that resource use being consented does not necessarily mean it will be realised on the ground. Official statistics using data from the Agricultural Production Survey indicate the cattle herd numbers vary significantly over time. For example, as of 30 June 2025 there were 1,337,343 dairy cattle in Canterbury. This is up 81,529 from 30 June 2024 at 1,255,814 but down 23,249 from 30 June 2023 at 1,360,592.