According to Fonterra’s latest Global Dairy Update its New Zealand milk collections fell 5.3% YOY in December, season to date intake tracking 3.1% behind the season prior.

Milk intake in the North Island was down 7.0% YOY for the month, and 3.2% behind the previous season as near record temperatures and periods of heavy rain contributed to poor grass growth across much of the North Island. Recovery in the second half of December was not enough to offset losses incurred in the first half of the month. Milk output in the South Island was less impacted, however intake still fell 2.9% YOY in December, seasonal production tracking 3.1% behind prior year comparable.