The Korteweg Legacy of Balance, Innovation, and Passion in Dairy Farming
In Kaitangata, South Otago, the Korteweg family is challenging tradition and changing the way they dairy farm. Anchored in a third-generation dairy farm, Mathew Korteweg, accompanied by his wife Catherine and their two sons, Beau and Leo, has been steering the ship for a decade, embracing the challenges and joys that come with 500 cows under their care.
People and Cows: The Heart of Korteweg Farm:
For the Kortewegs, the farm's beating heart lies in two vital components - their people and their cows. Individuals like Brayden, Ashleigh and Megan create a team full of passion that echoes the same commitment as Mathew and Catherine. Together, they strive not only for farm success but for a harmonious work-life balance, creating an environment everyone is proud to be a part of.
Bridging Tradition and Innovation:
Purchasing the herd from Mathew's parents, the Kortewegs made a strategic move to trim the herd by a hundred head, steering the farm towards a future focused on per-cow performance and animal health. In the ever-changing climate of South Otago, the cows here are expected to be versatile - thriving both outdoors and indoors. Winter resilience, postpartum recovery, and overall fitness become crucial, all achieved through a combination of excellent genetics and nutrition.
A Leap into the Three-Way Cross Concept:
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 the Three Way Cross concept, an idea that sparked curiosity and eventually once Mathew became a herd owner in New Zealand, found its way into their genetic management strategy.
VikingReds: A New Chapter in Dairy Excellence:
The Kortewegs, always keen on staying ahead of the curve, introduced VikingRed genetics into their herd. Seeking a more robust crossbreeding system, they are currently milking their first VikingRed x Holstein cows. According to Mathew, these newcomers are ticking all the boxes, from robust growth and successful calving to seamlessly blending with the existing herd.
The Quest for Balance in the Herd:
Managing a traditional New Zealand KiwiCross herd that swung between Holstein and Jersey breeds posed its challenges, cows would either lean too much towards a Jersey or a Holstein. The VikingRed – a strategic addition to the mix, filled the gap perfectly in the herds breeding program. Prioritising medium stature, strength, and components, the Kortewegs have found a balance that aligns with their goals, presenting the opportunity to breed a superior balanced crossbred cow.
Dreaming of the Ideal Cow:
As the Kortewegs continue to fine-tune their herd, Mathew envisions his dream cow – a medium- statured beauty weighing in at 550kg, producing a minimum of her body weight in milk solids. A cow with a snug udder, great fertility, and the ability to self-sustain and look after herself, reflecting the
perfect balance of form and function.
Collaboration with Samen NZ:
In their pursuit of genetic excellence, the Kortewegs have found a reliable partner in Samen NZ, the distributor of VikingGenetics in New Zealand. With a focus on picking genetics aligned with their goals, Mathew appreciates the collaborative approach, knowing he can lean on his local Samen NZ reps to deliver the sires he needs and go the extra mile.
As the sun sets over Kaitangata, the Kortewegs' dairy farm stands as a testament to innovation, resilience, and a passion that runs as deep as the roots that anchor them to this land. Through balancing tradition with innovation, they are not just shaping their own family legacy but contributing to the evolving narrative of dairy farming in New Zealand.
