New Zealand Goat Farming
The introduction of commercial dairy goat farming in New Zealand began in the late 1970s and early 1980s, but remains to this day an extremely small industry in comparison to the New Zealand cow industry. While there are over 10,000 cow farmers in New Zealand, there are less than 100 goat farmers.
Predominantly farmed for the production of goat milk, meat and fibre, 72% of the dairy goat population is found in the Waikato region with the three main breeds being:
- Saanen: has short white hair and upright ears.
- Toggenburg: coat colour ranges from light brown to mouse grey with white Swiss markings to the face, lower legs, and tail area.
- British Alpine: typically with a black coat and white Swiss markings on the face, however they can exhibit a variety of coat colours and patterns also.
These goat breeds were selected for farming due to their high protein productivity and suitability for producing goat milk. Goats are milked twice a day on a daily basis, with the two main methods in New Zealand being the herringbone system and the rotary milking shed. The herringbone system enables the goats to be arranged at a 45° angle away from the milking equipment which allows for easy access for the milkers and farmhands.
The rotary shed on the other hand resembles a carousel in that the goats each enter their own section, and the machine spins them around the rotary function while they are being milked. To keep the goats calm and happy, they are also fed while being milked and in theory should arrive back at the start once they are finished milking.
Goats appreciate variety in their diet, so besides grazing on grass, they thrive on other locally grown, on-farm forages such as clover, lucerne, hay, silage, plantain or pasture plants. Some goats also feed on grains and molasses which are high in protein and energy.
Goats also prefer shelter from the wind, rain and sun as unlike cows and sheep, they are more vulnerable to the elements (and susceptible to sunburn). For this reason, about half the goat farms here in New Zealand provide indoor housing to their goats to ensure adequate shelter and protection from extreme weather conditions. Goats raised in sheltered barns also tend to grow larger in size than goats raised outdoors in open paddocks.
Why goat milk?
Goat milk has been consumed for centuries. During ancient times, in regions that were particularly mountainous or where cow milk was less readily available, goat milk was seen as a staple and a vital source of nutrition.
Unique flavour profile. Goat milk is known to have a creamy, sweet taste that can add to the flavour of food. Its versatility also makes it a great ingredient to feature in cooking, baking and smoothies.
Goat goodness. Goat milk is a naturally nutritious source of essential vitamins, minerals and protein due to its unique fatty acid, protein and oligosaccharide (prebiotic) profile. It is a good source of calcium to support healthy bones and teeth, and has protein that contributes to the maintenance of muscle mass. Besides calcium, goat milk also contains potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, selenium, iodine, manganese and chloride, as well as Vitamins A, B2, B3, B6 and D. As a result of its nutritional value, goat milk’s use has expanded into skincare and infant nutrition.
At Baby Steps, we believe in the natural goodness of goat milk to nourish and support your little one as they take their adventurous first steps through life.
- NZ Made and Owned: All our production takes place locally at facilities we own, allowing for complete oversight and control over the manufacturing process.
- Fresh Goodness: We work alongside local New Zealand goat farmers to source fresh New Zealand goat milk.
- Optimal Ingredients: By adding optimal ingredients to the natural goodness of goat milk, our products support your child’s growth and development, giving you peace of mind that your little one’s nutritional needs are being met.
- Honest Goodness: From farm to shelf, we can honestly ensure that all caregivers can feel safe in their decision to use Baby Steps products.
Why mums trust and love Baby Steps:
“Just want to leave a review to say this had quite literally changed my baby’s life ahha. Tried almost every formula on the market as I couldn’t breast feed, and my baby was met with bad reactions and side effects. Looked into healthy, safe alternatives without too many nasties and found goat milk the closest. Since switching to this my baby has slept beautifully, gained weight perfectly, had clear skin and no more awful tummy gas and spit ups, and NO CONSTIPATION!!! Well worth every penny for a healthy baby. Thank you so much for this milk, our wee man loves his sweet goat’s milk!” – Laura
“I switched to this goat milk formula for my toddler, and the results were almost immediate. His eczema, which had been a constant struggle, improved quickly, and his skin is now so much clearer. Not only is it gentle on his stomach, but he also loves the taste! It’s been a game-changer for us, and I highly recommend it for little ones with sensitive skin or digestion issues. Will definitely be purchasing in the future.” – Katie
“Very happy with this toddler milk and my 2 year old loves it! She’ll point up at the container asking for her milks in the morning and evening so definitely a hit with her. We’re aware we could swap to normal milk but enjoy having the added benefits of toddler milk a couple of times a day. We would absolutely continue purchasing.” – Josie
Discover the natural goodness of goat milk for your little one with Baby Steps, and enjoy 20% off your first order when you sign up.