Beef cattle livestock numbers in New Zealand 2011-2024

As of June 2024, there were approximately 3.66 million beef cattle in New Zealand, a slight decrease from the previous year, when there were around 3.65 million beef cattle in the country. The number of beef cattle, including bulls, steers, and cows fluctuated during the measured period.

Livestock farming industry in New Zealand

New Zealand is well known for its superior livestock industry, especially in sheep and beef production. While the large sheep population in New Zealand has historical significance, it has declined significantly during the last ten years. The decline can be attributed to numerous factors, including the conversion of sheep farming land for alternative purposes such as urban expansion, the expansion of dairy farming, and the development of horticulture farming. Apart from sheep, there has also been a decrease in the number of lamb cattle.

New Zealand’s dairy farming industry

The dairy industry is vital to the country’s broader agricultural sector. New Zealand’s cows produce milk processed into various dairy products, consumed locally and internationally. Thus, the dairy industry accounts for a significant amount of New Zealand's export revenue. The environmental challenges facing dairy producers nationwide have gained increasing attention from the public and environmental organizations. The degradation of water quality and greenhouse gas emissions associated with dairy cattle production are two key issues being discussed.