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Six generations. One decision that changed everything.

Josh Storey didn't plan to return to Woodstock Farms in Te Awamutu, Waikato. But when the pandemic hit, a temporary calving season turned into a complete career change. Now, he and his wife Bayley are fine-tuning what his parents, Doug and Penny built whilst preparing to become the sixth generation on their 180-hectare dairy operation, milking 500 cows at peak.

After the 2008 dairy crisis pushed them to rethink their approach, the Storeys made a crucial decision, transitioning their entire herd to Samen genetics. Twelve years later, the results speak for themselves: stronger udders, better suspensory ligaments, and cows that last longer whilst maintaining production targets of 105-110% body weight in milk solids.

Their mating strategy is precise: 2.5 weeks of sexed semen for replacements, followed by beef, creating a tightly condensed group that makes everything from calf rearing to weaning more efficient. "We're breeding a medium-sized Friesians now," Josh explains, "and that seems to be working."

The support has been just as important as the genetics. Josh values having his Samen rep available whenever needed whether it's dropping off straws, topping up the AB tank, or simply looking at cows. It's a relationship built on trust and results.

Sometimes the best business decisions come from the toughest times. For Woodstock Farms, combining family legacy with modern genetics has created a sustainable system built to last another six generations.