Episode 83 – Rethinking animal welfare
As new wearable technologies for animals have surged in popularity, specific advice on the use of them within the dairy sector is to be included in an imminent review of the Animal Welfare Code: Dairy Cattle.
In this episode, Sarah speaks with Dr Matthew Stone, veterinarian and Chair of the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC), about the review of the Dairy Cattle Code of Welfare and how rapid technological change is reshaping animal care standards.
Guest:
- Dr Matthew Stone, Chairperson, National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee
Host:
- Sarah Perriam-Lampp, CEO and Editor-in-Chief, CountryWide
Matthew Stone is guiding how New Zealand’s animal welfare framework evolves to keep pace with innovation across the farming sector. Drawing on his extensive experience in veterinary science, biosecurity and international policy, he focuses on ensuring that advances in agritech align with best practice in animal care and ethical standards.
As Chair of the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee, Matthew works with industry, government and farmers to strengthen confidence in welfare regulation and its ability to respond to new challenges. His collaborative approach helps maintain New Zealand’s reputation for high welfare standards while supporting practical, science-based decision-making on farm.
Read the article in the 2025 Spring issue of CountryWide here.