Connecterra expands access to AI technology for NZ dairy farmers through Fonterra
The company has signed an agreement with Fonterra Co-Operative Group Limited and will be sold through its retail division, Farm Source.
Connecterra’s Ida (intelligent dairy assistant) platform combines behavior data collected via proprietary collar-mounted sensors with data from internet-connected farm systems, farm equipment and third-party sources. Ida then uses AI to translate the data into real-time insights, which Connecterra said are easy to understand through the app.
Users respond to insights with just a few taps. This feedback is processed using machine learning, allowing Ida to become smarter and more personalized for each farm over time.
The announcement follows the August completion of a two-year trial at Cloverlea Farm, a split calving farm in South Waikato.
“Ida’s technology is different. She learns you and your farm. It’s easy to see the difference in our in-calf rates and animal health. There is so much potential for other farms in New Zealand,” said farm owner, Chris Poole.
The nationwide rollout began in the South Waikato region in August. With mating season for New Zealand dairy cows traditionally taking place in October, Connecterra said early customers are using Ida to help with tasks such as detecting heats and drafting for insemination.
“Our goal is to empower farmers globally to increase productivity while reducing the impact of farming on the planet. After seeing strong, positive results during the pilot, we’re pleased to see Ida technology scale across New Zealand,” said Yasir Khokhar, CEO of Connecterra.
