New Zealand is a world leader in international dairying, accounting for around 35% of the world’s traded dairy products. South Waikato District with its lush pastures has for many years been the base for a prosperous farming industry. Diversification from traditional dairying to a more mixed regime including deer, goats and ostrich, is being developed in the District. The central location of the district along State Highway One has been a major influence in the continued success of agriculture, along with well developed support services. Engineering, transportation and construction services are particular strengths, along with the convenient, cost-effective rail link to the Ports of Tauranga and Auckland which is well utilised by the dairy processing industry.

Fonterra’s Lichfield factory incorporates the latest technology to deliver an international quality product. The factory is capable of processing three million litres of milk a day into about 350 tonnes of cheese for export.

The local Dairy industry is well siupported throught the Dairy Push programme- a joint venture between Fonterra, Dairy New Zealand, South Waikato District Council and 60 local farmers. Dairy Push is focused on the need to improve farming management and best preactice skills. The programme takes a 'bottom up' approach to deciding what, when and how various extension programmes will be delivered.