How do sharemilking agreements work?
Common question · Agribusiness & Rural Law · New Zealand · 23 October 2026
General information from Lawmateanz
A sharemilker runs a dairy farm for the owner in return for a share of the milk income. In New Zealand, the Sharemilking Agreements Act 1937 sets minimum terms for herd-owning sharemilking agreements.
Many use standard industry agreements, which cover duties, income shares, costs, notice periods and dispute resolution.
Variable order sharemilkers and contract milkers work under different arrangements, so check which type of agreement you have.
Federated Farmers has information on standard agreements, and a rural lawyer can review terms before you sign.
Written by Lawmateanz, not by a lawyer. General information only, not legal advice about your situation. For advice about your own matter, talk to a lawyer.
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