As part of her degree, Danielle completed a range of summer placements across different farming systems. One placement on a dairy farm led to relief milking work throughout her studies.

Danielle says she loved the variety that came with dairy farming.

“From milking and fencing to animal health and pasture management, there’s lots involved. I was offered a full-time job after university and decided to give it a go to see whether I really wanted to work in the industry – I haven’t left!”

Danielle chose Massey’s agriscience degree because she wanted a qualification that would keep her options open.

“I liked the broad range of topics the degree covered and thought it would give me a good foundation whether I ended up on-farm or working as a rural professional. I’m really grateful for it now. I still use spreadsheets I created during my studies for farm and feed budgeting, and having a strong understanding of how farm systems work helps every day.”

One of her favourite courses was pasture production, particularly because it combined practical learning with theory.

“I loved getting out on the farmlets, working with the sheep and learning practical skills I still use today. My lecturer was fantastic at explaining things in a way that made sense and was always willing to help.”

Beyond technical knowledge, Danielle says university taught her lessons that continue to shape her approach to farming.

“University taught me perseverance. Studying didn’t come naturally to me, so I had to work hard and stay focused. Dairy farming requires the same. There are always challenges, but resilience and perseverance are two of the most important qualities a farmer can have.”

Upon reflection, Danielle says it was the people she met during her time at Massey who stand out most.

“It still amazes me when I go to industry events and see so many people who studied at the same time as me. When I finished university, it was great having friends working across the industry who I could call on for advice and expertise,” Danielle says.

Since graduating, she has built on those foundations to become a respected voice among the next generation of agricultural leaders. Her recent Emerging Leader Award at the Primary Industries Awards recognised her farming achievements alongside her commitment to helping others succeed.

“It was very humbling to be named alongside James Robertson and Ben Purua, who are doing amazing work in their communities. A lot of the initiatives I’ve been involved with stem from my Young Farmers club, Morrinsville-Ngarua, so I see the award as something our whole club can be proud of,” Danielle says.

Community has become a consistent theme throughout Danielle’s career. Alongside farming, she has been heavily involved in Young Farmers, fundraising efforts, school engagement and volunteering within rural communities. Through these activities she has focused on creating opportunities for others and fostering connections within the sector.

“Farming can be an isolating job, so becoming involved in groups is important. It helps people connect with others and look after their wellbeing.”

For Danielle, leadership in the primary sector is about ensuring people understand the opportunities available within agriculture and feel encouraged to pursue them.

“We need more young people entering the industry with their fresh ideas and perspectives. New Zealand’s dairy sector offers unique progression pathways, from farm employee through to herd owner and farm ownership, and it’s important that we continue to protect those opportunities.”

She is also optimistic about the future of agriculture and the role emerging technologies will play.

“Science, technology and artificial intelligence are becoming part of everyday farm management. The next generation will use these tools to improve efficiency, environmental outcomes and work-life balance, alongside developing skills in business, technology, environmental science and communication. Farming is becoming increasingly skilled and multi-faceted, and it deserves to be recognised that way. It’s a future-focused industry that’s always evolving.”

Her message to students considering a career in agriculture is to get amongst it.

“It’s such a broad industry, with so many different pathways to explore. Whether you want to go straight into farming, study first or combine work and study, there are opportunities everywhere. If you’re not sure where you want to end up, an agriscience degree is a great place to start. It gives you a broad foundation and helps you discover what you’re passionate about and find your own path.”