Milking Shorthorn

Known as the Milking Shorthorn in New Zealand, Canada and the United States and the Dairy Shorthorn in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia and South Africa, this breed of cow was historically the most famous breed of cattle in the world.

Originating in Britain, it was first known as the Durham or Teeswater from the Counties of Durham and York and was a breeding combination of the Old Teeswater which was famous for its milk yields and the large-buttocked Holderness cows.

The Shorthorn was the first cattle to arrive in New Zealand, introduced in 1814 by Missionary, Samuel Marsden. They were two cows and a bull from the New South Wales Crown Herd and were a gift from Governor Macquarie.

Further shipments followed, primarily to provide milk for missionaries and early settlers. They were also put to work as draught cattle, hauling logs, and pulling wagons.

By the 1840’s Shorthorns were well established in New Zealand and by 1880 there were 500,000 cattle. For many years they were the most popular breed and have made an important contribution to both our dairy and beef industries.

Being dual-purpose cattle, they have had a reputation of being exceptionally good milkers as well as producing excellent meat.  Known for their fertility, docile temperament, and structural soundness, they are efficient eaters, are easy calvers and have a long production life.

Alan and Sue Moore farm in the Mangamaire district south of Pahiatua and have 120 shorthorns in their dairy herd.

Alan’s association with the breed goes back 45 years when his father milked them on the family farm.

Alan said a shorthorn’s production is very good, similar to that of a Friesian, with their cows averaging 460 kgs/milk solids. They have less health issues, are very hardy on their feet and cope well in diverse weather conditions. And the bull calves are good for dairy beef.

Despite this, shorthorns are now regarded as a rare breed and today there are only 2000 registered pedigree shorthorn cows in New Zealand.