13-15 April 2026
Lincoln University

The South Island Dairy Event (SIDE) is a two day conference for farmers, led by farmers

Established in 1998, we provide a forum for those involved in the South Island dairy industry to evaluate and apply knowledge, skills and technology to their business. SIDE has grown to become New Zealand’s premier dairy conference and the largest event of its type in the country.

 

SIDE's mission is to "Inspire amd empower the next generation of leaders in the South Island dairy industry"

 

Tuesday 14 April 2026 at Lincoln University

BrightSIDE is back at Lincoln University in 2026!

BrightSIDE is designed especially for young people curious about the opportunities in dairy - from hands-on farming to cutting-edge technology and science.

Kick off the day with an inspiring panel of young industry leaders, as they share their journeys, career highlights, and how they’re shaping the future of dairy. Hear how today’s skills can lead to tomorrow’s jobs - even in careers that don’t exist yet.

Then, roll up your sleeves in a series of interactive workshops designed to showcase the diversity of skills in modern dairying. 

Whether you're a student exploring your future, or someone considering a fresh start in dairying - BrightSIDE is your gateway to a rewarding career in the dairy sector.

For more information click on the BrightSIDE tab in the header

 

 
Latest News

Registrations are now open for 2025!

Registrations are now open for 2025!

Register now for 2025!

  • 1832
April Arrival: SIDE Shakes Up Schedule and Venue for its 2025 Edition

April Arrival: SIDE Shakes Up Schedule and Venue for its 2025 Edition

South Island Dairy Event (SIDE) is set to make history as it heads to Timaru for the very first time and is breaking tradition by moving its annual gathering from June to April—a bold move that promises a fresh perspective and invigorated approach.

  • 7344
The Carr Family Foundation and their Health & Wellness Programme will be at SIDE for 2024

The Carr Family Foundation and their Health & Wellness Programme will be at SIDE for 2024

Last year at SIDE in Invercargill, farmers and rural professionals lined up for a Rural Wellness Check-Up. Farmers attending SIDE this year will get the same opportunity.

  • 21378
King’s Birthday Honours 2024: The Country’s Jamie Mackay made Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit

King’s Birthday Honours 2024: The Country’s Jamie Mackay made Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit

Jamie Mackay, host of The Country, has been made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit, for services to broadcasting and the rural community, in this year’s King’s Birthday Honours.

Mackay has been a pioneer of rural radio, driving the broadcasting of rural content nationally through New Zealand’s leading rural network show, The Country.

  • 4813
DairyNZ Board welcomes new associate director, farewells independent director

DairyNZ Board welcomes new associate director, farewells independent director

Photo: Jonathon Hoets

Jonathon Hoets has been selected to join the DairyNZ Board as an associate director for the next year, while current independent director, Margaret Devlin, is stepping down from her role.

DairyNZ chairman Jim van der Poel says that he is excited to have Jonathon join the Board, in the associate director role, as he has shown a commitment to governance, and significant involvement in industry good already.

  • 5044
Registrations are Now Open for the Premier Dairy Conference in New Zealand

Registrations are Now Open for the Premier Dairy Conference in New Zealand

The highly anticipated South Island Dairy Event (SIDE) is back for its 25th year, bringing together farmers from across the South Island for a two-day conference filled with valuable workshops and expert speakers. This year's event will take place at Lincoln University, Canterbury from June 24th to June 26th, offering attendees the opportunity to gain insight into cutting-edge research and network with like-minded individuals.

  • 5997
Farmers share their favourite bits of pocket tech

Farmers share their favourite bits of pocket tech

Apps can lighten the load on farm, helping farmers monitor everything from birthing cows to boundary lines.

  • 8532