NZ Dairy Winter 2025

106 | nzdairy RURAL SERVICES » New Zealand Milking and Pumping Trade Association Milking machinery is one of the most valuable and by far the most vital piece of equipment on a dairy farm. Elevating standards across the dairy sector Karen Phelps The New Zealand Milking and Pumping Trade Association (MPTA) continues to elevate standards across the dairy sector, ensuring farmers receive consistent, high-quality service from its network of over 180 member companies. Established in 1932, the MPTA has built a reputation for bringing higher standards of equipment and workmanship to clients in milk harvesting and water application. It’s members collectively employ over 1,000 multi-skilled technicians and support staff who work directly on farms across the country. “The milking and pumping industry is a vital and significant part of the dairy service industry,” says Maria Scott, MPTA Executive Officer. “MPTA invests in training in order to continuously develop and improve the multi-sector specialist skills necessary for members to meet the expectations and needs of the dairy sector.” The association’s primary activities focus on developing and implementing standards for the design and performance of milk harvesting, pumping and water application industries. It fosters training and competence development amongst members as well as encouraging ethical and professional trading practices and promoting business interests within the sector. Central to the MPTA’s mission is its comprehensive training programmes, which includes training of all milking machine testers who must undergo extensive MPTA training before being listed on the organisation’s Register of Milking Machine Testers. Maria says this registry is an important resource for farmers seeking qualified professionals in their area. “Our core training is the Milking Machine Testing course which teaches technicians how all the components of a milking machine work together and how they should function optimally,” explains Maria. “The training encompasses fault diagnosis and the ability to provide recommendations for maintenance and improvements across all brands of milking machinery.” MPTA Registered Testers undergo auditing every two years by an independent body, ensuring they maintain the ISO standard of testing required for impartial assessments. Maria says this guarantees farmers receive consistent service levels regardless of which registered tester they engage. The association’s training encompasses the broader farm infrastructure. Milking Machine Technicians receive training in evaluating cleaning dynamics and troubleshooting milk quality and mastitis issues to minimise risk of grades. But it’s not all about the milking machine, as pump and water/effluent technicians are also trained by MPTA and form a valuable part of the farm service team, addressing questions and issues with pump systems, washdown systems, water supply and effluent systems. For farmers considering new designs or improving existing systems, the MPTA member’s skilled technicians can also provide reliable expertise. “The long-term relationships built between member companies and farming clients often span multiple generations, reflecting the trust and value these professionals bring to dairy operations. Milking machinery is one of the most valuable and by far the most vital piece of equipment on a dairy farm. It is crucial that farmers ensure it is always working at its best, and our members can provide that level of confidence.” Farmers seeking registered testers in their area can access the MPTA website at www.nzmpta.co.nz, where they can locate qualified professionals and book annual milking machine tests to ensure their operations maintain peak efficiency. Brad Hosking - 027 754 6075 - 24 hours | office@highlinedairy.co.nz MILKING SYSTEMS ead Mainland Engineering proudly supports New Zealand Milking & Pumping Trade Association with 24/7 Service Feel free to call in, visit our shop and discuss any requirements you have in regards to your dairy shed. DeLaval Service and Support milking solutions Ph 07 348 3628 19 White Street, Rotorua www.abcmilkingsolutions.co.nz        Milking Machines Dairy Consumables Machine Tests Davey Supplier Trenching DeLaval InService (Preventative Maintenance) McConnel Backing Gates      Water Pumps & Fittings E uent Systems Bore Lifts Irrigation Services Reid & Harrison

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