Holstein Innovation is a joint programme between Holstein Friesian New Zealand and LIC that aims to identify and breed from elite Holstein Friesian genetics, infusing diversity where possible.
The Holstein Innovation programme specifically targets S3F/Full Pedigree (F16) females with dams within the pedigree holding a minimum classification of GP83. Each year, up to 200 nominated females will undergo genomic screening, with an open age group.
To nominate your high BW cow or heifer calf, submit them for consideration to the HFNZ and LIC subcommittee. Breeders will be offered purchase agreements with LIC, and the purchase price is negotiated between the Breeder and LIC.
- Open age
- All females nominated must be a minimum of F16 (S3F/Full Pedigree)
- Minimum Classification GP83 on female line
- Free parentage testing
- LIC will genomically test up to 200 nominated females annually
- Contract mating through LIC's AI program
- Genomically screened bull progeny have the potential to be purchased by LIC
- Breeders are eligible for LIC remuneration from marketed bulls with royalty or fixed price options
- Holstein Friesian NZ will receive royalties from marketed bulls
| Holstein Innovation Female Programme | Discovery Project | |
|---|---|---|
| Programme Description | Contract mating programme. Female component aimed at identifying elite genetics and providing access to LIC elite young sires. Open to all ages. | Advanced embryo/TVR/MOET programme supporting breeders to develop top cow families and breed AI bulls. Embryo programme for elite heifers. |
| Objective | Identify elite Holstein Friesian genetics to breed from | Support breeders in developing top cow families and breeding bulls for the AI industry |
| Age/eligibility | Elite females, open age. Minimum F16 pedigree. Classification GP83 or above, female line. | Registered rising one year old heifers screened. Approx 300 tested, 50 selected. Heifer calves born the previous spring (e.g., 2025-born for the 2026 team). |
| Genomic Screening | Up to 200 nominated females annually. | Genomic screening of up to 300 heifers. 50 selected as potential bull dams. |
| Benefits | Parentage testing, genomic evaluation, AI mating.
Contract mating through LIC's elite young sires. |
Free genomic evaluation, parentage & defect testing, free semen for TVR/MOET (and AI mating if agreed).
No breeding restrictions. Classification discounts. Free LIC CustomMate Plus for home herd. |
| Mating Programme | AI programme accessing LIC’s elite young sires. | TVR/MOET options with NZ providers.
LIC semen supplied, optional for AI mating. |
| Bull Progeny | LIC may purchase bulls with both fixed price or royalty options available. LIC pay a rearing contribution for non-purchased bulls. | LIC may purchase bulls with both fixed price or royalty options available. Potential extra ET payments and LIC rearing contribution for non-purchased bulls. |
| Royalty Notes | HFNZ receives royalties from marketed bulls and the opportunity to sell semen from any young bulls accepted into LIC’s Sire Proving scheme. | HFNZ receives royalty per straw for marketed bulls. |
