Cattle Finance for NZ Farmers

Compare cattle finance options in NZ. Fund dairy or beef stock with clear rates, LVRs, and timelines. Apply online for a fast pre-qualification.

How cattle finance works

Cattle finance provides funding specifically for purchasing dairy cows, beef cattle, or breeding stock. The facility is secured by the cattle themselves, with repayments typically aligned to milk payouts or stock sales.

Key Features

• Advance rates that vary by lender and stock type
• Interest-only or principal & interest options
• Flexible repayment terms
• Review cycles aligned to your operation

Rates, terms & example deals

The figures below are indicative examples only — not a quote or an offer of finance. Actual rates, LVRs, fees and terms vary by lender and are subject to approval.

Dairy Cattle Example

200 replacement heifers $400,000

LVR (75%): $300,000

Interest rate: 8.5% p.a. (assumed)

Monthly interest: ~$2,125

Your deposit: $100,000

Beef Cattle Example

100 weaner steers $180,000

LVR (70%): $126,000

Interest rate: 9.0% p.a. (assumed)

Monthly interest: ~$945

Your deposit: $54,000

Eligibility & documentation

Experience Required

• 2+ years cattle management
• Proven track record
• NAIT compliance
• Herd health programs

Financial Documents

• Recent financial statements
• Cashflow projections
• Bank statements
• Tax returns

Cattle Information

• Purchase agreements
• Vendor details
• Health certificates
• Insurance policies

Managing seasonality & cashflow

Dairy Operations

Dairy cattle finance aligns with milk payout cycles. Interest-only periods during low payout months help manage cashflow, with principal repayments during peak earning periods.

• Seasonal interest-only options
• Payout-linked repayments
• Calving season flexibility
• Dry period support

Beef Operations

Beef cattle finance matches your trading cycle. Purchase weaners in autumn, grow through winter/spring, and sell as finished cattle with repayments from sale proceeds.

• Trading cycle alignment
• Flexible draw-down timing
• Sale-linked repayments
• Weight gain monitoring

Cattle Finance Questions

Do lenders fund dairy, beef, or both?

Both are funded. Provide details by class, age, and intended program (e.g., replacement, finishing).

How many head can I finance?

It depends on price/head, LVR, and your deposit. Use our purchase capacity calculator for an estimate.

Do I need insurance on cattle?

Yes. Stock insurance is typically required and should align with facility conditions.

Can I increase limits during the season?

Limit increases are subject to review, collateral, and trading performance. Plan ahead for seasonal peaks.

Ready to Finance Your Cattle Purchase?

Get pre-qualified and see your cattle finance options.

Apply for Cattle Finance 🐄