MAF will on Monday begin a new scheme aimed at bobby calf welfare.

Treatment of the calves has long been a source of controversy for the dairy sector, as farmers seek to offload them for what little money they can.

This year MAF will work with Federated Farmers, the New Zealand Veterinary Association and Fonterra to advise farmers on calf welfare.

MAF Acting Director-General Warwick Foran says it’s important to engage with farmers, as most want to do the right thing.

“We want to go on to farms and meet and talk directly with farmers. And we’ll expand the programme so rather than cover a few selected regions we’ll look at more of a national focus.”

MAF ran a similar programme last calving season, and Mr Foran is confident the response can be even better this year.