Blog – Steady Growth, Smart Moves

Kevin and Nicole Oppert, part of the Milking It project, recently met with Sally from CMK Accountants to reflect on how the season is going and to review last year’s dairy season. Together, they looked back on a year where strong results on paper met the everyday realities of farming life, and where good financial planning proved just as important as good pasture management.

Now in their second season as Contract Milkers in the Bay of Plenty, Kevin and Nicole wrapped up their first season (the 2025 dairy year) with a solid overall result. Their operating profit showed that careful cost control and steady income have paid off. Sally explained that while strong profit are always encouraging, it doesn’t automatically translate to cash in the bank. Business profit flows into many areas — asset investment, family living, debt repayment, and long-term growth — so understanding where it all goes is key.

A big focus of the meeting was tax planning. With profitability comes the need to be intentional about how income is structured and allocated between the company and shareholders to make the most of available tax brackets. Planning ahead for upcoming obligations helps keep things manageable. The aim isn’t just to pay tax, but to do it in a way that fits the ebb and flow of a farming business. Sally talked through flexible payment options, using tax intermediaries like Tax Traders, and the value of updating forecasts mid-season so tax is based on what’s happening now — not just last year’s numbers. Income Equalisation was also discussed as a tool for smoothing out income between seasons, but only if the cash position allows for it.

Provisional tax was another important topic. Because it’s often based on the previous year’s performance, the new season can look quite different. Kevin and Nicole will reassess their provisional tax mid-year with Sally so payments better reflect actual farm income, reducing the risk of overpaying or facing a surprise tax bill later.

Investment decisions were also on the agenda. The equity partnership they’re part of has recently purchased a second farm, and Kevin and Nicole have been expanding their business as a result. Livestock prices are higher than in previous years, so Kevin is having to negotiate carefully to secure good stock within budget. A vehicle purchase is also on the cards, which will support operations and take advantage of the government’s Investment Boost initiative — giving them an immediate 20% tax deduction on a new vehicle.

Weather has added its own challenges this season, with recent hot, dry conditions. Kevin noted that while there’s plenty of grass, the quality has been harder to manage. Like many farmers, they’re constantly weighing up feed decisions, production goals, and financial discipline.

The CMK, Dairy Women’s Network, Figured, and MediaWorks teams plan to meet with the Oppert’s again in February for their next in-depth check-in. With their third child arriving soon and the busy season still underway, this timing gives Kevin and Nicole space to focus on family over Christmas. It also gives them time to settle into preparing for their new farming venture, while still ensuring key planning happens before major decisions need to be made. In February, CMK will update their forecast, review their tax position, and run through upcoming on-farm planning.

What stands out most from the meeting is the balance Kevin and Nicole are achieving between growth and stability, ambition and family wellbeing. They’re navigating the season with support from advisers who understand both the numbers and the realities of farming life. Their story shows that successful farming isn’t just about production — it’s about making informed choices, adapting as conditions change, and planning ahead with confidence.

CMK Accountants and the Milking It team are proud to support farming couples like the Oppert’s, who continue to build a strong future for both their family and their business. Their journey this season is a reminder that “milking it” is more than managing cows — it’s about making each decision count and shaping a business that can thrive for years to come.