Repeatedly low wheat prices are driving more farmers to turn to dairy.
The Canterbury Regional Council says up to 25-thousand more dairy cows could be added to the region this year - with 32 new farms given the green light.
Federated Farmers' confidence survey in July found 81 percent of dairy farmers surveyed were making a profit, compared to just 40 percent of arable.
National Dairy Chair Karl Dean told Mike Hosking that dairy has a more consistent cash flow.
He says arable farmers are the ones with the land to convert.
LISTEN ABOVE

Mike's Minute: It's still our year
01:44

Steve Price: Australian correspondent on One Nation looking to bring down the number of international students
07:12

Commentary Box: Andrew Saville and Jason Pine discuss the All Blacks' loss and the Warriors' upcoming clash against the Knights
11:27