Addressing challenges
The replacement system addresses critical issues with the current system:
- Unsatisfactory farmer experience when using the system.
- Technological barriers to compliance that frustrate users.
- Hard-to-maintain legacy technology.
- Need for higher quality data to support disease management.
- Limited data access for key stakeholders.
Benefits for everyone
We are designing the new system with all users in mind. For:
- farmers — a user-friendly system that reduces administration and allows for flexible data entry that works with on-farm routines and technology
- ear tag manufacturers — smooth information exchange between tag producers and the NAIT information system
- stock agents, saleyards and meat processors — fast, intuitive online tools with efficient system-integration capabilities
- information providers — better integration for accredited organisations helping clients meet obligations
- industry shareholders — safeguarding export opportunities and maintaining trust in dairy, beef and deer industries
- Ministry for Primary Industries — near real-time data access for rapid response to animal health threats.
Funding and value
Industry levies and government contributions will continue to fund the NAIT replacement system. This reflects the system's importance to the primary sector and all New Zealanders. The improved system will deliver value through:
- reduced compliance costs
- better data quality
- enhanced emergency response capabilities.
What’s next?
Procurement progress update — August 2025
We’ve now entered the Request for Proposals (RFP) phase of the NAIT replacement system procurement process. This marks a major milestone in selecting a technology partner to help us deliver a modern, easy-to-use NAIT system. It also signals completion of the formal requirements-gathering phase.
The RFP builds on insights gained during the earlier Request for Information (RFI) process and reflects refined requirements shaped by stakeholder feedback. It invites technology providers to submit detailed proposals covering system design, build, support, and future enhancements.
Project phases
We are taking a careful, phased approach:
- Phase A (complete) — technical assessment and decision to rebuild the system.
- Phase B (complete) — developing detailed requirements and architecture.
- Phase C (from July 2025 to February 2026) — selecting technology partners and finalising implementation plans.
- Phase D (from 2026) — building and rolling out the new system in stages.
We're committed to creating a solution that works for everyone who uses it. Farmers and industry stakeholders will have many opportunities to contribute to the system's design. We’ll publish NAIT replacement system project updates and opportunities to get involved on this page.
For more information about the project, email info@ospri.co.nz