From Farm to Food: DMNZ Showcases Innovation in Deer Milk Dairy

At Deer Milking NZ (DMNZ), our mission has always been to explore and unlock the full potential of New Zealand Deer Milk—not just as a functional health ingredient, but as a premium, versatile food source. Over the past few years, our team has been investing in research and development across the food category, and the results are both delicious and groundbreaking.

R&D Highlights in Deer Milk Foods:

From the lab to the kitchen, we’ve been experimenting with deer milk in a variety of formats, including:

• Yoghurt – naturally creamy, with a subtle, slightly sweet finish

• Ice cream – ultra-rich and smooth, thanks to the unique fat and protein structure

• Kefir – fermented to retain bioactive benefits while supporting gut health

• Cheese – showcasing the exceptional flavour profile and richness of deer milk

Introducing: Deer Milk Cheese in Geraldine

We're thrilled to announce the public debut of two exclusive deer milk cheeses under the name “The Deer Milker” crafted in collaboration with the Geraldine Cheese Company — located at a nearby cheese maker to the farm.

Now available for tasting and purchase at their local shop are:

• Deer Milk Havarti – soft, buttery, and delicate on the palate

• Deer Milk Gouda – creamy, nutty, and aged to perfection

These cheeses celebrate the premium quality of single-source deer milk from Peel Forest Estate and represent a new frontier in artisan dairy innovation.

“It’s been incredible to see how well deer milk performs in traditional dairy formats,” says DMNZ Co-Founder Rebecca Davidson. “The feedback from chefs, foodies, and locals has been overwhelmingly positive—and we’re just getting started.”

Whether it’s science-backed supplements or artisan dairy, deer milk is proving to be one of New Zealand’s most exciting emerging ingredients.