An economist is warning that global dairy prices could fall later in the year if production in other countries starts ramping up.
The average selling price in the latest fortnightly auction increased by 0.9 percent to $US3807 per tonne, though volumes were down.
Benchmark whole milk powder rose by 2.4 percent and butter milk powder rose by 17 percent.
But the global dairy trade index is still below where it stood in March last year.
Economists say that, based on similar trends in the past, dairy prices should stabilise further over the coming auctions, and then recover in the second half of the year.
However, opinion is divided over the reason behind the recent slump in prices.
Some blame Chinese buyers who are thought to have stockpiled large quantities of milk powder early in the year.
Others, including ASB Bank economist, Nathan Penny, say the main reason is a bumper season for New Zealand farmers.
He said moving into the new season milk production growth should be more modest and downward pressure on prices should start to ease and prices should start to stabilise and even recover.
But Mr Penny said there were downside risks, including the possibility that dairy production in Europe and the United States could ramp up and put downward pressure on prices.
Europe is just heading into the height of its dairy production season.
