There's only one thing left to do on the South Canterbury farm, where a newly detected cattle disease has emerged.

Fourteen cows affected by Mycoplasma bovis will have to be culled.

And another 150 animals are showing signs they may be affected.

Massey University epidemiologist Roger Morris told Nadine Higgins the disease has caused major problems overseas.

"What's go to be determined yet is how widespread it is. Is it limited to a very small number of herds in South Canterbury or is it actually more widespread."

Morris said the disease causes a variety of problems.

"Treatment has proved unsuccessful around the world and the animals basically have to be culled."

Mycoplasma bovis can cause pneumonia, udder infections, arthritis and ear infections.

LISTEN ABOVE AS ROGER MORRIS SPEAKS WITH NADINE HIGGINS