Farm Assistant

$25.00 - $30.00 hourly
Permanent - Full Time Farm Assistant

Job Description

We are currently seeking a farm assistant to join our team on a large-scale dairy farm located in Balfour, Southland. Our operation milks 1,500 cows across 550 hectares, with a strong focus on animal health, pasture management, and team collaboration. We are self-contained, wintering our own cows in two large free stall barns. Our young stock is also close by on neighboring run off blocks. We use Halter Collars for fencing and herd management. Our current employees are a great team with expectations that you'd be reliable, motivated, keen and able to use your initiative. This is an excellent opportunity to be part of a progressive farming operation that embraces modern systems as well as striving towards continuous improvement in the dairy industry.

The role would include, but is not limited to:

  • Milking the cows through a fully automated 80 bale rotary shed
  • Cleaning the shed/plant thoroughly after each milking
  • Identifying any unwell cows and administering the necessary health treatments
  • Stock handling and pasture management using Halter collar technology
  • Carrying out basic farm jobs such as fixing fences, troughs and weed control
  • Adhering to all farm health and safety practices

We’re looking for someone who:

  • Has a minimum of level 2 agricultural qualification or relevant experience
  • Has a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn

  • Demonstrates initiative and can work both independently and as part of a team

  • Has a driver’s license

  • Has confidence around livestock

  • Is reliable, honest, and communicates well

  • Can ride a 2 or 4-wheeler motorbike competently                                                                                        
  • Clear health record and no criminal convictions                                                                                                                                                                      
  • Is a New Zealand resident or holds a current visa -PLEASE DO NOT APPLY IF YOU CAN'T ATTEND AN INTERVIEW

What we offer:

  • A forward-thinking farming environment using Halter geofencing and livestock monitoring systems

  • A supportive, respectful team culture with a focus on growth and development

  • Competitive pay based on experience and capability ( $25 - $30 /hour ) 

  • Minimum guaranteed hours of 30/week
  • Single person accommodation

  • Genuine opportunities for career progression

If you'd like to find out about our business, please feel free to view the farm website:

Glendhu Dairies ~ Farming together for a sustainable future

Farm Size (ha)

550

Peak Herd Size (cows)

1500

Typical On-farm Staff

8

Position Start Date

28/07/2025

Accommodation available

One bedroom cottage available (suitable only for single person)

Hour Type

negotiable

Average Hours Per week

40

Roster

Single rotation - 4 Days on / 2 days Off

Remuneration paid by

Hourly / Daily / Weekly / Monthly / Yearly

Remuneration if Total Package Value (e.g. Salary and/or benefits)

$25 - $30 /hour based on your prior experience