Herd Manager - Ashburton

Job Description

Are you a skilled Herd Manager ready to take charge in a large-scale, high-performing operation?

We are seeking a motivated and trustworthy Herd Manager to join our team in Ashburton. We milk 1500 cows through a modern 80-bail rotary shed. This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys using technology and wants to be part of a progressive farming environment.

IMPORTANT: We are NOT accepting applications from overseas. You must currently reside in New Zealand and hold a valid work visa to apply.

About the Farm

Located in the heart of Ashburton, our operation focuses on efficiency and animal welfare.

  • Herd Size: 1500 cows.

  • Shed: 80-bail rotary.

  • Irrigation: 80% Center Pivots, with the balance covered by Rotorainers, K-lines, and Sprinklers.

The Role

You will be a key part of our leadership structure and day-to-day management of the herd and pasture. We are looking for someone with proven experience in:

  • Pasture Management: allocating feed and managing residuals efficiently.

  • Animal Health: Proactive herd health management.

  • Lameness: Ability to identify and treat lame cows confidently.

  • Technology: Experience using wearable cow technology (collars/tags) to monitor health and mating.

  • Irrigation: Managing and shifting pivots, Rotorainers, and K-lines.

About You

We are looking for a good sort who can have a laugh but knows when to buckle down and get the work done.

  • Team Player: Excellent communication skills are a must. You need to work well with the wider team but also be self-motivated enough to work alone when required.

  • Reliable: You must be trustworthy and honest.

  • Attitude: A good sense of humor is essential to fit in with our culture!

  • Compliance: You must be able to pass a pre-employment drug test, have a valid NZ driver license and valid work visa.

  • Experience with two wheeler motorcycles. No quadbikes on farm.

Requirements

IMPORTANT: We are NOT accepting applications from overseas. You must currently reside in New Zealand and hold a valid work visa to apply.

What We Offer

  • Competitive remuneration package based on experience.

  • 6 on / 2 off roster

  • 2 bedroom house

  • A supportive work environment with modern facilities.

Farm Size (ha)

408

Peak Herd Size (cows)

1500

Typical On-farm Staff

6

Position Start Date

31/07/2026

Accommodation available

2 bedroom

Hour Type

negotiable

Average Hours Per week

100

Roster

Single rotation - 6 Days on / 2 days Off

Remuneration paid by

By Negotiation