Location: Waitoa, Waikato
Reports to: Sharemilker, Manager, Assistant Manager
Start date: 1 June 2026
Advertised: 20 January 2026
We are seeking an experienced and motivated individual to join our team on our
750-cow, 200-hectare dairy farm in Waitoa, operating a 50-bale rotary shed. This is a hands-on in the day-to-day farm operation.
This role aligns with the DairyNZ 'Herd Manager' career pathway and offers the opportunity
to further develop your skills in farm systems, people leadership and business performance.
Purpose of the Role
Assisting with the daily farm activities and the implementation of farm policies and plans. You will take responsibility for key operational areas, complete tasks with minimal supervision, and supervise and train staff as required. You will actively look for opportunities to improve efficiency and farm performance.
Key Responsibilities
Milking: Dairy Operations
Implement efficient and hygienic milking practices
Maintain a high standard of dairy hygiene
Record animal health treatments and contribute to solving milk quality issues
Assist with supervising milking and routine plant maintenance
Animal Health; Welfare
Diagnose and treat common animal health issues
Competent in all aspects of calving and reproduction, including heat detection and
recording
Implement and monitor animal health, calving and mating plans
Feed; Pasture Management
Implement best practice pasture, crop and supplement management
Contribute to feed budgeting and seasonal planning
Ensure optimal feed quality and utilisation
Environmental Management
Understand and comply with environmental regulations
Assist with management of nutrients, effluent and water systems
Promote efficient and responsible resource use
People; Team
At times supervise and train junior staff
Support team culture aligned with farm values and goals
Communicate clearly and contribute to reporting
Machinery, Vehicles: Technology
Safely operate and maintain farm vehicles and machinery
Must be competent driving a telehandler and feeding out on the pad
Follow on-farm policies for machinery and technology use
Health, Safety & Wellbeing
Model a strong health, safety and wellbeing culture
Record accidents, identify hazards and biosecurity risks
Ensure compliance with on-farm H&S systems
Skills & Experience Required
Essential:
A NZ Certificate in Agriculture (or equivalent) Minimum Completed Level 4 or higher, OR a minimum of 3 years of relevant consecutive dairy farming experience.
Proven experience in milking, animal health, and feed management
Full NZ driver’s license (or equivalent)
Ability to pass a pre-employment drug and alcohol test and random testing
Clean criminal record
Desirable:
Experience on large-scale or System 5 dairy farms
Strong communication and problem-solving skills
Interest in progressing toward Farm Manager or ownership pathways
Hours, Pay & Roster
Guaranteed minimum: 30 hours per week
Typical hours: 40–50 hours per week depending on season
Roster: 8 days on / 3 days off, then 8 days on / 2 days off
Pay rate: NZD $25 – $35 per hour (depending on experience and qualifications)
Accommodation
You will be required to live on-farm due to the operational requirements of the role.
A 4bedroom house is provided as part of the employment package.
Additional Conditions
No pets on farm
No smoking or vaping on farm
Must comply with farm health & safety, animal welfare, and environmental policies
How to Apply
Please apply via FarmSource with your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your experience and
suitability for the role.
Successful applicants will be contacted via email.
This Position may be available sooner to appropriate candidates as housing is available now.