Farm Assistant

What we are looking for

We are currently recruiting a Farm Assistant starting early October. We are looking for an enthusiastic, motivated and driven person to help us successfully run the day to day operations of the farm. You will work within a team of 6 people including hands on Contact Milkers. 

We place a strong emphasis on animal health, pasture management, and overall farm presentation. Our system is built around well-fed, healthy cows, with a focus on maximising grass utilisation and strategically supplementing when required.

About the farm

• Based in Rakaia, just 5 minutes from Rakaia town. 25 minutes from Ashburton and 45 minutes from Christchurch.
• 1250 cows on a 306ha effective dairy platform. Fully self-contained with a neighbouring support block.
• 60 bail rotary with in shed feeding, ACRs, auto drafting, and protrack.
• Good reliable irrigation with 6 pivots, fixed grid, 2 rotorainers & some sprinklers on the corners.
• Spring calving, grass based system.
• Kale & fodder beet fed at the support block during the winter.
• 300 heifers reared each year, young stock work involved throughout the season.
• Well maintained farm, good layout with good infrastructure including an underpass.

Key responsibilities 

• Usual milking duties.
• Setting up break fences.
• Irrigation management (training will be provided if needed).
• Youngstock management.
• Support calf rearing operations.
• Weed control.
• Tractor work.
• Assist with farm maintenance and upkeep.

Skills & experience required

Ideally we are looking for someone with a minimum of 1 year New Zealand dairy farming experience. However we may consider applicants with limited experience but with the right attitude.

What we offer

• Competitive hourly rate of pay.
• On the job training and exposure to the running of a large scale dairy farm.
• Weekly team meetings.
• On farm accommodation.
• Good work/life balance with a 5 & 2 roster year round.
• Happy and positive work environment.
• Supportive working environment with opportunities to grow your skills.

Applicants must currently live in New Zealand or hold a valid visa that allows you to work. We are not accredited employers.

To apply please send a cover letter and your current CV with 2 contactable references.