Job Description

Kotare Pastoral Ltd is pleased to offer an exciting opportunity for an experienced assistant Herd Manager  to join our team at Wicklow Farm, a well-established dairy support operation located on Gadsby Road, just outside Te Kuiti. An immediate start is available; however, we are committed to selecting the right candidate and are open to a later start date, including from 1 June.

Wicklow Farm is a 360-hectare effective dairy platform, milking 1,000 cows through a modern and well-equipped 50-bale rotary shed including automatic cup removers and teat sprayer. The farm operates a hybrid milking system, utilizing both twice-a-day (TAD) and once-a-day (OAD) milking, with more than half the season fully on OAD. We run a predominantly pasture-based system, supported by the strategic use of supplements. The majority of cows are wintered off-farm as well as all the young stock post-weaning.

The Role

You will work closely alongside an experienced, inclusive Farm Manager who values teamwork, high standards, and professional development. This is an ideal opportunity for someone looking to take the next step in their dairying career, developing a comprehensive skill-set in a pasture based system. 

About You

The successful applicant will be passionate about dairy farming, motivated to progress their career, and demonstrate a positive, can-do attitude. You will:

  • Enjoy farming, and being part of a team that values good standard
  • be able to operate machinery safely and effectively
  • Excellent attention to detail
  • two or more years dairying experience

What We Offer

Kotare Pastoral Ltd is a progressive business with multiple farming operations and a strong track record of developing and advancing its people. We are committed to your growth and provide ongoing support and training.

Our package includes:

  • A competitive remuneration package
  • A three-bedroom house with wood burner and heat pump
  • A well-balanced and sustainable work roster
  • Support from a committed and accessible administration team
  • On-farm and off-farm training, including industry discussion groups and workshops

Kotare Pastoral Ltd operates in a drug-free workplace. Employment is conditional upon passing a pre-employment drug test. Applicants must currently be in New Zealand to be considered.

To apply please send your current CV, including at least two references, to:
[email protected]

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Farm Size (ha)

360ha

Peak Herd Size (cows)

1000

Typical On-farm Staff

5

Position Start Date

01/12/2026

Accommodation available

three-bedroom house with wood burner and heat pump

Hour Type

week

Average Hours Per week

52

Roster

Single rotation - 11 Days on / 3 days Off

Remuneration paid by

By Negotiation