Herd manager

Job Description

We are seeking a motivated and responsible person with a solid background in animal husbandry and milk production to join our team for our spring calving dairy operation in the beautiful South Waikato .Position Start from 1/06/2026

High quality milk production. You will assist with herd management and ensure that the farm runs smoothly while adhering to the industry's best practices and compliance with health & safety standards. We want someone who will take pride in their work and in the presentation of the farm.

Our farm runs a  Spring calving herd.  Our mainly Friesian herd is milked through a 50 bail rotary shed twice a day. The farm has a 220 hectare milking platform flat to rolling hills.

Experience on New Zealand dairy farms is essential at  least 1 year or more. This position will need full driving licence. 

There is well maintained accommodation available. We offer a friendly team with a positive work environment. Your hard work will be rewarded fairly with room for growth as your efforts are recognised.

Must be honest, drug free and reliable. 

Key Responsibilities:

  • Assist  in overseeing all aspects of dairy farm operations, including milking, feeding, tractor driving and herd health.
  • Supervise farm , providing guidance on daily tasks.
  • Be competent in the main areas of animal health, finding lame cows, identifying mastitis annd treatment, identifying sick or calving issues with cows, assisting for calving a cow, calf rearing skills. 
  • Ensure the smooth operation of milking systems and equipment and maintain cleanliness and hygiene standards.
  • Assist overseeing feed management.
  • Assist with maintaining accurate records of livestock, feed, and production data.
  • Support with irrigation plans and movements.

Qualifications and Experience:

  • Proven experience in dairy farming. 
  • Strong knowledge of dairy farming operations, including herd health, feeding, milking processes and farm maintenance.
  • Excellent communication, and interpersonal skills.
  • A proactive, problem-solving attitude with a keen eye for detail.
  • Strong organizational and record-keeping skills.
  • Knowledge of industry regulations related to animal welfare, health, and safety.
  • A valid driver’s license and own transport.  
    Minimum 30 guaranteed hours 
  • IMMIDATE START

     
ONLY APPLY IF YOU ARE IN NEE ZEALAND


Farm Size (ha)

220

Peak Herd Size (cows)

600

Typical On-farm Staff

3-4

Position Start Date

21/07/2026

Accommodation available

Yes

Hour Type

week

Average Hours Per week

30

Roster

Single rotation - 12 Days on / 2 days Off

Remuneration paid by

Hourly / Daily / Weekly / Monthly / Yearly