Sheep Dairy Assistant

Job Description

About us: Culverden Farm is a family-run hill-country farming operation with a large scale Sheep Dairy and complimentary drystock cattle. We're based in Waerenga, North Waikato (10 min from Te Kauwhata). Sheep Dairy is a dynamic, young industry with a strong outlook, and this is your opportunity to work alongside an innovative, performance-oriented team.

This role centres around milking: twice per day in our 36 a-side herringbone shed with automatic cup removers.

Spring focus: includes lambing with a split rearing system: some naturally on ewe, some artificially in our purpose built rearing shed on auto-feeders.

Job tasks: include mustering, milking, shed & equipment hygeine, training and feeding lambs, vaccinating, docking, crutching, foot care.

Team approach: senior staff lead the crew to cover all positions, support each other, and maintain strong attention to details and outcomes.

Fixed-term: August to April

Roster: 6 days on/2 days off

Hours: milking starts at 6am and 2pm

Pay: hourly base rate + bonus at end of season

Accommodation: shared accommodation may be available in the right circumstances

What you will bring to the team:

  • Farm experience: an asset, but not essential as specific training and skill development will be provided.
  • Attitude: ready to jump in, learn fast, and make a positive difference from day 1 on the job.
  • Fitness: this is a physical role requiring good strength, agility, and stamina.
  • Character: reliable, honest, enthusiastic, with a genuine care for animal welfare and an eye for detail.
  • Right to Work: You must be currently located in New Zealand with a valid, open work visa, residency or citizenship. We are unable to assist with visa sponsorship.

To Apply: Get in touch with a brief introduction about yourself and why this role is a good fit for you.

Farm Size (ha)

500

Peak Herd Size (cows)

1800

Typical On-farm Staff

4

Position Start Date

03/08/2026

Hour Type

negotiable

Average Hours Per week

40

Roster

Single rotation - 6 Days on / 2 days Off

Remuneration paid by

Hourly / Daily / Weekly / Monthly / Yearly