Temporary Dairy Farm Assistant
Location: Darfield,
Fixed-Term (21 July 2026 to - end of September / Mid-October 2026)
Roster: 5 days on, 2 days off – Friday Saturdays off
About the Role We are seeking a reliable, motivated, and hardworking Temporary Dairy Farm Assistant to join our team for the busy calving period.
Our 1150-cow property is located just outside of Darfield.
This is an efficient, high-performing farm utilizing modern infrastructure. You will work alongside an experienced, supportive team of 5 to maintain high standards of animal welfare and milk quality during this critical seasonal period.
Key Responsibilities Milking: Assist with efficient milking in our modern 60-bail rotary shed equipped with an ACRs In-shed Feeding, Protrack drafting system.
Feeding: Manage and monitor the automated in-shed feeding system during milking routines.
Animal Health: Identify mastitis or lameness, draft stock using Protrack, and assist with treatments.
Stock Management: Safely shift breaks, set up break fences, and move cows to and from the shed.
Calf Rearing Calf Rearing: Manage daily calf feeding in the absence of the head calf rearer. tube-feeding colostrum to newborns, pens cleaning, and bedding management.
Farm Maintenance: General farm duties including shed washdowns, basic fence repairs, and clean-up.
Skills and Experience: Previous dairy experience is great but not essential.
Vehicles: Ability to safely operate farm vehicles (two-wheelers, quads,). A valid driver's licence is required.
Attributes: Physically fit, punctual, reliable, and able to work well in an efficient team environment.
Compliance: Strong commitment to health and safety, animal welfare, and clean hygiene.
What’s on Offer Predictable Hours: A consistent 5 on, 2 off roster providing excellent work-life balance and scheduled days off.
Competitive Wages: Paid Fortnightly, with rates reflecting your experience level.
Accommodation: Tidy, farm accommodation options are available; single living or couple living can be arranged depending on your situation.
Location: Just minutes from Darfield for local amenities, and an easy drive to Christchurch or the mountains on your days off.
Applicants must have a valid New Zealand work visa or citizenship, a clean driver's licence.
To Apply Please apply online with an updated CV and at least two contactable work references, we will be screening applicants as CVs are submitted and will be in contact asap if you met the requirements