Dairy Farm Worker
Location: Otorohanga, Waikato
We are 50/50 sharemilking with 20 years in the industry. We run a low input, grass based, system 2 farm of 185ha rolling/steep land just east of Otorohanga. 36aside herringbone shed with in shed feeding, auto drafting and auto teat spray. We have broken the farm production record twice since we started here and have a good animal health record. We don't have a feed pad, so all maize/grass silage is fed out in the paddock, and this results in some technical driving and careful planning of your path with the tractor.
We put a third of the cows on once-a-day milking from early Sept onwards to manage skinny cows before mating in oct. We put the main herd on once-a-day milking around late February depending on grass growth rates and cow body condition score. Every season is partially viewed as preparation for the next season.
Our biggest focus is getting cows in calf early without relying on vet intervention. This is done by careful pasture management, feed budgeting and good animal husbandry to maximize culling options at the end of each season and promote prime cows for the future herd.
We primarily use 2 wheelers for daily tasks but also have several buggy/quad trucks for required tasks such as spraying weeds, fencing, dusting minerals, etc plus 2 tractors.
We have a large area that can be spread with effluent so managing the irrigators is key to optimizing the nutrients and minimizing drought damage or runoff depending on the time of year.
We grow 12ha maize on farm and buy in 5ha. We also grow approx 9ha of Chicory crop depending on the season.
About the Role:
We are seeking a motivated Farm Worker to join our team. The successful applicant will assist in the
day-to-day operations of our dairy farm, ensuring the welfare, productivity, and health of our herd and
assist in smooth running of milking and farm maintenance operations.
Key Responsibilities:
- Milking cows, maintaining milking machinery at the farm on daily basis.
- Operate and maintain tractors, farm machinery, and irrigation systems.
- Cleaning, maintaining, and repairing milking sheds, plant, and farm buildings.
- Recording herd data and following farm management plans and instructions.
- Recording herd data and following farm management plans and instructions.
- Assisting with general farm duties such as fencing, irrigation, and pasture management.
- Follow heath and safety protocols.
Skills and Experience Required:
- While no formal qualification or prior experience is required, on-the-job training will be
provided. However, previous experience working on a farm or in a similar hands-on
environment would be an advantage.
- Must be physically fit, dependable, and willing to work early mornings, weekends, and public
holidays when rostered.
- A valid driver’s licence is essential; experience operating tractors or other farm machinery is
preferred.
- Able to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
- Honest, reliable, and genuinely motivated