2IC / Assistant Manager (Opunake)

Job Description

Assistant Manager – Dairy Farm

Immediate start 

We are seeking an experienced Assistant Manager to join our dairy farming team for the 2026/27 season. This position would suit someone with experience or wanting to gain experience working with a large herd across two joining farms. 

About the Role
You will be working on a well-run farm milking 600 cows, with responsibilities including:

    • Assist with and take responsibility for daily milking operations

    • Support pasture management, including feed allocation and stock movements

    • Help manage animal health and welfare, including identifying issues and carrying out treatments

    • Maintain high standards of cowshed and yard hygiene

    • Assist with staff supervision, training, and support

    • Operate tractors and farm machinery safely and efficiently

    • Support calf rearing operations (seasonal)

    • Assist with farm maintenance and upkeep of buildings and equipment

    • Follow and help enforce health and safety policies

    • Communicate effectively with the Farm Manager and team

    • Step up to run the farm in the manager’s absence when required

Relief milking and calf rearing opportunities are available for a partner, if desired. Please indicate in your CV if you have a partner available for this. 

About the Farm

  • Located 5 minutes south of Opunake, school bus routes at the gate.

  • Supportive team environment

  • Currently using Halter to monitor animal health & mating and virtual fencing

  • System 4 farm - a great place to learn about feeding cows well

Accommodation & Salary

  • Competitive salary package which will be negotiated depending on experience

  • Includes rent of a tidy 3-bedroom home with wood fire and garaging. Healthy home standards. 

Skills & Experience Required

  • Minimum 2 years’ experience in New Zealand dairy farming

  • Confident tractor driving skills (essential)

  • Ability to work well as part of a team

  • Reliable, motivated, and proactive

Additional Requirements

  • Pre-employment and random on-farm drug testing applies

  • Applicants must:

    • Currently live in New Zealand

    • Hold a valid visa with work rights

    • Note: We are not accredited employers

How to Apply
Please attach your CV and provide a minimum of two employment referees

Farm Size (ha)

250

Peak Herd Size (cows)

600

Typical On-farm Staff

3.5

Position Start Date

10/08/2026

Accommodation available

3 bedroom house available, with fireplace. Some wood provided.

Hour Type

week

Average Hours Per week

40 - 50 depending on season

Roster

Single rotation - 11 Days on / 3 days Off

Remuneration paid by

Total Package Value (e.g. Salary and/or benefits)

Remuneration if Total Package Value (e.g. Salary and/or benefits)

To be negotiated depending on experience