Farm Manager – Bull Finishing Operation
Portland, Northland (15 minutes south of Whangārei)
Lead a high-performing, 650 ha effective bull finishing business wintering c. 1,800 bulls with a strong team, modern technology and clear production targets.
The Farm
- 650 ha effective grazing platform across three operational units
- c. 1,800 bulls wintered annually; target 400 kg CWT/ha
- Team: Farm Manager, Assistant Manager, Junior Stockperson
- c. 33% of farm on Halter (weaner to yearling); balance on cell grazing
- Well-maintained infrastructure and management systems
The Role
You will lead day-to-day operations, drive pasture performance, manage livestock health and welfare, and develop staff while maintaining high standards across the business.
Key responsibilities
Pasture & feed management
- Feed budgeting and supply vs demand planning proven experience (min 2 years)
- Average pasture cover monitoring and grazing round management (min 2 years)
- Kikuyu and seasonal feed planning
Livestock management
- Proactive stock observation and health planning
- Treatment, monitoring and accurate record keeping
- Weighing and performance tracking
- Effective use of Halter data to inform decisions
- Bull management experience highly regarded
People leadership
- Minimum 1 year in a management role (or 2 years as assistant farm manager)
- Supervise, coach and support team members
- Strong communication, high energy and maturity
- Build and maintain a positive team culture
About You
- Honest, reliable and self-motivated
- Passionate about farming and continuous improvement
- Comfortable working independently while leading a team
Remuneration & Accommodation
- 3-bedroom, Healthy Homes-compliant cottage with heat pump
- Competitive remuneration package; salary c. $100,000 (depending on skills and experience)
- Roster: 5 on / 2 off
Additional Requirements
- Two working dogs preferred (one heading, one huntaway)
Start Date
Mid-November 2026, or earlier by agreement.
How to Apply
Please submit:
- A current CV
- A covering letter outlining your relevant experience and explaining why you are a strong fit for this role
- The names and contact phone numbers of two recent referees who can attest to your farming experience
Applications should be emailed to [email protected].
Please note:
- Referees will be contacted prior to the shortlisting process.
- Due to the volume of applications, only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.
- Applicants must hold New Zealand residency or a valid New Zealand work permit. As we are not an accredited employer, we are unable to support international work visa applications.
c. 1,800 Bulls
Total Package Value (e.g. Salary and/or benefits)
c. $100,000 depending on skills and experience