Herd Manager

$70,000 - $80,000 yearly

Job Description

Herd Manager
Te Awa Dairy Farm

Te Pirita, Canterbury
2026/2027 Season

We are looking for an experienced and motivated Herd Manager to join our team for this dairy season.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to take the next step in their dairy farming career while working within a supportive and positive team environment.

About the Farm

  • 850 cows across 226 hectares of flat land 
  • 60 Bale Rotary Shed 
  • Pivot and K Line Irrigation 
  • Strong focus on profitability, teamwork, and maintaining a positive workplace culture

About the Role

You will work closely with the Farm Manager and be responsible for supporting the day-to-day operation of the dairy farm, including:

  • Assisting daily milking operations and maintaining high milk quality standards
  • Monitoring animal health and administering treatments as required
  • Assisting with pasture and feed management
  • Identifying and recording animals requiring attention
  • Supporting mating and calving activities
  • Assisting with staff training and supervision
  • Operating farm vehicles, machinery, and motorbikes safely
  • Maintaining accurate farm records
  • Contributing positively to the team culture and farm performance

Who We're Looking For

We are looking for someone who:

  • Has solid 2 years of NZ dairy farming experience
  • Has strong animal health and stock management skills
  • Can work independently and take responsibility for daily tasks
  • Has excellent communication and teamwork skills
  • Takes pride in maintaining high farm standards
  • Demonstrates a strong commitment to workplace health and safety
  • Is reliable, trustworthy, and hardworking
  • Holds a current driver's licence
  • Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug test and police check

Remuneration & Hours

  • Permanent, full-time position
  • Guaranteed minimum of 40 hours per week
  • Maximum of 50 hours per week
  • Salary package from NZD $70,000.00 - $80,000.00 per annum depending on experience

Accommodation

  • Modern 2 Bedroom Exclusive House
  • Rent: $ 350.00 per fortnight 

Additional Requirements

  • Applicants must have the legal right to work in New Zealand or be eligible to obtain one
  • Applicants must currently be in New Zealand and available for interview

Apply Now

To apply please click the link below.

https://craigmore.bamboohr.com/careers/71

This farm is owned and operated by Craigmore Sustainables. 

Craigmore Sustainables is a purpose-led business operating farms, orchards and forests across New Zealand. Every day, our people work together to produce premium food and fibre while building sustainable businesses for the long term. We invest in great people, practical innovation and strong partnerships, and take pride in creating value by caring for the land, supporting rural communities and continually improving the way we work. Together, we're helping shape the future of New Zealand's primary industries.

 

Farm Size (ha)

226

Peak Herd Size (cows)

850

Typical On-farm Staff

4

Position Start Date

04/10/2026

Accommodation available

Yes

Hour Type

negotiable

Average Hours Per week

50

Roster

By negotiation

Remuneration paid by

By Negotiation