Marchwood Group - Brookhaven Farm | Waitaki Valley

About the Farm

Brookhaven Farm is a high-performing 250ha self-contained dairy operation located in the heart of the Waitaki Valley near Georgetown. Owned and operated by Marchwood Group, the property milks approximately 650 cows at peak and supplies Fonterra. The self-contained unit runs approx. 220 R1 & R2 replacements. The farm is equipped with a herringbone dairy featuring ACRs and in-shed feeding, with the farm undergoing extensive irrigation development to centre-pivot and fixed-grid systems. Utilising Halter and Protrack technology, the farm is focused on efficient management, strong production and excellent animal welfare. Working in a team of four full-time staff, the successful applicant will help drive performance towards a target of 440kg MS/cow/year while contributing to a positive team environment.

The Opportunity

An exciting opportunity has become available for a Farm Manager to join the Marchwood Group team at Brookhaven Farm, following internal career progression within the business.

We are looking for an enthusiastic and capable individual who is passionate about dairy farming and motivated to achieve strong results. Previous farm management experience is desirable; however, we would also like to hear from experienced senior farm staff or agricultural graduates who have developed strong practical dairy farming skills and are ready to step into a leadership role.

Marchwood Group operates four dairy farms within the local area, providing the benefits of a wider team environment, shared knowledge, and ongoing support. As a family-owned farming business, we are committed to developing our people and creating opportunities for long-term career progression.

Reporting directly to the Operations Manager, the successful applicant will receive regular support and guidance from the farm owner and experienced farm advisor, while enjoying a high level of responsibility and autonomy in the day-to-day management of the farm.

Key Responsibilities

·       Team leadership: Lead and mentor a team of three staff, fostering a positive, productive and safety-focused work environment.

·       Farm management: Coordinate day-to-day dairy operations, including milking, calving, mating and seasonal programmes.

·       Herd performance: Maintain high standards of animal health, welfare and production.

·       Feed & grazing: Manage pasture, supplements, feed budgets and grazing plans through Halter technology.

·       Milk quality: Deliver excellent milk quality outcomes and maintain dairy hygiene and compliance standards.

·       Health & safety: Champion safe work practices and ensure farm health and safety requirements are met.

·       Environmental stewardship: Oversee effluent management, nutrient use and environmental compliance obligations.

·       Infrastructure & equipment: Ensure farm infrastructure, irrigation systems and equipment are maintained to a high standard.

·       Performance & reporting: Track key farm metrics and provide regular updates to the Operations Manager and Farm Advisor.

About You

Skills and Experience

·       5+ years of New Zealand dairy farming experience.

·       Previous staff leadership or farm management experience.

·       Strong pasture, feed, animal health and milk-quality management skills.

·       Good planning, communication, record-keeping and problem-solving skills.

·       Practical understanding of farm health and safety and environmental compliance.

·       Full driver's license.

·       Need to be currently in NZ (Resident or NZ Work Visa). Overseas applications will not be considered

·       Work references required

·       Experience with Halter, MINDA, Pro-Trak & irrigation systems preferred but can be learned

Personal Attributes

·       Positive leader who leads by example and fosters strong team relationships.

·       Highly organised with strong planning and time management skills.

·       Takes ownership and pride in farm performance, animal welfare and presentation.

·       Communicates clearly and works collaboratively with staff and management.

·       Passionate about mentoring, coaching and supporting the growth of others.

What We Offer

·       Competitive remuneration: This will be experienced based and negotiable for the right person.

·       Accommodation: Four-bedroom home available.

·       Roster and leave: 6 on – 2 off roster. Four-weeks annual leave.

·       Support from operations manager, owner & farm advisor.

How to Apply