Marchwood Group - Awamoko Farm 2 | Waitaki Valley

About the Farm

Awamoko Farm 2 is a well-resourced 112ha dairy farm located in the picturesque Waitaki Valley near Georgetown. Owned and operated by Marchwood Group, the farm peak milks approximately 400 cows and supplies Fonterra. The property features a modern 40-aside herringbone dairy with ACRs and in-shed feeding, recently upgraded irrigation infrastructure including centre pivots and fixed-grid systems, and advanced Halter and Protrack technology. Supported by a team of three full-time staff, Awamoko Farm 2 is focused on achieving strong production, excellent animal welfare, and a positive team culture.

The Opportunity

Following the purchase of an adjoining property, Awamoko Farm has been redeveloped into two separate dairy farms, creating the need for a new Farm Manager at Awamoko Farm 2.

We are seeking a motivated and enthusiastic Farm Manager who is passionate about the dairy industry and ready to take the next step in their career. While previous farm management experience is preferred, we are also open to discussing the opportunity with capable and ambitious agricultural graduates or senior farm staff who have strong dairy farming experience and are ready to progress into management.

Marchwood Group operates four dairy farms within close proximity to one another, creating a strong team environment and opportunities to learn from, and collaborate with, other farm managers and staff. As part of a family-owned farming business, there are also genuine opportunities for future career growth and development.

The successful applicant will report directly to the Operations Manager and be supported by the farm owner and an experienced farm advisor who visits regularly. This support structure provides an excellent balance of responsibility, autonomy, and ongoing professional development.

Key Responsibilities

·       People leadership: Lead, support and develop a team of two staff, while maintaining a positive workplace culture.

·       Farm operations: Oversee all aspects of milking, calving, mating and seasonal farm activities.

·       Animal health & welfare: Maintain excellent animal health, welfare and herd performance.

·       Pasture & feed management: Manage grazing, feed allocation, supplements and feed budgets using Halter.

·       Milk quality: Ensure high standards of milk quality, shed hygiene and dairy compliance.

·       Health & safety: Promote a strong health and safety culture and ensure compliance with farm systems.

·       Environmental compliance: Manage effluent, nutrient and environmental responsibilities.

·       Farm assets: Maintain farm infrastructure, irrigation systems, machinery and equipment.

·       Reporting & performance: Monitor farm performance and provide regular reporting 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

·       Leads by example and treats people respectfully.

·       Organised, reliable and able to plan ahead.

·       Takes pride in animal care, farm presentation and team performance.

·       Communicates early and openly when issues arise.

·       Enjoys coaching staff and building capability.

What We Offer

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

·       Accommodation: Three-bedroom cottage provided.

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

·       Support from operations manager, owner & farm advisor.

How to Apply