Contract Milker, Ōpunakē, South Taranaki

Armstrong Farms is seeking an experienced and motivated Contract Milker to manage our well-established, family-owned 650-cow dairy farm near Ōpunakē, Taranaki.

We operate two dairy farms and a drystock support block, with a focus on low-cost, efficient farming systems, strong farm performance and well-maintained properties.

This is an opportunity for a capable Contract Milker to take responsibility for the day-to-day running of a productive dairy farm, supported by an experienced Operations Manager and wider farming team.

The Farm:

The 230ha dairy farm milks a high index kiwi-cross herd through a centrally located 40-bail rotary cowshed with a Waikato milking plant.

The farm operates a low-cost, pasture-based System 2–3, with a strong focus on pasture utilisation, cost control and sustainable production.

The farm is well-equipped with labour-saving technology, including:

• Allflex SenseHub collars and automatic drafting gate
• Automatic cup removers & teat spray system
• Automatic backing gates and plant wash system
• In-shed feeding facilities

The farm has an upgraded effluent system, with travelling irrigator coverage over approximately 25% of the property.

Approximately 170 replacement calves are reared annually, with replacements grazed off-farm following weaning.

Target production for 2027/28 is 241,500 kgMS (372 kgMS/cow; 1,050 kgMS/ha).

Three houses are available on the property: two 3-bedroom houses and one 2-bedroom house.

Management and Support

An Operations Manager oversees both dairy farms and the drystock support block, working closely with the Contract Milker on farm planning, performance and key input decisions. Farm advisors also provide regular support throughout the season.

A dedicated drystock and maintenance team manages replacement stock on the support block, fertiliser spreading and maintenance support where required.

We value open communication, teamwork and a proactive approach to farm management.

What We Are Looking For

We are seeking applicants who can demonstrate:

• Proven experience successfully managing a dairy farming operation and leading a team
• Strong pasture management skills and a focus on farm productivity
• High standards of animal health, welfare and stock management
• A commitment to health, safety and environmental management
• Excellent organisational skills, including planning, prioritising and managing daily operations
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build positive working relationships
• Sound financial and business management skills
• Pride in maintaining a tidy, well-presented and efficiently run farm
• A willingness to learn, adapt and work collaboratively to achieve strong results

We are looking to build a positive, long-term working relationship with a Contract Milker who shares our commitment to efficient farming, strong performance and looking after our people and properties.

Please email your CV to Jonny Wright, [email protected], together with details of two referees, including your current employer.

We welcome applications from experienced Contract Milkers and capable dairy farmers looking to take the next step in their careers.