Contract Manager - 770 cows - South Taranaki

Job Description

Contract Manager – 770 cows, South Taranaki – 2027/28

https://thegreeneco.framer.website/careers

About us

We are a progressive, high-performing farming team who value our people, our land, our animals and our industry. We lead with integrity and honesty, take a team approach to everything we do, and are committed to quality housing and well-maintained infrastructure.

We back our people with practical support, so they can do their best work. We believe in treating people the way we'd like to be treated, and we're proud of our proven record of long term staff retention. You will work closely with our Farm Consultant, with regular catch-ups, clear goals and open, honest communication.

We provide additional support, and we value our manager's input into the seasonal plan and the decisions that shape the farm.

We keep investing in the farm, most recently in a new composting barn, Cow Manager tags, an automated calf feeding system and solar power for the shed, because better systems mean healthier animals, a better working environment and a more sustainable business.

The opportunity

We’re looking for a proactive, progressive Contract Manager to run our 770 cow farm from the start of the 2027/28 season.

The farm

• 250 ha effective

• 770 cows, producing 340,000 kgMS

• 60 bail rotary

• New 400 cow composting barn, keeping cows dry and comfortable, and preserving pasture through Taranaki winters

• New automated ad-lib calf feeding system for 200 calves

• Cow Manager animal health and heat detection technology

• System 3 - approx. 1T/cow predominantly fed through in-shed meal system

• 90 kW solar power for the shed, with 100kwH battery storage

• Fonterra supplier

The role

Reporting to our Farm Consultant, you’ll run the day-to-day operation to meet the seasonal plan and the agreed budget, including:

• Pasture measurement, feed planning and managing grazing residuals

• Leading, training and rostering a team of 3

• Animal health and welfare, mating and calving, and calf rearing using the new system

• Producing top-quality, grade-free milk

• On-farm maintenance

• Keeping herd, NAIT and staff records up to date

• Effluent and environmental compliance, and health and safety on farm

About you

• Excellent pasture management skills

• Proactive approach to management and systems

• Highly skilled in animal health and husbandry

• A confident people leader who builds and keeps a good team

• Keen to make the most of modern infrastructure and technology

• At least 3 years experience at contract milking or management - large herd experience is beneficial.

What we offer

• Quality housing: 3 x 3 bedroom houses and a seasonal cabin across the team

• Well-maintained infrastructure and modern systems

• Supportive owners and a Farm Consultant who understands the job

• A great location: 10 km to Kaponga, 15 km to Opunake, 27 km to Stratford, 35 km to Hawera, and 5 km to Auroa Primary School

To apply, send your CV and references to [email protected], or call Campbell on 027 455 3303.

Applications close November 10th 2026. 

Farm Size (ha)

250ha

Peak Herd Size (cows)

770 cows

Typical On-farm Staff

4 + calf rearer

Position Start Date

01/06/2027

Accommodation available

3 x 3 bedroom houses, 1 x small cabin

Hour Type

negotiable

Average Hours Per week

TBC

Roster

By negotiation

Remuneration paid by

Per KgMS