Kinloch Dairy offers a unique growth opportunity for an enthusiastic and highly motivated contract milker, starting on the 1 June 2027. The successful applicant would have ambitions of progressing to an equity shareholder in the operating company in their second season. This position has become available as our current equity managers are transitioning to a larger farm within our group.
· Kinloch Dairy is located five minutes north of Culverden, North Canterbury.
· Milks 410 cows is spray-irrigated and operates a moderate-supplement system.
· Kinloch is 120 hectares effective, with pivot irrigation and a 30-a-side herringbone shed.
· Approximately 30% of the mixed-age cows are wintered on fodder beet on the milking platform.
· Production for 2026 was 199,000 ms.
· Accommodation includes a three-bedroom home and a motel unit suitable for a single person or young couple.
· There is also potential for further accommodation on a neighboring farm.
This is a hands-on role for someone with relevant practical farming experience, demonstrated capability and the potential to grow. Extensive experience is less important than sound foundations, a willingness to learn and the personal qualities needed to succeed. The successful applicant will bring:
- Careful pasture allocation and pasture management to feed stock well.
- Sole charge of the dairy shed and oversight of milking.
- Sound stockmanship and a strong commitment to animal welfare.
- Accurate and consistent record keeping.
- Basic financial literacy and an understanding of farm business fundamentals. The ambition and ability to build on this foundation and excel with ongoing training and support.
- Recruitment, organization and supervision of one or two staff.
- Effective time management.
- Excellent verbal and written communication, with the ability to work well in a team, listen carefully and respond openly to feedback.
- A practical, can-do approach, with the conscientiousness to do tasks well and the persistence to see them through to completion.
- Property maintenance and pride in the farm
Ongoing training and support will be provided where required.
A unique pathway to business ownership
This role is intended as a stepping stone from contract milking to equity participation in the operating company in the second season. It is an opportunity for someone who wants to build a long-term future in dairying and grow alongside the business. The proposed equity stake, investment requirements and terms of entry will be discussed with the successful applicant and are subject to mutual agreement.
To apply, send your curriculum vitae, two references and a cover letter to James McCone at [email protected]. Use your cover letter to outline your relevant experience and how you meet the skills and personal qualities described above. Please also explain why this role appeals to you.
Referees will be contacted prior to an interview. Applicants must be eligible to work in New Zealand, provide evidence of any relevant work visa, and be in New Zealand and available for an interview.
Applications close on 4 December 2026. Interviews are planned for 10–11 December 2026, with follow-ups on 18–19 December 2026.