Ngāi Tahu Farming is offering an exciting opportunity for a Dairy Farm Assistant Job in New Zealand to join the team at Hamuā Farm, located at Te Whenua Hou – Hamua, within the Eyrewell Forest, New Zealand. This is a permanent, full-time position reporting to the Dairy Farm Manager. The role is ideal for someone with dairy farming experience who is eager to work in an innovative and sustainability-focused environment while progressing their career in the New Zealand dairy industry.
About the Company
Ngāi Tahu Farming (NTF) operates as part of Hamuā Ngāi Tahu Tourism and manages over 100,000 hectares of farming and forestry assets across Te Wai Pounamu. The organisation is committed to producing sustainable products that align with Ngāi Tahu values and tikanga, delivering economic, social, environmental, and cultural outcomes for Ngāi Tahu Whānui.
Hamuā Farm is part of a unique seven-year research project comparing conventional farming systems with regenerative practices. The farm uses modern, well-maintained facilities and industry-leading technologies, including automated milking systems, Halter technology, extensive VRI irrigation, and internal management of wintering, supplement production, and young stock rearing. Safety, innovation, and sustainability are central to all operations.
Job Responsibilities
As a Dairy Farm Assistant, your responsibilities will include:
- Assisting with the milking of approximately 1,050 spring-calved cows
- Operating a 64-bale automated rotary milking system with ACRs and Protrack
- Supporting daily dairy farm operations under the guidance of the Farm Manager
- Monitoring and recording livestock performance and pasture data
- Assisting with animal health and welfare tasks
- Using farm machinery and equipment safely and effectively
- Supporting pasture management and irrigation operations
- Contributing to wintering, supplement production, and young stock rearing
- Following health, safety, and biosecurity procedures
- Working collaboratively within a close-knit farm team
Requirements
To be considered for this role, candidates must:
- Have at least one year of farm experience, ideally in dairy farming
- Hold a current New Zealand Driver’s Licence
- Be eligible to work in New Zealand
- Have basic experience with farm machinery and equipment
- Demonstrate a strong work ethic and willingness to learn
- Be willing to engage with Ngāi Tahu values and tikanga
- Be able to complete pre-employment checks, including drug and alcohol testing and a full medical assessment
Skills
- Practical dairy farming skills
- Basic machinery and equipment operation
- Ability to monitor and record farm data accurately
- Strong teamwork and communication skills
- Time management and reliability
- Adaptability and willingness to learn new systems and technologies
- Commitment to safety and animal welfare
Benefits
- Permanent, full-time employment
- Balanced 5-on, 2-off roster outside of calving
- Modern on-farm accommodation
- Health and life insurance included
- Opportunity to work in an innovative and research-driven farming environment
- Exposure to advanced farming technologies and regenerative practices
- Supportive team environment with career development opportunities
- Chance to contribute to sustainable land management for future generations
