Ngāi Tahu Farming is seeking a Dairy Farm Assistant Job in New Zealand (Kaiāwhina Pamu Miraka) to join its dairy team at Te Whenua Hou – Hamua. This is a permanent, full-time role supporting daily dairy farm operations. If you have dairy farm experience, a strong work ethic, and a genuine interest in sustainable farming and animal welfare, this role offers long-term career growth within a values-led organisation.
About The Company
Ngāi Tahu Farming (NTF) manages more than 100,000 hectares of farming and forestry assets across Te Wai Pounamu (South Island). The organisation focuses on producing sustainable products while delivering strong economic, environmental, social, and cultural outcomes for Ngāi Tahu Whānui. NTF operates dairy, beef, grazing, high-country stations, and forestry businesses, guided by innovation, best-practice systems, and tikanga Māori values.
Job Summary
As a Dairy Farm Assistant, you will support the Dairy Farm Manager in daily farm operations. The role involves hands-on work with livestock, pasture management, farm systems, and equipment. You will play an important role in maintaining high standards of animal welfare, workplace safety, and farm performance. This is a physically demanding role suited to someone comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist with daily dairy farm operations
- Support animal health, welfare, and handling procedures
- Operate and assist with basic farm machinery and equipment
- Assist with pasture and feed management
- Monitor and record livestock and pasture performance data
- Follow health, safety, and biosecurity procedures
- Support calving and seasonal farm activities
- Maintain clean and well-organised farm facilities
- Work closely with the Dairy Farm Manager and farm team
Required Skills and Experience
- Minimum 1 year of farm experience, preferably in dairy
- Basic experience using farm machinery and equipment
- Current New Zealand Driver’s Licence
- Eligible to work in New Zealand
- Strong work ethic and willingness to learn
- Ability to engage with Ngāi Tahu values and tikanga
- Comfortable performing physical work, including lifting and outdoor tasks
- Ability to safely handle manual labour requirements
Farm Operations Overview
- 320 hectares effective area
- Fully irrigated by pivot systems
- Peak milking of 1,030 cows
- Halter Farm system
- Winter runoff located 10 minutes away
- 64-bail fully automated rotary cowshed
- Equipped with ECRs, in-bail teat spraying, and auto drafting
- Modern, well-maintained facilities and equipment
Work Schedule
- Permanent, full-time employment
- 5 days on, 2 days off roster outside of calving
- Based at Te Whenua Hou – Hamua, New Zealand
Benefits and What’s on Offer
- Competitive remuneration package
- Health and life insurance included
- Work within an experienced and supportive team
- Use of best-practice and modern farm technologies
- Strong learning and career progression opportunities
- Variety of daily tasks and responsibilities
- Close-knit community environment
- Monthly staff BBQs and team events
