Herd Manager Pahi

Type: Full-time, Permanent

Location: Christchurch

Description

Kia hiwa rā!

Looking for an opportunity to make a significant impact on sustainable farming practices while working closely with a passionate team? Look no further!

We're in search of a dedicated Herd Manager to join our dairy farming team at Ngai Tahu Farming.

As the Herd Manager, I lead and support our farm team alongside the Assistant Manager (2IC), taking charge of day‑to‑day operations to ensure the farm runs smoothly and efficiently. I’m responsible for maintaining high productivity and profitability while protecting plant condition and ensuring top-level animal welfare. I often oversee the dairy shed and key routine tasks, and I work closely with the 2IC to carry out our agreed farm and herd management plan, making sure every task required for effective herd and farm performance is completed to a high standard.

Key Responsibilities – Ngā Kawenga Takohanga

• Support the 2IC with day‑to‑day farm operations, ensuring smooth running of the dairy shed and routine tasks.
• Assist with herd management by monitoring production, fertility, health, and accurate record‑keeping.
• Take responsibility for milking activities, troubleshooting issues, maintaining milk quality, and helping train new team members.
• Promote excellent animal health and welfare through proactive monitoring, treatment, and preventative programmes.
• Contribute to mating, breeding and calving, including heat detection, drafting, calving support and recording.
• Help manage pasture and feed planning to maximise herd performance and protect pasture quality.
• Carry out general farm maintenance, tractor work, weed/pest control and care for equipment, buildings and yards.
• Support compliance with environmental consents, farm policies and effluent management requirements.

Qualifications - Ngā Tohu Mātauranga

• Appropriate dairy industry
• Has or working towards GROWSAFE approved handler
• Full Driver’s

Experience - Ngā Pūkenga

• Minimum 2 years’ experience in the dairy industry.
• Relevant dairy industry training.
• Experience working within a strong, functional and high‑performing farm team.
• Proven ability to meet deadlines and work under pressure.
• Credibility within the dairy and agricultural sectors.

Attributes and Competencies - Ngā Pūmanawa me te Āheitanga

• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
• A commitment to improving environmental performance and sustainable farming practices.
• Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships.
• Tenacity to achieve results while supporting positive team culture.
• Good computer literacy and confidence using farm systems and records.
• Commitment to ongoing learning, coaching and mentoring of others.
• Understanding of or willingness to learn Ngāi Tahu values and te reo Māori.

We offer - Ko tā mātou mahi

• Life & health insurances
• 5 on 2 off roster outside of calving.
• Modern warm accommodation
• Close knit community with monthly BBQ’s

About us - Mō mātou

• 320ha effective fully irrigated by pivots.
• Peak milking 1030 cows.
• A Halter Farm.
• Runoff for wintering 10 minutes away.
• 64 Bale fully automated rotary cowshed, with ECR’s, in bail teat spraying and auto drafting.
• Modern and well maintained facilities and equipment.

At Ngai Tahu Farming, we're committed to producing sustainable products in line with our values. By joining our team, you'll play a vital role in driving positive change in farming practices throughout Aotearoa - New Zealand, all while contributing to the growth and protection of Ngāi Tahu tribal assets for future generations.

Join us in our mission to create a sustainable future for farming in New Zealand. Apply now to become a part of our dynamic team at Ngai Tahu Farming!

Me pēhea te tono mai - How to apply:

Apply today via our website.

Nau mai, haere mai, tauti mai!