Ashburton Farm Management Job Listings

Assistant Farms Manager - Darfield64627273560195110

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Assistant Farms Manager - Darfield

Our Co-operative Ata whakaarohia to apopo | Imagine Tomorrow with Us At Te Matapuna Fonterra, we want everyone to feel they can be themselves. Whether you're early in your career or ready for your next step, Fonterra offers a unique opportunity to grow with a global dairy co-operative that values care, collaboration, and contribution. Owned by New Zealand dairy farmers and supported by a dedicated team, we are all working together to create a better future. Imagine tomorrow with us, where your career can grow, and you can create positive change. He kupu mo matou | About us At Fonterra, our strength lies in our commitment to sustainable practices and innovation. The Nutrient Management team within Food Safety, Quality and Regulatory is dedicated to the sustainable management of nutrients from Fonterra’s manufacturing sites across New Zealand. We manage 29 Fonterra-owned farms, focusing on the management, sale, transportation, and spreading of nutrient-dense streams. Our vision is to achieve sustainable nutrient management on farms, adhering to Fonterra’s Global Sustainability standards and guidelines, while maximizing the value of nutrients and secondary products. Darfield Farm, located just five minutes northwest of the Darfield township spans 950 hectares over two blocks, with 675 hectares irrigated by ten Valley pivots. Darfield Farm is renowned for exporting high-quality pasture to supply Fonterra Shareholders via a cut carry system undertaken by local contractors. Lamb grazing compliments the system over periods when pasture harvest is not feasible, along with a small amount of school calves. The Darfield Farm employees two full-time staff that are responsible for the day to day running of the farm and ensuring the health and safety processes are at the highest of standards. Mo tenei turanga | About the Opportunity You will play a key role in supporting the Farm Manager to ensure the successful and sustainable operation of two farms that receive factory wastewater applications. These farming systems are designed to work in harmony with wastewater processes, balancing nutrient inputs from manufacturing activities with sound farming practices. You will help uphold a proactive and high-standard approach to health and safety throughout all operations. When the Farm Manager is off farm, you will take charge of running the farms, managing daily operations such as setting out weekly grazing plans, and maintaining a clean and well-organized farm. Your responsibilities also include supporting Darfield site operations, handling general farm maintenance tasks like fencing and spraying, and safely operating a wide range of farm machinery. You will regularly check and maintain farm equipment and vehicles to ensure they are kept in excellent condition, and you will be diligent in keeping accurate animal health records. Your contribution will be essential in managing the farm’s environmental performance and supporting Fonterra’s Darfield Manufacturing site. Mou | About You To be successful in this role, you will bring at least five years of hands-on farming experience and demonstrate confidence in performing a wide range of agricultural activities safely and efficiently. As a proactive self-starter, you will have strong skills in stock, pasture, and people management, and the ability to manage various stakeholders. We are looking for candidates who possess: • Excellent attention to detail and a strong sense of pride in their workmanship • A genuine passion for farming and a determined drive to achieve success • Extensive knowledge in mating, reproduction, and livestock care • A commitment to maintaining the presentation of our farms, coupled with a positive attitude and sense of humour • Relevant education or training in dairy farming will be highly regarded This is a permanent role where you will be working an average of 50 hours per week. The successful applicant will be provided the option of accommodation on farm in a modern three-bedroom one office house. Nga Aura | Our Values At Fonterra, our values of Good Together, Better Every Day, and Every Drop Counts, are for everyone – no matter your background, identify or experience. These values guide us in delivering exceptional outcomes for our farmers, customers, communities, and each other. Tatou Tatou | Join Us Does this sound good to you? Come join our whanau - bring your whole self, and let's solve for better together. You, me, us together, Tatou, tatou. Applications close at midnight on Thursday 11th December 2025

Canterbury Region, New Zealand

Negotiable Salary

Operators for 2026 harvest64519673413891111

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Operators for 2026 harvest

Seasonal positions available to join Roger Smith Contracting for the 2026 harvest season starting January. Positions would include: - Tractor and trailer operating - Combine operating - Baler operating - Truck driving - Cultivation and drilling Roger Smith Contracting is looking for an experienced and motivated tractor driver to join the team. The successful applicant will be a self-managed, quality focused individual, who thrives on building long term and long-lasting relationships with our agricultural clients. The applicant will work well in a team environment and be willing to give anything a go. Applicants must have a good knowledge of the Canterbury area and have a minimum of 2 years' experience with operating the above equipment. Applicants must be honest, reliable and self-motivated to do their absolute best at all times. Excellent communication skills and the ability to think on your feet is imperative. A high level of respect for the gear, keeping it clean, tidy and road legal is also essential. Applicants must hold a clean, full Class 1 licence for more than 2 years and undergo a pre-employment drug and alcohol test if requested. Holding a Class 5 and W,T,R licence would be an advantage. If this sounds like you, please get in touch with Roger Smith 027 223 0406 Or Bailey Smith 027 824 9968 Alternatively, you can email your CV to: Bailey8130@icloud.com

Ashburton, New Zealand

Negotiable Salary

Tree Trimming Machine Operator64041608485505112

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Tree Trimming Machine Operator

Do you like a challenge? Are you after a job where you can look back at the end of the day and take pride in your work? Do you enjoy working outdoors? Would you like a role where you cover the length and breadth of North Canterbury interacting with the great people who farm and live on this land? If this sounds like you then operating one of our truck-based tree trimmers may be the job you are looking for. McDonnell Tree Trim are looking for the right person with a solid work history, demonstrating. * Knowledge of heavy machinery operation, care & maintenance * Working in agriculturally based environments * Hardworking, reliable and conscientious * Problem solver with a can-do attitude * Integrity, Professionalism * Good Communication & Customer Service * Clean full NZ driver’s licence, HT Class 4 endorsement preferably If this sounds like you, email relevant information to clint@mtt.co.nz

Canterbury Region, New Zealand

NZ$35-45/hour

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Shepherd

Mt Somers Station is family farming operation with a total staff of 14. Running 11,000 sheep, 1000 cattle, a beekeeping operation and an 900 cow dairy unit. Working under a Livestock Manager along with 2 other shepherds in the livestock team, you'll be responsible for day-to-day animal husbandry, pasture management and general farm maintenance. A good team of 2-4 working dogs is required. The Station is close to great outdoor recreation, hunting, fishing, skiing and boating. There is a strong Foothills Young Farmers Club, Rugby and Squash clubs in Mt Somers Village and we are still close to the city, Christchurch 1 hr 15 minutes, Ashburton is 30 minutes and Methven is 20minutes. This job is ideal for someone who enjoys working as part of a team, is enthusiastic and energetic and is keen to progress into a career in Agriculture. Support will be given for further training/education for the right candidate.

Ashburton, New Zealand

Negotiable Salary

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Block Manager

Coleridge Downs Station – Block Manager Position About Coleridge Downs Ltd Coleridge Downs is a large-scale, progressive sheep, beef, and deer farming operation located in the Rakaia Gorge, Central Canterbury. Spanning over 9,500 hectares, the business runs 45,000 stock units across three properties. We are also proud to run a highly respected farm cadet training program. With four cadets accepted per year into a two-year programme, this provides an outstanding opportunity to help develop the next generation of New Zealand farmers. About Coleridge Downs Station Coleridge Downs Station is a 1,593ha effective breeding and finishing property, comprising 1,130 ha of cultivatable downs and 463 ha of uncultivatable hill country. The property winters approximately 19,000 stock units, including Headwaters breeding ewes, Angus cows, and a Red-deer venison herd. With a strong focus on breeding and supplying quality stock for finishing elsewhere within the business, Coleridge Downs Station also plays a key role in growing out young capital stock for the wider farming operation. A self-contained 700 ha deer unit enables all weaner deer to be finished on-farm. The team includes a Head Shepherd, two second-year cadets, and two first-year cadets. The Opportunity We’re looking for a hands-on, experienced Block Manager to take responsibility for the day-to-day running of Coleridge Downs Station. This is a leadership role suited to someone who not only excels at stock management but is looking to grow and enhance their skills across all aspects of a farming business. Key responsibilities include: * Overseeing all aspects of daily farm operations. * Regular weekly and monthly reporting to the Operations Manager, including feed budgeting, stock rotations, reconciliations, and general farm/business reporting. * Working closely with the senior management team across other farm business units, as well as contractors, agronomists, farm consultants, and suppliers to ensure smooth and efficient operations. * Managing breeding and finishing stock to a high standard ensuring production targets are being met or exceeded. * Leading, managing and supporting a small team, including cadets, with patience, encouragement, and strong communication. * Demonstrating initiative, adaptability, and attention to detail. * Embracing change and contributing positively to a progressive team culture. * Supporting cadet development, including dog handling and day-to-day on the job training. What You'll Bring: * Minimum of 3 years' previous experience in a Stock or Block Managers role. * Tertiary education in agriculture preferred, but not essential. * Strong planning, organisation, and reporting skills. * Excellent communication – both verbal and written. * Solid understanding of farm technology, with a willingness to embrace new tools and systems. * High energy and resilience suited to a fast-paced, dynamic environment. * Strong leadership and mentoring ability – a calm and supportive approach is essential. * Proven stockmanship and a good team of working dogs. * Ambition to grow within the business and take on more responsibility. * Experience with deer farming is advantageous, but not essential. What We Offer: * The chance to work in a stunning location as part of a forward-thinking and supportive team. * An opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the New Zealand agricultural sector through cadet mentoring. * A warm, sunny home on-farm. * A competitive remuneration package. * Access to a range of recreational activities: just 20 minutes from Mt Hutt access road, with hunting, fishing, and pristine lakes and rivers nearby. * A close-knit, welcoming rural community – Windwhistle, the Rakaia Gorge, and the wider Methven region. Applicants must have a full NZ driver’s license, and must have NZ residency or a valid NZ work visa. Coleridge Downs is committed to staff development, and the successful applicant will have opportunities both on and off farm to grow their personal and farming skills. A competitive renumeration package is on offer, based on experience including accommodation. If this exciting role sounds like the perfect fit for you, please email your CV and a cover letter along with at least two references to: coleridgedowns@gmail.com For further information please contact Charlie Johns, Operations Manager 022 073 9416

Selwyn, Dunsandel 7682, New Zealand

Negotiable Salary

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Hoof Trimmer

Join VeeHof – In leading the Way in Hoof Care Across New Zealand! Step Into a Unique Career: Become a Professional Hoof Trimmer. Hoof trimming is a hands-on, highly rewarding profession in a specialised and fast-growing corner of New Zealand’s dairy industry. While lameness may not be as prevalent here as in some overseas herds, proactive hoof care is vital to keeping cows healthy, mobile, and productive. Farmers know the value of skilled hoof trimming—not only for animal welfare, but also for the herds performance, productivity and farm success. At VeeHof Dairy Services Ltd, we are proud to be recognised as the flagship of New Zealand’s hoof trimming industry. With decades of experience, a reputation for excellence, and a commitment to raising standards, we are shaping the future of animal welfare nationwide. Now, we are looking for someone to join our team—not necessarily a trained hoof trimmer, but someone ready to learn, grow, and thrive in this essential role Excellent Pay- plus Bonus ________________________________________ What the Job Involves: • Using a hydraulic cattle crush to safely and efficiently secure cows—keeping the work physical but low strain. • Trimming hooves with precision and with a highly skilled technique. • Building up to trimming a good number of cows per day with accuracy, consistency, and professionalism. ________________________________________ Training & Certification: No experience? No problem. We will train the successful candidate to the highest international standards. You will have the opportunity to earn the Hoof Trimmer’s Diploma in Bovine Hoof Care—This internationally recognised qualification that sets you apart in the field. You will be trained directly under Fred Hoekstra, New Zealand’s leading hoof trimming expert and instructor at the Dairy Hoof care Institute—the country’s only dedicated training facility for professional hoof trimmers. Fred has trained most of New Zealand’s hoof trimming professionals and collaborates with the Dairy Training Centre in the Netherlands. ________________________________________ Why This Career Matters: • See the direct impact of your work—cows walking freely, farmers grateful, herds thriving. • Gain a respected, specialised skill in a profession that is still evolving in New Zealand. • Work outdoors, stay active, and be part of a team that values practical expertise and animal care. What we are looking for: • Fit, self-motivated individuals who take pride in doing a job well. • A current full NZ Driver’s License • Applicants must reside and be eligible to work in New Zealand • Good communication skills • Experience with cattle or dairy farming is a bonus—but not essential. • Most importantly: honesty, reliability, and a strong willingness to learn. Skills can be taught attitude is everything. ________________________________________ Ready to Apply? If you’re ready to join a team that’s setting the benchmark for hoof care in New Zealand and want a career that truly makes a difference, we’d love to hear from you. Send your CV and cover letter to Andrew Wright at andrew@veehof.co.nz

Ashburton, New Zealand

Negotiable Salary

Trademe

Stockperson

Five Star Beef, owned by ANZCO Foods, is based near Ashburton and is the only large-scale commercial cattle feedlot in New Zealand, producing high quality grain-finished beef. We are currently looking for a Feedlot Stockperson to join our team. This is a permanent role with a focus on supervision and care of beef cattle. Key duties will include: * Daily checks of cattle wellbeing and health * Drafting Cattle to market specification * Stock Treatments * Receival and Departure of cattle incl. EID scanning * Stock recording on computerised system * Operating machinery including JCB, Feed truck, Tractor etc. Skills and experience we are looking for: * Physical fitness, strength and mobility are required in this role * Experience in handling cattle * Experience drenching, vaccinating and tagging cattle preferable * Intermediate equestrian skills is preferable * Effective time management and prioritisation of work * Ability to work in a close-knit team and unsupervised as required We deliver taste, nutrition, and wellbeing to the world with products made from New Zealand finest beef and lamb. Our values of atawhaitanga, noho haepapa, kaitiakitanga, auahatanga, and whakawhirinakitanga guide us to work together, follow through on our commitments, make improvements, and do our best to make sustainable decisions for the future. We are committed to supporting and developing our people and we offer a competitive remuneration package. If you are motivated, have the skills and experience we require and want to be part of the exciting future of our company then we want to hear from you. Applications close: 11th September 2025

Ashburton, New Zealand

Negotiable Salary

Experienced Shepherd General63612610562179117

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Experienced Shepherd General

We are looking for an experienced shepherd to fill a key role on our busy family owned and operated sheep and beef farm. We require someone with good stockmanship skills and an interest in general stock management. It is essential to have a minimum of at least one good heading dog and one good huntaway. The successful applicant needs to be keen, fit, hard working and interested. There is opportunity to be involved in all aspects of our busy farming operation. Machinery and fencing experience is desirable. We run 11,000 stock units comprised of 9500 sheep which includes a Perendale and a Suffolk stud, and 380 cattle wintered. Warm modern single accommodation available, good friendly work environment.

Selwyn, Dunsandel 7682, New Zealand

Negotiable Salary

On Farm Asset Technician63612271768321118

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On Farm Asset Technician

Ata whakaarohia to apopo | Imagine Tomorrow with Us At Te Matapuna Fonterra, we want everyone to feel they can be themselves. Whether you're early in your career or ready for your next step, Fonterra offers a unique opportunity to grow with a global dairy co-operative that values care, collaboration, and contribution. Owned by New Zealand dairy farmers and supported by a dedicated team, we are all working together to create a better future. Imagine tomorrow with us, where your career can grow, and you can create positive change. Mo tenei turanga | About the opportunity Are you passionate about agriculture and skilled in maintaining and managing on farm infrastructure and assets? We’re looking for a hands on, proactive and practical On Farm Assets Technician to join our team and help ensure our on farm assets run smoothly and efficiently for our farmer shareholders. Your time will be spent visiting our farmers and carrying out the removal, installation and preventative repairs and maintenance of our On-Farm Assets. There is also a strong focus on milk collection compliance, reporting and building positive relationships with all stakeholders. Reporting to our Regional On Farm Asset Specialist, you will be based at our Darfield site, servicing the wider Canterbury region, which will require a large amount of travel. Key responsibilities include: Undertake day-to-day on farm activities Installation, repair and maintenance, removal of farm mikk vats and associated Fonterra owned assets on farm Input of farm asset data; maintaining accurate records of asset conditions and maintenance schedules Provide technical advice and assistance to suppliers Respond to complaints and escalate issues as appropriate within guidelines Support capital improvement projects and seasonal readiness tasks Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental standards Extensive training will be provided in all aspects of the role with emphasis on Health & Safety, Working at Heights & Confined Spaces, Team Engagement, Asset Care & Preventative Maintenance. Usual hours of work are Monday – Friday (7.30am – 4.30pm) and there will be an element of travel away from home associated with the role. About you | Moe koe You will be renowned as a great communicator who easily develops sound relationships with a diverse group of people. You will have excellent time management and planning skills and will enjoy the challenge and variety this role affords. Your natural problem solving, and analytical mindset will help you to thrive in this position. Whilst a background in maintenance, a basic mechanical aptitude and dairy industry experience would be beneficial, having the right people skills and attitude will be essential to your success. You will also need a clean Class 4 license, or be keen to work towards it, be a competent user of Microsoft Office suite and be physically fit. Nga Uara | Our Values At Fonterra, our values of Good Together, Better Every Day, and Every Drop Counts, are for everyone – no matter your background, identify or experience. These values guide us in delivering exceptional outcomes for our farmers, customers, communities, and each other. Discover how your values align with ours by taking our Values Quiz here.. Ta matou oati | Our Commitment to You We care for our people globally. Our comprehensive benefits support your well-being, development, and work-life balance: Fair and equitable pay Health and well-being programs (medical, mental health support) Professional development opportunities Career growth support Work-life balance options (flexible/hybrid working where possible) Parental leave support Employee recognition Support for community involvement and cultural connection To learn more, visit Fonterra Careers. Nga Mahi | A Career of Opportunities At Te Matapuna Fonterra, be inspired by purpose and guided by our principles and values. Create goodness for generations and make a global impact at a local level. As part of our Co-operative, be an everyday creator, imagining what Fonterra, dairy, and you can be here. He Wahi mo te Katoa | Together, we're shaping a future of inclusion. Inclusion is key to our Co-operative. We're building a team that reflects the diverse world we live in, believing it drives better decisions and innovation. We welcome applications from all backgrounds (ethnicities, genders, identities, orientations, ages, abilities, neurotypes, cultures, religions). If you face accessibility issues or need reasonable accommodations during the process, please contact your recruiter. We ensure fair participation, allowing you to be at your best. Tatou, tatou

Selwyn, Dunsandel 7682, New Zealand

Negotiable Salary

Trademe

Experienced Fencer

Our client has a heap of work on and is looking for a motivated worker with a can-do attitude and the ability to work unsupervised, creating results.You'll need to have at least 2 years experience with rural fencing, but you may occasionally need to do alternative types of fencing. You will be roaming over the greater canterbury area and into the high country as required.Ideally you will have experience operating machinery and be mechanically minded. Whats in it for you: * Great pay, with room to grow * Fresh air and great views * Keep fit while on the job * Working in a small team with a great boss * Career development Requirements: * Full class 1 licence (WTR advantageous) * Ability to pass a drug test * Physically fit with stamina * Confident driving off road * Experience with machinery such as Tractors * Reliable * Self-motivated with great work ethic * Clean criminal history If you think you've got what it takes, apply below with your CV or call Tim

Selwyn, Dunsandel 7682, New Zealand

Negotiable Salary

Trademe

Stock Manager

Lake Heron Station is seeking a motivated and experienced stock person for the role of Stock Manager. The Station is situated in the Ashburton Lakes, 90kms inland from Ashburton. The 14,000su property, runs Merinos and Angus cattle, and is a balance of traditional high country, larger blocks and 750ha of cultivated paddocks. The high country is grazed by a wether flock, which is mustered in spring and autumn. The position involves running all practical aspects of the stock operation and the organisation of the staff programme. The successful applicant will need to be able to communicate well with both staff and owners. The following are some to the duties involved in the position: *Animal welfare and all animal health applications *Ensuring stock are well-fed *All stock movements *Stock reconciliation *Weighing, condition scoring and recording *Ensuring good pasture management and covers are maintained *Planning of specific events in the farming calendar eg shearing, mustering, weaning, tailing, *General maintenance *Daily communication with staff and ensuring staff time is utilised efficiently *Involvement in Health and Safety Programme The farming operation takes place in a sensitive environment and a willingness to work within the owners' environmental goals is important. In addition, we have a tourism business involving accommodation, farm tours, scenic flights, heliskiing and catered lunches. There maybe the opportunity for a partner to be involved in this aspect of the business. Excellent warm and modern 3 bedroom home is available with the position. www.lakeheron.co.nz @lakeheronstation

Ashburton, New Zealand

Negotiable Salary

Tractor and Truck Drivers636122350818591111

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Tractor and Truck Drivers

Full time and casual positions available to join our small family run business for the upcoming 2025 - 2026 season starting from August 2025 until April 2026. Positions would include: -Operating all types of cultivation and drilling equipment -Combine operating -Baler operating -Part time truck driving - this could be full time for the right applicant Roger Smith Contracting is looking for an experienced and motivated tractor driver to join the team. The successful applicant will be a self-managed, quality focused individual, who thrives on building long term and long-lasting relationships with our agricultural clients. The applicant will work well in a team environment and be willing to give anything a go. Applicants must have a good knowledge of the Canterbury area and have a minimum of 2 years experience with operating the above equipment. Applicants must be honest, reliable and self motivated to do their absolute best at all times. Excellent communication skills and the ability to think on your feet is imperative. A high level of respect for the gear, keeping it clean, tidy and road legal is also essential. Applicants must hold a clean, full Class 1 licence for more than 2 years and undergo a pre-employment drug and alcohol test if requested. Holding a Class 5 and W,T,R licence would be an advantage. If this sounds like you please don’t hesitate to call Roger Smith 027 223 0406 Or Bailey Smith 027 824 9968 Alternatively you can email your CV to: Bailey8130@icloud.com

Ashburton, New Zealand

Negotiable Salary