Agriculture Jobs in Canterbury

Dairy Farm Assistant required. The position involves supporting the Farm Managers in achieving the farm’s production and profit goals through assisting with the day-to-day operation of the farm, and to follow good animal health and welfare, and environmental practices. Previous experience on a dairy farm, driving two wheelers and tractors would be an advantage but is not essential. All training can be provided and for specific farm operational procedures. The farm is located in Dorie, 25 minutes from Ashburton. The ideal candidate will have the right attitude and be motivated to have a successful career in dairy farming and be looking to progress from this role and undergo any required additional training. It is essential that the successful candidate will be motivated, proactive and able to work in a team. Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug test. Accommodation is shared and due to contract with farm owners - no pets allowed. This position is available to candidates from any location, as long as you are able to relocate to take up the position. We will be conducting interviews both in person and remotely (dependent on the location of the applicant). Shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Farm Size (ha): 200 Peak Herd Size (cows): 850 Typical On-farm Staff: 4 Position Start Date: 01/05/2026 Accommodation available: Yes. Shared furnished accommodation. No pets. Hour Type: week Average Hours Per week: 49.5 Roster: Triple rotation - 7 Days on / 2 days Off - 7 Days on / 2 days Off - 7 Days on / 3 days Off Remuneration paid by: Total Package Value (e.g. Salary and/or benefits) Remuneration if Total Package Value (e.g. Salary and/or benefits): 66580

We have 3 positions available for calf rearers near Rangiora. We have 1300 cows and rear 350 replacements in total over 2 farms. The focus is on attention to detail and healthy replacement and bobby calves as well as running an efficient calf rearing system. All roles require a strong, physically capable person able to handle calves. The farms are 1km from Rangiora. Accommodation is available for all positions if required. 1. Lead calf rearer – this person will be responsible for the calf rearing team and be involved with planning with the farm manager. This role requires proven experience with calf rearing and an ability to work with staff. The role is fulltime from late July to late September, and then hours reducing until all the calves are weaned in early December. 2. Calf rearing 2ic – this role will be to support the lead calf rearer and maintain high standards. This is a fulltime position from late July to late September. Some calf rearing experience preferred. 3. Assistant calf rearer. – this person will be physically capable and help with the peak of calving. No experience needed. The role is from 1st August to 10th September. Please state which position you are applying for.

Yes this is it.....the perfect job if you are seeking the next step before farm management and are passionate about farming to a high standard like we are. We are owner operators and milk 630 young crossbred cows through a 54 bail rotary with cup removers, in shed feeding, in bail teat spraying and full pro-track with CowManager cow monitoring. Paddock Wood is a very tidy farm located just 16kms from Hinds and 30kms from both Geraldine and Ashburton. You will get a variety of work and not just milk cows as we are keen to help people develop their skills and have a history of our staff progressing to Management and Contract/Variable order positions. We are looking for a farmer who has pride in their work, has proven pasture management skills has a "can do" common sense attitude and is both honest and reliable. Please only apply if you are legally allowed to work in NZ and are in NZ to attend an interview, thanks. Farm Size (ha): 175 Peak Herd Size (cows): 630 Typical On-farm Staff: 3 Accommodation available: A modern 2 bedroom house with heat pump and single garage. Average Hours Per week: 50 Roster: Single rotation - 8 Days on / 2 days Off Remuneration if Total Package Value (e.g. Salary and/or benefits): Negotiable on experience.

Location: Ikawai (approx. 20 mins to Waimate, 30 mins to Oamaru) Herd: 700 cows | Shed: 44 ASHB We’re seeking an enthusiastic and reliable Second-in-Charge (2IC) to join our team in Ikawai. We are stepping into this farm as new operators, so this will be a fresh challenge for everyone — a great opportunity to be part of a team that’s building strong systems, good routines, and a positive culture from the start. We value care, consistency, and strong standards. Cleanliness and pride in our surroundings matter to us — when a place is well cared for, it becomes safer, easier to work in, and more enjoyable for everyone who lives and works there. As a small team, we back good people who communicate well, respect each other, and genuinely contribute to a positive atmosphere. About the role As 2IC, you will work closely with the Farm Manager to ensure the smooth running of day-to-day operations. This is a hands-on role where you will step up and take responsibility for the farm when the Manager is away. You’ll help lead and support a team of four staff, keeping routines consistent and helping everyone stay on track — especially as we settle into the new farm together. This role is well-suited to someone with a minimum of 4 years’ dairy farming experience, who takes pride in doing a job properly and enjoys being part of a team environment. Key responsibilities - Milking & milk quality: Support efficient milkings, consistent routines, and high milk quality and hygiene standards. - Animal health: Daily monitoring and reporting (lameness, mastitis, calving issues), assisting with treatments and records as required. - Mating & calving: Support the mating program and help ensure calving runs smoothly with a strong focus on animal health and welfare. - Pasture & feeding: Assist with feed allocation, break fencing, and monitoring pasture quality and cow condition. - Machinery operation: Confident and safe operation of farm vehicles and machinery, following health and safety requirements. - Farm oversight: Step up to lead the farm and support staff when the Farm Manager is away. What we’re looking for - Minimum 4 years’ dairy farming experience (NZ experience preferred). - A positive, team-focused attitude and good communication. - Someone who takes initiative, can lead by example, and stays calm under pressure. - Reliable, hardworking, and consistent. - Pride in presentation — tidy facilities, good hygiene, and a “leave it better than you found it” mindset. What we offer - A supportive team environment with clear expectations and real responsibility - A chance to grow with the role as we establish the farm and build something solid over time Pre-employment requirements - Pre-employment drug test required (drug-free workplace) Please Provide your Cv and tell us why you would suits this role.

We run a 550 cow farm under pivot irrigation milking in a 40 aside herringbone shed. We require a hard working, reliable and motivated 2IC to join our team for the 2026/27 season. You will work closely with the sharemilkers, making this position a great opportunity for you to further your farming knowledge and skills to progress through the industry. As sharemilkers we aim to foster a positive working environment with all team members encouraged to join in on farm discussions. We are looking for someone who is motivated and keen to progress through the dairy industry with a strong work ethic, good attention to detail and efficient time management. The following attributes are essential for this position: · Good knowledge of pasture quality and management · Excellent animal husbandry skills · A drive and attention to detail to gain best production possible · High level of shed hygiene · The ability to work well with others · Strong communication skills · Ability to drive all farm machinery · Ability to follow and implement farm policies

We are seeking a motivated individual for relief milking or farm assistant duties on a roster basis, with an immediate start available. The role involves milking 1,580 cows twice daily using an 80 bail rotary shed equipped with automatic cup removers (ACR), in-shed feeding and automatic teat spray. If you are reliable, enjoy working with livestock, and are ready to join our team, please get in touch through email (milkyland.ltd@gmail.com) or call/text 02108360850. We are 10 min away from Ashburton. Accommodation provided. Farm Size (ha): 400 Peak Herd Size (cows): 1580 Typical On-farm Staff: 6 Position Start Date: 07/02/2026 Accommodation available: yes Hour Type: negotiable Average Hours Per week: 30-40 Roster: Single rotation - 6 Days on / 2 days Off Remuneration paid by: Hourly / Daily / Weekly / Monthly / Yearly

PLEASE APPLY ONLY IF YOU ARE IN NEW ZEALAND and can attend FACE TO FACE interview. We are looking for FARM ASSISTANT to join our team. The farm has 210 hectares effective area with 800 peak cows through 40 ASHB. Farm is flat with Pivot, k line and rotorainers irrigation. Role includes but not limited to the following: · Milking efficient and hygienic milking routine. Follows procedure high quality of milk. · Assist in the safe handling of animals, report any health and welfare issue as per farm policy · Control weeds, sets break fences and feeding out.(tractor works) · Shifting Effluent and irrigation · General farm works. · Works well with others, building a strong team culture. · Safe uses of machine and maintain vehicles on the farm · Committed to learning new skills. · Comply with all health and safety requirement. APPLICANTS MUST have the following requirements Have full Driver's license Pass the pre-employment drug test (random drug test is performed anytime) Physically fit and in good health. (lifting heavy loads required) Able to work weekends and early start (4.30am) Must be responsible for your actions, honest, on time, positive, have strong ethics and show initiatives. Farm is fast paced and working as a team is important but need to think for yourself. Late and excuses will not work on the farm. Willingness to learn No pets on farm No smoking or vaping Must have clean criminal records Reference from last employer on CV Please send CV through Farmsource Salary depends on skills Farm Size (ha) 210 Peak Herd Size (cows) 800 Typical On-farm Staff 3 Position Start Date 31/03/2025 Accommodation available Yes Hour Type week Average Hours Per week 40-45 Roster Single rotation - 6 Days on / 2 days Off Remuneration paid by Total Package Value (e.g. Salary and/or benefits)

A fantastic opportunity is available for a dedicated and passionate Dairy Farm Assistant to join our team at Culverden for immediate start. Situated in the scenic Amuri Basin, just a short 10-minute drive from Culverden township, our farm milks 900 cows using a modern 50-bale rotary cowshed with cup removers, Protrack drafting, and inshed feeding systems. Our farm is equipped with top-tier infrastructure, including pivot irrigation, ensuring optimal conditions for both the cows and our team. We value a strong work ethic, punctuality, and teamwork. You’ll join a tight-knit team where collaboration and knowledge sharing are key, and we take pride in fostering a supportive environment where our staff thrive. In return for your dedication, we offer a competitive salary (negotiable based on experience), favorable work schedules (with an 11-on, 3-off roster), and the option to rent a 1 bedroom house. If you're passionate about agriculture and eager to advance your career in the dairy industry, we’d love to hear from you! Please send your CV with references and a cover letter to topcow9@gmail.com. We look forward to meeting our next team member. Candidates must have: - Valid NZ driver’s license - A commitment to maintaining a drug-free status Join us in a role where you can grow, lead, and be part of a community that values each individual’s contribution!

**About the Role:** We are seeking a dedicated and hardworking Dairy Farm Assistant to join our team at Lead with Pride Farm, where we manage 950 cows for milking. This is an exciting opportunity to work in a fast-paced environment, ensuring smooth farm operations, animal care, and contributing to our efficient dairy production process. If you're passionate about agriculture, have experience or a willingness to learn, this could be the perfect role for you! **Key Responsibilities:** - **Milking:** Assist with the daily milking process for our herd of 950 cows, ensuring animal welfare and product quality. - **Farm Breaks:** Coordinate and manage scheduled breaks for the cows, ensuring their well-being and comfort. - **Irrigation:** Assist with the operation and maintenance of farm irrigation systems to support the health of the crops. - **General Farm Duties:** Perform other essential farm duties such as feeding, cleaning, animal handling, and equipment maintenance. - **Animal Care:** Assist with routine health checks, vaccinations, and other care tasks to maintain herd health. **Ideal Candidate:** - Previous farm experience (preferably dairy). - Strong work ethic and willingness to learn. - Physically fit and able to perform manual labor. - Ability to work independently as well as part of a team. - Knowledge of irrigation systems is beneficial, but training will be provided. - A passion for farming and animal welfare. **What We Offer:** - Competitive salary with opportunities for advancement. - A supportive team environment. - On-the-job training and development. - Shared Accommodation. - An opportunity to be part of a proud and growing farm business. **Please Note:** This is a fixed term job until 1st June. Applicants should have NZ Residency or a valid NZ Work Visa. **Apply Now!** Please send your CV and a brief cover letter to rowanmichael237@gmail.com

We are on the search for a Farm Assistant for the 2026/2027 season onwards, to work alongside us on our Dairy farm based near Dunsandel. As a business we are passionate about the dairy industry and creating a culture where people can grow. We take pride in our farming business and producing the highest quality product we can, whilst respecting the land, Animals and People. The Dairy farm Consists of: - 165 ha Milking Platform Flat contour - 640 Cows Peak milked - Feed System 3-4 - Modern 42 aside Herringbone ACRs + Auto Draft, In shed feeding - Halter Cow collars - Pivot Irrigation - Fonterra Supply - 3.5 FTE We are looking for a team member with some Dairy Farming experience, but most importantly someone that is passionate about dairy farming and keen to learn and grow within the industry. Duties include working closely with the Sharemilker to organize and carry out daily milkings, pasture management, animal health and husbandry, shifting irrigation, and all other daily farm jobs. This position can suit a range of levels of experience. The ideal candidate would be honest and reliable, self-motivated, with good work ethic and be ready to learn new skills. Full Driver’s license is required. We can offer you on the job training and we support upskilling through Primary ITO. Contract is negotiable depending on experience. We have a no Drug and alcohol policy on farm with pre-employment drug testing. Applicants must be a New Zealand resident or have the appropriate work visa for our job. Accommodation available: Single bedroom home Average Hours Per week: 50 Roster: By negotiation Remuneration paid by: By Negotiation

We are looking for a motivated and capable 2IC (Assistant Farm Manager) to join our team next season. We milk 750 cows through a 44-bale rotary with ACR and Protrack in Leeston. This role suits someone who is passionate about dairy farming, takes pride in high standards, and is ready to step up into a leadership position. **Key Responsibilities & Skills Required** **Animal Health** - Confident in identifying and treating mastitis and lameness - Able to carry out hoof trimming - Able to identify breech calving and manage calving cows - Strong knowledge of young stock management, including animal health and growth targets **Pasture & Feed Management** - Able to pasture score accurately - Understands and manages rotational grazing effectively to maximise pasture utilisation **Machinery & Irrigation** - Good understanding of farm machinery and equipment - Able to operate, maintain, and identify issues with heavy machinery - Confident operating and managing various irrigation systems, including: - Pivot - Rotarainer - Fixed grid - Sprinkler - Travelling irrigators **Cowshed Management** - Competent in managing the cowshed - Able to identify and solve day-to-day issues efficiently to keep operations running smoothly **Staff Management & Leadership** - Able to manage staff and work well as part of a team - A positive leader who leads by example - Able to give clear instructions and communicate expectations effectively **What We’re Looking For** - Strong work ethic and attention to detail - Good time management and problem-solving skills - A team player who takes pride in their work - Someone keen to grow their career in dairy farming - Must pass a pre-employment drug test and have no criminal convictions If you are reliable, experienced, and ready to take the next step in your dairy farming career, we would love to hear from you.

We’re looking for an honest, reliable and motivated Farm Assistant to join our team for the 2026/27 season. Our farm is currently in its first season, with all-new infrastructure and modern systems in place. Located 40 minutes from central Christchurch, the property is run in conjunction with a large drystock support block and two other dairy farms, providing a collaborative and well-resourced farming environment. If you’re keen to grow in the dairy industry, this could be the role for you! We are after someone who is passionate about dairy farming and takes pride in their work. You must have a can-do attitude and be a great team player as the team environment is everything to us. We offer a positive, fun, and respectful working environment. While dairy farm experience is a bonus, it’s not essential – what’s important is being willing to learn. A focus for us is clean, hygienic milking practices to produce top quality milk. If you care about looking after animals and want to be part of a team that values people and livestock, we’d love to hear from you. About the farm: · Herd and Milking – 800 cow Friesian crossbred herd, with Halter collars, milked through a state-of-the-art 60-bale rotary shed with Protrack and in-shed feeding. · Platform – 199 ha effective milking area, high-quality pastures and pivot irrigation. · Facilities – Composting barn for wintering, stand-off area for wet weather, and on-farm accommodation options to suit the successful applicant. · Family Friendly – School bus service at the gate for primary and secondary students. This is a unique opportunity to be part of a newly developed farm and team. If you are driven to operate at a high standard in all aspects of farming and keen to establish a long-term relationship that offers great career progression then don’t hesitate to apply. Applicants must be NZ citizens or have the right to work in New Zealand.

If you are looking for something that supports that work/ life balance, is a little bit different than the rest then read on. We are contract milkers heading into our 6th season on this farm, with myself wanting to step off farm to study and follow other dreams, we are looking for someone to fill my shoes. We milk 500 jersey cows, twice a day until December then we go OAD. 36 aside herringbone, cow manager tags, automated drafting, flat to rolling farm, 5 pivots, fixed grid, k-lines and couple boarders. The farm has a vege garden, couple goats, the odd sheep from time to time. We run a simple mainly grass based system with crops on the fringes of the season. We are looking for someone that will be able to manage the day to day running of the farm, pasture management, animal health and milking's. There will be minimal tractor work, a little feeding out and applying urea. Steve (husband) will still be on farm full time so won't be left without backup. We plan to have a full time milker and a calf rearer also to help take the pressure off. So open for a couple if partner would like some work also.

We're looking for 2-3 people to join our dairy team on a fixed-term basis over our busy season from April/May to September/October 2026, to cover time off for our team and our busy calving period. We may have some flexibility in start and end date. You'll be part of a supportive crew where a positive attitude, willingness to learn, and good communication are valued above all. While experience in milking, riding a 2 wheeler, and general farm work is great, we're happy to train the right person who has some relevant animals, mechanical, physical labour, or similar experience. Requirements: - Willingness to learn and strong communication skills - Ability to work as part of a team - Available mid April/May - September/October - Genuine attitude and reliability Responsibilities: - Milking in a rotary shed - Getting cows in and putting up temporary fencing - Support daily farm tasks and assist other team members - Help maintain a safe and tidy work environment - Ability to take on other tasks dependent on experience The farms are both 20 minutes to Ashburton in Mid Canterbury. Accommodation is available with the role. Minimum of 30 hours/week provided, pay rate ranges from $25-$30/hour depending on experience and fit, and is paid fortnightly. Please contact us to discuss this opportunity further. Applicants must already be eligible to work in NZ, have a full drivers license, provide a CV with their application, and fill out our application form including supplying relevant references. Must be prepared to do a drug test if required. Please do not apply if you are not already eligible to work in NZ. If we shortlist you, you will know as we will send you our application form within 3 working days of receiving your application.

An opportunity is available for an experienced and motivated Farm Manager to lead the operations of a 340-cow dairy farm, just 10 minutes from Kaikoura. **About the Role:** - Manage the day-to-day operations of the farm, ensuring smooth and efficient running. - Demonstrate excellent stockmanship, including calf rearing and youngstock management. - Apply proven skills in pasture management to maintain and improve farm productivity. - Operate a 36 ASHB cowshed with cup removers and oversee K-Line irrigation systems effectively. - Maintain high standards of work while fostering a positive, can-do farm culture. **What’s on Offer:** - Accommodation: 2 x 3-bedroom houses available; school bus passes the gate. - Replacements remain on-farm, making youngstock management experience essential. - Flexible contract arrangements, negotiable to suit the right candidate. If you take pride in your work, have strong all-round dairy farming skills, and are looking for a rewarding opportunity to progress in the industry, we want to hear from you.

We’re looking for a reliable, hardworking person with farming experience to join our team and grow their career in the dairy industry. About the Role You’ll help with all daily farm operations, working alongside our team to keep the farm running smoothly. This role is ideal for someone with practical dairy experience who wants to develop their skills and progress in the industry. Key Responsibilities - Assist with milking twice daily and maintain dairy hygiene and milk quality. - Provide high standards of animal care: feeding, moving stock, observing health, and reporting issues. - Support calf rearing and care for replacement and youngstock. - Help maintain farm infrastructure, equipment, and yards. - Follow health and safety practices and farm protocols. - Assist with seasonal duties such as calving, pasture management, and effluent handling. What We’re Looking For - Previous dairy farm experience, especially with youngstock, is preferred. - Strong work ethic, reliability, and ability to work both independently and as part of a team. - Practical skills operating basic farm machinery safely. - Good communication skills and a positive attitude. - Physically fit and ready to work outdoors in all weather conditions. What’s on Offer - Accommodation: 3-bedroom cottage available; school bus passes the farm gate. - Flexible contract arrangements for the right candidate. If you take pride in your work, enjoy farm life, and want to grow your career in dairy farming, we’d love to hear from you. For questions or to apply, call Hamish on 027 367 0668.

A great opportunity has opened for a motivated and experienced Contract Milker to join a 340-cow dairy farm, just 10 minutes from Kaikoura. **The Role:** - Manage the day-to-day operations of the farm in a contract milking capacity. - Provide excellent stockmanship, including calf rearing and youngstock management. - Apply proven pasture management skills to maintain farm productivity. - Operate a 36 ASHB cowshed with cup removers and efficiently manage K-Line irrigation. - Maintain a high standard of work while demonstrating a positive, can-do attitude. **What’s on Offer:** - Two 3-bedroom houses available; school bus passes the gate. - Youngstock stay on farm, making experience with replacements essential. - Flexible contract arrangements, negotiable for the right candidate. If you take pride in your work, have strong all-round farming skills, and are ready to progress in the dairy industry, we’d love to hear from you. For enquiries or to apply, contact Hamish on 027 367 0668.

**Job Description** **Feed Production Management** • Assist with any feed planning or the management of as appropriate. • Assist to manage weeds and pests to maintain pasture and crops. • Milking • Maintain all appropriate effluent management records. • Know what to do when things go wrong. **Animals** • Implement animal health program to maintain good health. • Assist with calving and the calf rearing program to achieve minimal losses and ensure high quality replacements are available for the herd. • Assist to manage repairs and maintenance schedule for all plant, machinery and infrastructure. • Ensure all relevant company policies are understood and adhered to. Experience/qualification is an advantage but not essential. • Dedication, commitment and willing to learn are the traits we are looking for. **Farm Size (ha)** 233 **Peak Herd Size (cows)** 930 **Typical On-farm Staff** 5 **Accommodation available** SHARED **Average Hours Per week** 40 **Roster** Single rotation - 8 Days on / 2 days Off **Remuneration paid by** By Negotiation

We are looking for a capable and committed 2IC/Assistant Manager to join our team on a 765-cow dairy farm. Located in Cheviot North Canterbury, @1.15 hours drive from Christchurch. This key role supports the Farm Manager in all aspects of daily operations, upholding high standards across the board and helping to lead the team to deliver exceptional results. The successful candidate will be honest, proactive (with a solution-focused attitude), reliable, and calm and composed under pressure. They will be dedicated to animal welfare, pasture management and team development. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Animal Health: Promptly identify and treat animal health issues. Monitor the wellbeing of all stock and ensure they receive appropriate care. Pasture Management: Oversee pasture allocation, pasture walks, and grazing management to ensure cows are fully fed at all times while maintaining quality pastures (this involves seeing the cows in the paddock several times a day). Machinery Operation: Operate and maintain farm machinery and vehicles; including tractors, feed out wagons, spreaders, and motorbikes; with confidence and care. Dairy Shed Standards: Manage the dairy shed, ensuring the highest standards of hygiene and cleanliness are maintained at all times. Compliance: Ensure full compliance with animal welfare, health and safety, and environmental regulations. Staff Management: Lead junior staff on rostered shifts, supervise daily tasks, and support the ongoing development of the team. Daily Planning and Operations: Assist the Farm Manager with daily planning, task allocation, and workflow management. Leadership: Take responsibility for managing the farm during the Farm Manager’s absence or days off, ensuring continuity and maintenance of high standards. Minimum of 2 years NZ dairy farming experience or relevant qualification. Must have NZ Driving license. Applicants must be drug free and non-smoking. Minimum of 30 hours - maximum of 45 hours per week. If you are reliable, motivated, and looking for a responsible role with good systems and support, we would love to hear from you.

We require a hard working, reliable and motivated 2IC to join our team for the 2026/27 season. You will work closely with the sharemilkers, making this position a great opportunity for you to further your farming knowledge and skills to progress through the industry. As sharemilkers we aim to foster a positive working environment with all team members encouraged to join in on farm discussions. We pride ourselves on running a tidy farm with high production on a predominantly pasture based system and have a strong focus on breeding. We milk 640 cows through a 50 bale rotary (in shed feeding, ACR’s, auto teat spray and drafting). The farm is 185ha and spray irrigated via a centre pivot, rotorainer and a small area of sprinklers. Effluent is applied via the centre pivot. The farm is located in Winchmore, Mid Canterbury within 13mins of both Ashburton and Methven. We are looking for someone who is motivated and keen to progress through the dairy industry with a strong work ethic and good attention to detail. The following attributes are essential for this position: · Good knowledge of pasture quality and management · Excellent animal husbandry skills · A drive and attention to detail to gain best production possible · High level of shed hygiene · The ability to work well with others · Strong communication skills · Ability to drive all farm machinery · Ability to follow and implement farm policies We are not accredited employers so please only apply if you are an NZ citizen/resident. Please apply with a covering letter and up to date CV.