Position Overview:
The Senior Shepherd will lead and coordinate daily operations related to sheep farming activities, ensuring the health, welfare and productivity of livestock. This is a hands-on role requiring practical farming experience, strong animal husbandry knowledge, and the ability to supervise staff and contractors on-farm.
Applicants must have:
- 2 years experience; and / or
- Bachelor's degree
- Minimum 30 hours per week guaranteed.
- Employee housing is provided on-site, and applicants must reside in the farm accommodation. No drive-in options available.
- Accommodation may be shared or private, depending on availability at the time of successful placement. No pets allowed.
Key requirements:
- Strong understanding of sheep health and reproduction management
- Experience in pasture management and feed budgeting
- Proven team leadership and people management skills
- Proficiency in operating farm vehicles and machinery
- Good record-keeping, problem-solving, and communication skills
- Must be physically fit
- Must pass pre-employment drug test
- Must provide a CV Must provide verifiable references of previous employment history
- Must have right to work in NZ/be NZ resident/Citizen
- Must have a driver licence
Key responsibilities:
- Livestock Management
- Monitor and maintain the health, nutrition, and welfare of sheep
- Implement and oversee animal health plans, including vaccinations, drenching, docking, lambing, and shearing operations
- Diagnose and treat common livestock ailments
- Coordinate and participate in mustering, handling, and movement of stock
- Pasture & Feed Management
- Plan and execute pasture rotation strategies and seasonal grazing plans
- Monitor pasture quality, supplementary feeding, and ensure adequate water supply
- Team Supervision & Training
- Supervise junior shepherds and farm hands; provide training on animal handling, safety, and farm protocols
- Lead daily staff briefings and ensure tasks are completed to standard
- Farm Maintenance
- Maintain and repair fencing, yards, water systems, and farm vehicles
- Operate and maintain farm machinery (tractors, ATVs, etc.).
- Planning & Records
- Maintain accurate records of livestock, treatments, and paddock use
- Assist in planning mating and lambing programmes in line with farm targets
- Provide input into budgeting and stock management plans.
- Health, Safety & Compliance
- Uphold high standards of health and safety on farm
- Ensure compliance with animal welfare regulations and biosecurity protocols
Please provide us with information as to your eligibility to work in New Zealand – if you are on a temporary visa or if you are a New Zealand citizen/resident.