• Be part of an inclusive, positive, and welcoming culture.
• Opportunity to be involved in both drystock and dairy grazing operations.
• Split role between stock work and general farm duties, plenty of variety.

WHERE

Waipa Valley Pastoral is a family-owned 900ha farming operation located 30 minutes southeast of Te Kuiti. The property includes a balanced mix of hill country, easy rolling finishing and grazing land, and native bush, and winters 1,600 Romney ewes, 120 Angus breeding cows, and 1,200 dairy heifers.

The property is supported by excellent infrastructure, with well-subdivided finishing country and a combination of electric and conventional fencing across the hill blocks. 

WHAT

Waipa Valley Pastoral is seeking a General Shepherd to join the team in a varied role with an even split between stock work and general farm duties. The role suits applicants transitioning from dairy grazing into drystock, as well as shepherds looking to develop their skills within a more intensive farming system. Having working dogs is an advantage but not essential, with the focus on finding the right person for the team.

Key responsibilities include livestock shifting across dairy and drystock operations, feeding out and break feeding, assisting with yard work, and completing fencing, water system, and general farm maintenance. The role also involves maintaining farm records, supporting weed control, keeping the farm presented to a high standard, and working closely with the Stock Manager to ensure clear communication and smooth daily operations.

To read more about the position and business please visit – https://bit.ly/48YYirc

WHO

Our client is looking for a General Shepherd to join their team in a varied role across stock work and general farm duties. The below are also key to success in this role:

• Have a good understanding of livestock management and stockmanship.
• A basic level of animal health and good attention to detail with stock.
• Be able to manage farm repairs and maintenance and general tasks such as water, fencing, weed control, vehicles and equipment.
• Be computer literate, previous experience with FarmIQ an advantage but not a necessity, good reporting and record keeping.
• Strong understanding of health and safety.

WHY

• Great support systems in place with management who are willing to pass on knowledge and upskill their employees.
• Provides the opportunity to gain further responsibility.
• Farming a mixed land unit system.
• Opportunity to work within an inclusive farming environment, where there is the chance to further your skills and progress your knowledge. 
• The Owner’s provide a positive work culture and value their people.
• Modern technologies and systems within the business. 
• There is varied mustering on offer that will enable you to fine tune your dog skills.
• A warm and comfortable 90m², three-bedroom home is provided, this is healthy homes certified with good heating.
• There are plenty of outdoor activities in the Mangaokewa region to unwind off farm.

HOW

• To apply for this role, please hit the APPLY button
• For further information on this role please visit https://bit.ly/48YYirc
• For a confidential chat give the Rural Directions team a call on 06 871 0450

Applications close Sunday 11th January 2026

Only job seekers who have NZ working rights will be eligible for this role.