WHERE

SJ Pastures is a forward-thinking dairy farming business that operates the Monowai Dairy Farm, located 25 minutes south of Taupō in the Rangitaiki area. The 370-hectare property has been fully refurbished, including modernised housing with double glazing and insulation, and a completely rebuilt 60-aside herringbone milking shed with new yards. The farm currently milks around 650 cows, aiming to increase to 900 next season, with plans to install automatic cup removers. Major infrastructure upgrades include new fencing, laneways, machinery, and a modern water system, with a central laneway connecting all paddocks to the milking shed. As the redevelopment nears completion, SJ Pastures offers an opportunity to join an inclusive team focused on refining production practices and aligning cow numbers with the enhanced infrastructure.                               

WHAT

As the 2IC you will work closely with the Farm Manager in daily operations and need to be capable managing the farm during the Manager’s absence. The role suits someone ready to take on more responsibility or an experienced manager seeking a reduced role within a supportive, productive team. The position needs a strong level of stockmanship and also involves learning a cut-and-carry lucerne feeding system across 82ha, with farm machinery experience being an advantage.

As the Farm Assistant you will be part of an inclusive team and involved in a range of duties including milking, pasture management, general farm work, and operating machinery such as feed-out wagons. The position offers the chance to learn from experienced operators, take on more responsibility over time, and gain exposure to all aspects of running a dairy unit.

To read more about the position and farm layout please visit – https://bit.ly/4pLfNlg

WHO

Our client is looking for a 2IC and a Farm Assistant to join their inclusive team. The below are also key to success in these roles:

2IC:

·         2-3 years’ dairy experience, this will enable you to look after the farm and support the manager on his days off.

·         Good understanding of pasture management.

·         High level of stockmanship and animal husbandry.

·         Strong communication, both verbal and written.

·         Be well planned and organised.

·         Have a positive attitude and a keenness to learn.

·         Enjoy working as part of a small team.   

Farm Assistant:

·         Need 1-year dairy farming experience.

·         Understand general skills such as fencing, machinery operating.

·         Enjoy having variety of work and be keen to learn.

·         Good level of stockmanship and cow management.

·         Have tidy work habits and attention to detail.

WHY

·         Opportunity to be part of a developing farm.

·         Learn from experienced operators who are committed to training, mentoring, and skill development.

·         Ideal environment for a Farm Assistant looking to progress, with exposure to all aspects of a modern, large-scale dairy operation.

·         Potential to broaden leadership and management capability within a supportive team structure.

·         Be part of an inclusive, small-team environment that values teamwork and productivity.

·         Centralised laneway system improving efficiency and daily workflow.

·         Convenient location, just 25-minutes south of Taupō, offering lifestyle balance and access to town amenities.

HOW

·         To apply for this role, please hit the APPLY button

·         For further information on this role please visit https://bit.ly/4pLfNlg

·         For a confidential chat give the Rural Directions team a call on 06 871 0450

Applications close Sunday 8th February 2026

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