WHERE

Matawai Deer Park is a family-owned farming operation situated in the rural community of Matawai, one hour north of Gisborne. The farm comprises two 400 ha properties, with the main block surrounding the township and a second lease block 2 km away. It operates a diverse livestock system of sheep, beef cattle and deer, managing 2,000 Romdale ewes and 500 cattle, 8,000su in total.

The deer operation is a core focus, particularly velveting, supported by 50 years of established genetics. The farm winters 1,100 deer, including 240 breeding hinds. Environmental stewardship is a priority, with waterways being fenced off and riparian plantings established, earning the farm an Environmental Farm Award. Matawai Deer Park is FAP approved and uses FarmIQ for recording and reporting.

WHAT

The Farm Manager will oversee the day-to-day operations and have overall management of both properties, with full training provided for deer management if needed. The role requires a team of capable working dogs and involves planning feed and pasture management, implementing stock rotations, and maintaining strong animal health practices.

The farm carries out its own cultivation work, so the role requires general agricultural experience. You will also need to work independently and maintain accurate recording and reporting. Support is provided by a full-time fencer general and guidance from the owner on stock policies and fertiliser decisions. There is the opportunity to engage a GFF cadet if you are open to mentoring.

To read more about the position and farm layout please visit – https://bit.ly/3ZMEkMf

WHO

Our client is looking for a dedicated and experienced Farm Manager to oversee the day-to-day operations of their diverse sheep, beef, and deer farming enterprise. The below are also key to success in this role:

·         Lead the day-to-day management of sheep, beef, and deer operations, must have a high level of stockmanship, be quiet and calm.

·         Plan and coordinate stock rotations, feed budgets, and seasonal priorities.

·         Maintain high standards of animal health, welfare, and stock handling.

·         Oversee fencing, general farm maintenance, and infrastructure development.

·         Support velvet production systems and ensure compliance with NZFAP standards.

·         Manage and mentor staff, fostering a positive and safe team culture.

·         Work closely with the owners on planning, budgets, and farm performance.

·         Uphold strong environmental and community values.

·         Ability to work autonomously and take responsibility of day-to-day farm operations.

WHY

·         Hands-on experience managing a diverse livestock operation (sheep, beef, deer) with exposure to velveting, cattle finishing, and high-performance sheep.

·         Farming a mixed land unit system.

·         A modern farming operation with a close relationship with their agents and processors.

·         Potential to support and mentor a GFF cadet.

·         With 140 paddocks over both properties, there is excellent scope for pasture and stock management.

·         The farm is velvet-focused, boasting over 50 years of carefully developed genetics and exceptionally quiet deer.

·         Matawai offers a welcoming environment with a good local school and a tight-knit community on the farm’s doorstep.

·         Accommodation is a well-maintained and comfortable home, featuring three bedrooms, an ensuite, a walk-in wardrobe, an office, and spacious lounge and dining areas.

Applications close Sunday 15th March 2026

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