Shepherd General | Owāhanga Station – Aohanga

Job Description

Owāhanga Station – Aohanga

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About the role

Owāhanga Station comprises of 7,200 hectares (approx. 2,300 effective) of whenua stretching from Akito in southern Hawkes Bay, to Mataikona in the northern Wairarapa. The size and varied terrain of the station offer a challenging and rewarding working environment, where kaitiakitanga and care for both land and stock are central to the way we operate.

We are seeking two full‑time Shepherd Generals. These roles will form part of a wider station team and will work closely with the Station Manager to optimise farm productivity. A strong focus will be placed on pasture management and lifting stock performance, general farm work, and supporting ongoing farm infrastructure improvements. The station has clear goals focusing on lifting farm productivity and profitability significantly in the next five years.

Due to the scale and nature of the property, we are looking for motivated and capable team members with a minimum of one to two years’ sheep and beef experience. These roles include a significant dog work component, and applicants will need a solid team of sheep/cattle working dogs (ideally four to six) to operate effectively across the station’s coastal hill country terrain. Stockwork is a key focus of the role, and proven experience in this area is essential.

We are seeking keen and passionate team members, who are committed to developing their skills through ongoing professional development and the use of technology, while supporting the long‑term sustainability of the whenua and contributing to improved outcomes for shareholders.

He kōrero mōu | About you | Our ideal candidate

  • Demonstrated ability to make decisions and take responsibility for stock and pasture management.
  • Strong communication skills, be well organised and have good time management capability.
  • Confident working independently when required, while also enjoying and contributing positively as part of a team.  
  • Experience in shearing and/or handpiece work.
  • Experience in fencing and general farm maintenance.
  • A relevant agricultural qualification, or equivalent practical experience, is preferred
  • Applicants must hold a current New Zealand driver licence, and either hold or be actively working towards a New Zealand firearms licence.

He aha ngā pāinga mōu? | What's in it for you?

Joining the Owāhanga station team means becoming part of the extended Aohanga Incorporation and whānau. We offer:

  • Competitive remuneration.
  • On farm housing.
  • Opportunity to work in a supportive, progressive values-led organisation
  • Access to a wide range of outdoor and recreational pursuits, supporting a balanced rural lifestyle.

If you are looking for a role that offers real responsibility, variety, and the opportunity to be part of a progressive organisation with strong values and a supportive team, we would love to hear from you.

For more information contact Kelly on 021 560 172 or recruit@robynyoung.co.nz to learn more about the role. 

You can apply here: Shepherd General - Two Roles - RYHR - Application 

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