Shepherd General - Riverside

Massey University’s Massey Agricultural & Horticultural Enterprises (MAHE) is seeking a Shepherd General at Riverside, our flagship sheep and beef property in the Wairarapa.

This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a high-performing commercial farm while supporting world-class teaching, research, and industry engagement. This is a full-time, permanent position.

Riverside Farm is owned by the Sydney Campbell Foundation. Massey has leased the land since 1978 under a 99-year term with right of renewal.

The farm consists of two blocks:

• The main unit (650ha), located approximately 11km north-west of Masterton, bounded by SH2 and Mikimiki Road.
• The Mikimiki block (75ha), located approximately 6km west of SH2.

About the Team/Service/Location

As the Riverside Shepherd General, you will assist the Farm Manager in delivering farm operations, including production, research support, health and safety, and farm presentation.

You’ll work closely with researchers, students, and the Farm Manager to ensure Riverside remains a centre of excellence for innovation in pastoral farming.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in all sheep and beef farming operations to a high commercial and research standard.
• Support the delivery of farm performance and productivity goals within MAHE and Massey University.
• Maintain excellent communication with researchers, students, and stakeholders.
• Represent Riverside professionally at field days, teaching sessions, and industry events.
• Assist the Farm Manager to maintain the farm as a high-quality, well-presented Massey University showpiece.

About you

This role is ideal for a forward-thinking person who thrives at the intersection of commercial farming and research, and who takes pride in maintaining high standards and driving productivity.

Preferred qualifications include:

• National Diploma in Agribusiness Management, and/or
• Diploma in Agriculture

You will also bring a positive, team-oriented attitude and commitment to MAHE and Massey’s values, along with a full New Zealand Driver’s Licence.

What’s in it for you?

Massey University is a world-leading institution committed to being a Tiriti-led organisation, supporting innovation, industry partnership, student development, and excellence in agriculture.

Riverside is a key component of our teaching and research ecosystem, offering the successful candidate an opportunity to be part of something truly impactful for Aotearoa and global farming systems.

For further information please contact Scott Shadbolt, Farm Manager, Riverside, on 021 447 229.