Farm Manager – Hawkswood, North Canterbury

  • Hawkswood 1872 Limited
  • May 27, 2026

Job Description

Hawkswood is a well‑established 2,300ha sheep and beef breeding property located just north of Cheviot. The farm includes 1,500ha of extensive scrubby hill country and 770ha of flat to rolling land, running approximately 6,500 stock units:

  • 3,500 Romney ewes
  • 900 replacement hoggets
  • 160 Angus breeding cows
  • 40 heifer replacements

A long‑serving and highly respected team member is moving on, creating an excellent opportunity for someone ready to step into a Farm Manager role and take responsibility for the day‑to‑day running of a well‑organised, productive operation. This is a genuine chance to lead, contribute, and continue building on the strong foundations already in place and continue to seek ways to improve the farm.

Key Responsibilities:

The Farm Manager will work closely with the owners and be responsible for:

  • Preparing the annual cashflow budget alongside the owners
  • Developing annual management plans (animal health, key dates, paddock plans)
  • Full responsibility for livestock management - genetic selections, animal health, feed planning
  • Managing paddock rotations, fertiliser planning, and cropping programmes
  • Coordinating all livestock contractors — shearing, tailing, scanning, vets, stock agents, etc.
  • Managing part‑time labour as required
  • Participating in quarterly management meetings with full financial transparency
  • Recording farm data using the Resolution app
  • Overseeing general farm maintenance

About You:

We are seeking someone who brings:

  • At least five years’ farming experience in a similar role or Stock Manager role
  • A capable team of working dogs
  • New Zealand permanent residency
  • A current NZ driver’s licence
  • Available to start July/August

You’ll be someone who enjoys responsibility, communicates well, and takes pride in running a tidy, well‑functioning farm.

What We Offer:

  • A warm, modern three‑bedroom, two‑bathroom home with an excellent outlook
  • A competitive salary package
  • The opportunity to step into a leadership role with strong support from the owners

Hawkswood is located on State Highway 1, approximately 15 minutes north of Cheviot, with Kaikōura 45 minutes to the north and Christchurch 1.5 hours to the south. Cheviot offers schooling, services, and a friendly rural community.

How to Apply:

Please email a brief introduction letter and your CV, including two references with phone numbers, to:

Jack Macfarlane: 📧 hawkswood2017@gmail.com 📞 027 6699330

Applications close: 19th June.

You’re welcome to get in touch for more information or chat to the current Farm Manager – Rey Reimink 0273361166. We look forward to hearing from you.

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