Block Manager

  • Rural Directions
  • Oct 16, 2026

Job Description

Join Hills Creek Station to lead a great team, contribute to long-term farm development and build your future in farm management.

  • Enjoy a great rural lifestyle in Central Otago.
  • Develop your skills across a large scale and diverse farming operation.
  • Contribute to strategic planning and long-term farm performance.

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

Your Role

Hills Creek Station is seeking an experienced Block Manager to lead day-to-day farm operations, livestock and pasture management, team leadership and ongoing property development. Reporting to the General Manager, you will lead three Shepherds and work closely with the Farm Consultant to achieve production and financial targets.

The role offers a mix of operational management and strategic development, including livestock performance, pasture renewal, infrastructure upgrades, budgeting, health and safety, and environmental management. It is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Stock Manager or 2IC ready to step into a broader leadership role and contribute to the continued success of a large-scale farming operation.

What You’ll Bring:

  • Strong livestock, pasture and grazing management skills, including animal health, welfare and breeding.
  • Proven leadership, coaching and delegation skills.
  • Proficiency in farm management systems, record-keeping and reporting.
  • Relevant agricultural qualifications and/or practical farming experience.
  • Full New Zealand driver’s licence and eligibility to work in New Zealand.
  • A capable team of working dogs suited to the property.
  • Practical machinery operation and general maintenance skills.
  • Strong planning, organisation and problem-solving abilities.
  • Understanding of farm planning, budgeting and financial performance.

What’s on Offer

  • Large-scale breeding, finishing and cropping operation.
  • Help deliver the Board’s strategic plan and shape the future of the property.
  • Be a key member of NZ Pasture’s management team with exposure to professional governance.
  • Play a significant role in a targeted farm development programme.
  • Opportunity for internal mentoring and support tailored to suit the appointee.
  • Demonstrate your ability to ‘think like an owner’ when managing expenditure.
  • Lead and develop an established team of Shepherds.
  • Partner work and shepherding opportunities available.
  • Opportunity to leverage learnings and build a pathway to full farm management or your well-rounded skillset back to the family farm.
  • Located in the heart of Central Otago, offering a great rural lifestyle.

About Hills Creek Station

Owned by NZ Pastures Limited, Hills Creek and Styx Stations are large-scale farming operations offering diverse breeding, finishing and cropping opportunities across more than 10,000 ha combined. The properties benefit from complementary seasonal conditions and ongoing investment in pasture renewal, lucerne establishment, water infrastructure and targeted development programmes.

 A newly appointed General Manager provides overall leadership and strategic direction, ensuring both stations operate as a coordinated, profitable and sustainable business. The owners are committed to being good employers, investing in their properties and providing strong operational and professional support to their team.             

 

Hit APPLY or call Rural Directions on 06 871 0450 for a confidential chat.

Applications close Sunday 8th November 2026, APPLY NOW

Know someone who’d be a great fit?
Nominate a Mate and you could receive a $150 voucher if they’re successfully placed!
https://www.ruraldirections.co.nz/nominate-a-mate

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

 

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