Assistant Farms Manager - Darfield

Position Description

Our Co-operative

Ata whakaarohia tō āpōpō | Imagine Tomorrow with Us

At Te Mātāpuna Fonterra, we want everyone to feel they can be themselves. Whether you're early in your career or ready for your next step, Fonterra offers a unique opportunity to grow with a global dairy co‑operative that values care, collaboration, and contribution. Owned by New Zealand dairy farmers and supported by a dedicated team, we are all working together to create a better future. Imagine tomorrow with us, where your career can grow, and you can create positive change.

He kupu mō mātou | About us

At Fonterra, our strength lies in our commitment to sustainable practices and innovation. The Nutrient Management team within Food Safety, Quality and Regulatory is dedicated to the sustainable management of nutrients from Fonterra’s manufacturing sites across New Zealand. We manage 29 Fonterra‑owned farms, focusing on the management, sale, transportation, and spreading of nutrient‑dense streams. Our vision is to achieve sustainable nutrient management on farms, adhering to Fonterra’s Global Sustainability standards and guidelines, while maximizing the value of nutrients and secondary products.

Darfield Farm, located just five minutes northwest of the Darfield township spans 950 hectares over two blocks, with 675 hectares irrigated by ten Valley pivots. Darfield Farm is renowned for exporting high‑quality pasture to supply Fonterra Shareholders via a cut carry system undertaken by local contractors. Lamb grazing compliments the system over periods when pasture harvest is not feasible, along with a small amount of school calves. The Darfield Farm employees two full‑time staff that are responsible for the day to day running of the farm and ensuring the health and safety processes are at the highest of standards.

Mō tēnei tūranga | About the Opportunity

You will play a key role in supporting the Farm Manager to ensure the successful and sustainable operation of two farms that receive factory wastewater applications. These farming systems are designed to work in harmony with wastewater processes, balancing nutrient inputs from manufacturing activities with sound farming practices. You will help uphold a proactive and high‑standard approach to health and safety throughout all operations.

When the Farm Manager is off farm, you will take charge of running the farms, managing daily operations such as setting out weekly grazing plans, and maintaining a clean and well‑organized farm.

Your responsibilities also include supporting Darfield site operations, handling general farm maintenance tasks like fencing and spraying, and safely operating a wide range of farm machinery. You will regularly check and maintain farm equipment and vehicles to ensure they are kept in excellent condition, and you will be diligent in keeping accurate animal health records. Your contribution will be essential in managing the farm’s environmental performance and supporting Fonterra’s Darfield Manufacturing site.

Mōu | About You

To be successful in this role, you will bring at least five years of hands‑on farming experience and demonstrate confidence in performing a wide range of agricultural activities safely and efficiently. As a proactive self‑starter, you will have strong skills in stock, pasture, and people management, and the ability to manage various stakeholders.

We Are Looking For Candidates Who Possess

• Excellent attention to detail and a strong sense of pride in their workmanship
• A genuine passion for farming and a determined drive to achieve success
• Extensive knowledge in mating, reproduction, and livestock care
• A commitment to maintaining the presentation of our farms, coupled with a positive attitude and sense of humour
• Relevant education or training in dairy farming will be highly regarded

This is a permanent role where you will be working an average of 50 hours per week. The successful applicant will be provided the option of accommodation on farm in a modern three‑bedroom one office house.

Ngā Aura | Our Values

At Fonterra, our values of Good Together, Better Every Day, and Every Drop Counts, are for everyone – no matter your background, identify or experience. These values guide us in delivering exceptional outcomes for our farmers, customers, communities, and each other. Discover how your values align with ours by taking our Values Quiz.

Tā mātou oati | Our Commitment to You

We care for our people globally. Our comprehensive benefits support your well‑being, development, and work‑life balance :

To learn more, visit Fonterra Careers.

Ngā Mahi | A Career of Opportunities

At Te Mātāpuna Fonterra, we are inspired by purpose and guided by our principles and values. Together, we create goodness for generations and make a global impact at a local level. As part of our Co‑operative, you are an everyday creator, imagining what Fonterra, dairy, and you can be here.

Tātou Tātou | Join Us

Does this sound good to you? Come join our whānau – bring your whole self, and let’s solve for better together.

You, me, us together, Tātou, tātou.

He Wāhi mō te Katoa | Together, we’re shaping a future of inclusion.

Inclusion is key to our Co‑operative. We’re building a team that reflects the diverse world we live in, believing it drives better decisions and innovation.

We welcome applications from all backgrounds (ethnicities, genders, identities, orientations, ages, abilities, neurotypes, cultures, religions).

Even if you don’t meet every requirement listed, we encourage you to apply; we value your potential and growth. If you face accessibility issues or need accommodations during the process, please contact your recruiter. We ensure fair participation, allowing you to be at your best. Tātou, tātou.

Applications close at midnight on Thursday 11th December 2025.

#J-18808-Ljbffr