Calf Rearer / Dairy Farm

Role overview

This is a fixed-term, seasonal calf rearing position with Ngāi Tahu Farming at Te Whenua Hou. The work runs from 27 July 2026 through 27 September 2026 and is based across dairy farms in Eyrewell Forest, North Canterbury. The role is important to making sure calves get a strong start during the calving period.

What the role involves

You will work with the dairy farm teams to look after calves throughout the busy season. The job centres on daily care, health monitoring, and maintaining high standards for welfare, hygiene, and overall farm performance.

Key duties

• Prepare and deliver calf feed according to the farm’s feeding schedule.
• Observe calves for growth progress, health changes, and general wellbeing.
• Keep calf sheds clean and hygienic at all times.
• Assist with animal health treatments and welfare-focused care.
• Move and transport calves from dairy sheds when needed.
• Spot animal health issues and raise concerns promptly.
• Support wider calf-rearing tasks as required.
• Work in coordination with the broader farm team.
• Follow farm health and safety rules and operational procedures.

What you can gain

This is a practical opportunity to build real experience in calf rearing and dairy farming. You will learn from experienced farm teams, contribute during a critical part of the farming calendar, and develop hands-on livestock husbandry skills within a large-scale operation.

Working arrangements and offer

• Seasonal fixed-term employment from 27 July 2026 to 27 September 2026.
• A 6 days on, 1 day off roster.
• Competitive pay.
• Guidance and support through industry-leading farming practices.
• The farms are close to Oxford, Rangiora, Kaiapoi, and Christchurch.
• Accommodation on the farm may be available if required; this can be discussed.

About you

You will need a strong work ethic and a genuine commitment to animal welfare. The ideal person is practical, dependable, hands-on, and able to stay focused on detail. You should be comfortable working alone or as part of a team, able to adjust to a fast-moving seasonal environment, and open to learning tikanga and te reo Māori.

About the organisation

Ngāi Tahu Farming is committed to sustainable farming and to protecting and growing tribal pūtea and settlement assets for future generations. The kaupapa is grounded in kaitiakitaka and the responsibility to care for the whenua. The role also reflects the organisation’s guiding value: “Mō tātou, ā, mō kā uri ā muri ake nei” — for us and our children after us.

Additional requirements

Pre-employment screening will be carried out as part of the organisation’s health, safety, and wellbeing commitment. This includes drug and alcohol testing.

Invitation

Kia hiwa rā, and nau mai, haere mai, tauti mai — this is an opportunity to join a values-led team and contribute during the upcoming calving season.