Are you physically fit, eager to learn, and ready to take on a new challenge in New Zealand’s thriving dairy industry? We are hiring Dairy Farm Assistant for a well-established farm in Canterbury. This is an excellent opportunity for entry-level candidates looking to gain hands-on farming experience in a professional, supportive environment with accommodation provided and training included.
About Company:
The Regions Immigration Law and Recruitment is a trusted recruitment partner connecting skilled workers with high-quality employers across New Zealand’s primary industries. Our client in Canterbury operates a progressive dairy farm, committed to sustainability, animal welfare, and best-practice operations. Successful candidates will work directly with experienced farm managers and become part of a close-knit agricultural team.
Responsibilities for Dairy Farm Assistant:
Feed Production Management
- Assist in feed planning and implementation
- Help manage weeds, pests, and pasture quality
- Apply fertilizers and assist in implementing irrigation practices
Milking Operations
- Operate milking systems while maintaining hygiene and milk quality
- Ensure all aspects of the milking process meet grade-free standards
- Monitor somatic cell counts and maintain plant hygiene
Effluent Management
- Operate and maintain farm effluent systems per compliance standards
- Maintain accurate records of effluent use and report any issues
Animal Care
- Support the animal health program under supervision
- Assist with calving, wintering, and calf rearing to ensure herd quality
- Maintain herd records and report unwell animals to the manager
Farm Business Support
- Contribute to the farm business plan and team goals
- Help manage the maintenance of farm machinery and infrastructure
- Adhere to all company policies and operational procedures
Health & Safety Compliance
- Wear all required PPE and follow health and safety protocols
- Attend safety training and report any unsafe practices
Environmental Stewardship
- Assist in applying best environmental practices as per farm guidelines
Requirements for Dairy Farm Assistant:
- Physically fit and willing to work outdoors in all weather
- Must reside on-site in farm accommodation (no pets or drive-in options)
- Driver licence is mandatory
- Must pass a pre-employment drug test
- Clean criminal record
- Willingness to travel between Canterbury and West Coast if needed (travel expenses covered)
- No prior dairy experience required—full training provided
Skills and Knowledge Desired:
- Strong work ethic and willingness to learn
- Team-oriented with good communication skills
- Basic understanding of machinery and tools (training available)
- Attention to detail in record-keeping and hygiene
- Reliable and able to follow instructions
Benefits Package:
- Guaranteed minimum of 30 hours per week
- $24/hour (industry standard rate for entry-level dairy roles)
- On-site accommodation provided (shared or private, subject to availability)
- Travel costs covered if relocation between farm locations is required
- Full training for all tasks, including milking and animal care
- Opportunity to build a long-term career in the New Zealand dairy industry
