Calf Rearers

Join Our Whānau as a Calf Rearer

Fixed-Term Seasonal Roles | Ngāi Tahu Farming | Te Whenua Hou

Kia hiwa rā!

We are looking for multiple Calf Rearers to join our whānau for the upcoming calving season, running mid-July through to mid-October.

This year is an exciting one for Ngāi Tahu Farming, with the introduction of a brand-new calf rearing facility alongside our dairy farms at Te Whenua Hou (Eyrewell Forest, North Canterbury).

We are recruiting for two types of calf rearer roles, working together across the calf rearing journey.

Mō Te Mahi – About The Roles

Dairy Farm Calf Rearers (Birth – ~7 days and beyond for some calves)

Based on our dairy farms, you will care for calves in their earliest and most critical stage of life.

All calves are cared for from birth on farm. Beef calves will typically be reared on farm until approximately 7 days of age before transitioning to the calf rearing facility, while other calves will remain under your care on farm until weaning.

Key Responsibilities Include

• Feeding and monitoring newborn calves
• Maintaining high standards of hygiene and calf shed cleanliness
• Identifying and responding to early signs of illness
• Supporting animal health and welfare
• Preparing calves (where applicable) for transition to the rearing facility
• Monitoring growth, health, and wellbeing

Calf Rearing Facility Staff (7 days – Weaning)

Working in our new purpose-built calf rearing facility, you will continue the care of calves through to weaning.

Key Responsibilities Include

• Feeding calves in line with established programmes
• Monitoring growth, health, and wellbeing
• Maintaining excellent hygiene, cleanliness, and biosecurity
• Supporting animal health treatments
• Ensuring calves are well-developed and meet growth targets

What Makes This Opportunity Unique

• Be part of a new, modern calf rearing operation
• Work across a coordinated system from farm through to rearing facility
• Gain experience across multiple stages of calf development
• Join a values-led organisation grounded in kaitiakitaka

What We Offer

• Fixed-term seasonal work (mid-July to mid-October)
• Variable rosters
• Competitive remuneration
• Subsidised accommodation near our farms
• Support and guidance with industry-leading farming practices
• Close proximity to Oxford, Rangiora, Kaiapoi, and Christchurch
• On farm accommodation options may also be available so please advise if this is something you would require and we can discuss options

He Kōrero Mōu – About You

You’ll bring a strong work ethic and a genuine care for animal welfare, along with:

• Experience in calf rearing, dairy farming, or livestock (preferred but not essential)
• A practical, reliable, hands-on approach
• Good attention to detail and awareness of animal health
• Ability to work well in a team and follow routines
• Willingness to adapt to a busy seasonal environment
• Openness to learning tikanga and te reo Māori

Mō Mātou – About Us

These roles offer the opportunity to be part of a team that supports the sustainable growth and protection of our tribal pūtea and settlement assets for future generations.

“Mō tātou, ā, mō kā uri ā muri ake nei”

(For us and our children after us)

At Ngāi Tahu Farming, we are committed to farming sustainably and upholding our responsibilities as kaitiaki of the whenua.

Nau mai, haere mai, tauti mai!

Join us this season and be part of something new.

Please note: As part of our commitment to health, safety, and wellbeing, pre-employment checks including drug and alcohol testing will apply.