Calf Rearers / Dairy Farm

Join Our Whānau as a Calf Rearer

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

Kia hiwa rā!

We are looking for Calf Rearers to join our whānau for the upcoming calving season, from 27 July to 27 September 2026. Based across our dairy farms at Te Whenua Hou (Eyrewell Forest, North Canterbury), these roles play a vital part in ensuring our calves receive the very best start in life.

Working alongside our dairy farm teams, you'll be involved in the day-to-day care and management of calves during the busy calving season, helping maintain high standards of animal welfare, hygiene, and farm performance.

Key Responsibilities Include

• Feeding calves in line with established programmes
• Monitoring calf growth, health, and wellbeing
• Maintaining excellent hygiene and cleanliness standards within calf sheds
• Supporting animal health treatments and welfare practices
• Collecting and transporting calves from dairy sheds where required
• Identifying and reporting animal health concerns
• Assisting with general calf rearing operations
• Working closely with the wider farm teams
• Following all health and safety requirements and farm procedures

What Makes This Opportunity Unique

• Gain valuable hands-on experience in calf rearing and dairy farming
• Work alongside experienced and supportive farm teams
• Play an important role during the busy calving season
• Join a values-led organisation grounded in kaitiakitaka
• Develop practical livestock husbandry skills in a large-scale farming operation

What We Offer

• Fixed-term seasonal work from 27 July to 27 September 2026
• 6 days on, 1 day off roster
• Competitive remuneration
• Support and guidance with industry-leading farming practices
• Close proximity to Oxford, Rangiora, Kaiapoi, and Christchurch
• On-farm accommodation options may also be available. Please let us know if this is something you 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 independently and as part of a team
• 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.