Skip to main content
Posted 30 July, 2026

Farms Manager

Ag Assist Limited
Whanganui, MWT, NZ Full Time
Reference: 39b69b4b6a13f3b4

Job Description

# Farms ManagerPahiatua, Manawatu Whanganui## DescriptionOur Co-operativeAta whakaarohia tō āpōpō | Imagine Tomorrow with UsAt 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 usFonterra operates an extensive network of dairy and dry stock farms across New Zealand, supporting our processing sites through the sustainable and environmentally responsible application of factory wastewater. These farms play a critical role in demonstrating best-practice land, water and environmental management.Mō tēnei tūranga | About the OpportunityAs our Pahiatua Farms manager you will be responsible for our farms in the Pahiatua region, working closely with on-farm irrigation teams to ensure daily wastewater application is managed effectively and compliantly.You will oversee:Two dairy platforms managed with Halter172ha milking approximately 240 cows during peak, OAD144ha milking approximately 240 cows during peak, currently OAD with a potential to move to twice a day18ha support blockSignificant grass silage production, with surplus made and sold to neighbouring farmsWe are seeking a forward-thinking, proactive and technologically capable Farm Manager who is passionate about sustainability, productivity and continuous improvement.In this role, you will:Provide operational leadership across two dairy farms and a support blockWork collaboratively with Fonterra irrigation operators on daily wastewater applicationPlay a key role in shaping the future direction of the farmsManage contractors, partners and stakeholders across multiple workstreamsEnsure farm operations align with strategic, environmental and commercial objectivesLead, mentor and develop a team of four permanent staffManage operational budgets and reportingCarry out and oversee farm maintenanceMaintain accurate farm and compliance recordsChampion a high-performing Health & Safety cultureEnsure farming practices meet consent and regulatory requirementsHealth, Safety and Environmental stewardship is critical to this role. Alongside managing wastewater application, you will actively identify and implement farm improvement initiatives while driving a strong health and safety focus.Start date flexible between 1st June and 1st July 2026Mōu | About YouYou’re a motivated self-starter with demonstrated farm management experience, or the ambition and capability to take the next step, complemented by strong technical expertise and excellent people skills.You’ll be confident working in a collaborative environment and skilled at building strong working relationships—particularly with irrigation and environmental specialists supporting day-to-day operations.Key Attributes:Proven experience leading and developing farm teamsExceptional pasture management and feed budgeting capabilityStrong stock management skills and commitment to best-practice animal welfareAbility to safely and competently operate a range of farm machineryA visible leader in Health & SafetyStrong understanding of working within resource consent requirementsExcellent attention to detail and pride in farm presentationA positive attitude and good sense of humourAgribusiness or Dairy Farming qualifications will be highly regardedNgā Aura | Our ValuesAt 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 QuizTā mātou oati | Our Commitment to YouWe care for our people globally. Our comprehensive benefits support your well-being, development, and work-life balance:Fair and equitable payHealth and well-being programs (medical, mental health support)Professional development opportunitiesCareer growth supportWork-life balance options (flexible/hybrid working where possible)Employee recognitionSupport for community involvement and cultural connectionTo learn more, visit Fonterra CareersNgā Mahi | A Career of OpportunitiesAt 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 UsDoes 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 Sunday 3rd May #J-18808-Ljbffr

Sign up for Job Alerts