Farms Assistant - Longburn Farms

About the Company At Te Matapuna Fonterra, we are dedicated to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels comfortable being themselves. As a global dairy co-operative owned by New Zealand dairy farmers, we emphasize care, collaboration, and contribution. Our goal is to work together to forge a better future, and we invite you to imagine tomorrow with us, where your career can flourish and you can make a positive impact. About the Role Located in Longburn, just a short drive from Palmerston North, Longburn Farms features two productive dairy farms and two dedicated support blocks. Thornton Park Farm includes a flat, 200-hectare milking platform and an adjacent 80-hectare support block along the scenic Manawatu River. Innesmoor Farm, adjacent to Thornton Park, encompasses 130 hectares of flat land where we milk 350 cows in a modern 32-a-side herringbone shed, complemented by a 50-hectare support block. We are currently seeking a permanent employee for our Fonterra farms, offering an average of 50 hours per week and competitive monthly remuneration. You will report directly to our Farm Manager and primarily be responsible for milking 600 cows using a renovated 50-bale rotary shed equipped with advanced technologies, including automatic drafting and in-shed feeding systems. Occasionally, you will assist with milking operations at Innesmoor Farm. In addition to milking, your responsibilities will include feeding calves, maintaining break fences, performing weed control, general farm maintenance, operating tractors, and assisting with other essential tasks. You will play a vital role in maintaining our farms, vehicles, and sheds, ensuring that all property improvements are managed efficiently and on schedule. You will also contribute to strategic on-farm decisions, support management with animal health and welfare requirements, and maintain accurate records related to stock and grazing activities. Compliance with the Health & Safety in Employment Act and environmental standards will be crucial aspects of your role. The successful candidate will be a drive-in employee and will be provided with a housing allowance. About You We are looking for a proactive and motivated individual who thrives both independently and as part of a team. Your enthusiasm for learning and personal growth will set you apart. We value confidence in tackling tasks of any size and encourage you to ask questions to further your understanding. To be considered for this position, you should ideally possess: - Previous farming experience (preferred but not essential) - A positive, can-do attitude - A full driver’s license - Strong communication and interpersonal skills - A willingness to embrace technology and digital tools We provide comprehensive training opportunities, both internally and through external development programs, to help you succeed as a farmer. If you are excited about this opportunity but do not meet all the criteria, we still encourage you to apply. Our commitment to cultivating talent and fostering a diverse workforce means we value applicants with transferable skills. Join Us Does this opportunity resonate with you? We invite you to join our team and bring your authentic self as we work together to achieve better outcomes. Applications will close at midnight on Sunday, January 11, 2026. We look forward to hearing from you.