Job Opportunities in New Zealand 2026: Dairy Farm Assistant Role at Eyrewell Dairy

Build a Rewarding Farming Career with Pāmu (Landcorp Farming Limited)

New Zealand is globally recognized for its world-class dairy industry, offering stable employment, modern farming systems, and strong career progression for motivated agricultural workers. Among the most attractive opportunities available today is the Dairy Farm Assistant role at Eyrewell Dairy, operated by Pāmu (the brand name of Landcorp Farming Limited).

This position combines hands-on dairy farming, excellent employee benefits, and on-farm housing, making it ideal for individuals who want to grow their farming career while enjoying a high quality of life in rural New Zealand.

With a competitive salary, health and life insurance, KiwiSaver contributions, and a warm two-bedroom home provided, this role offers both professional security and personal comfort.

Why Choose Dairy Farming Careers in New Zealand?

Dairy farming is one of New Zealand’s most important industries, providing long-term employment opportunities for people who enjoy practical work, teamwork, and working outdoors. Roles such as Dairy Farm Assistant are in high demand due to expanding operations, advanced technology, and a strong focus on animal welfare.

Key advantages of dairy farm jobs in New Zealand include:

  • Stable, year-round employment
  • Clear career progression pathways
  • Modern milking systems and equipment
  • Employer-provided housing in many roles
  • Strong emphasis on health, safety, and wellbeing

For those who are committed, reliable, and eager to learn, dairy farming offers a career—not just a job.

About Eyrewell Dairy

A Modern, Large-Scale Dairy Operation

Eyrewell Dairy is located in West Eyreton, approximately 10 minutes from Oxford and 25 minutes from Rangiora, in the Canterbury region. This prime rural location offers easy access to outdoor recreation, community amenities, and nearby towns while maintaining a peaceful farming lifestyle.

The farm spans 450 effective hectares and milks approximately 950 cows through a 60-bale rotary milking shed, a modern system designed to improve efficiency, animal comfort, and staff safety. Eyrewell Dairy also rears its own heifer replacement calves, ensuring long-term herd sustainability.

The Opportunity: Dairy Farm Assistant

The Dairy Farm Assistant plays a vital role in the daily operations of Eyrewell Dairy. Working closely with the wider farm team, you’ll support production goals while maintaining high standards of animal welfare, environmental care, and workplace safety.

This is a hands-on role suited to someone who enjoys physical work, takes pride in doing things well, and wants to build a long-term career in dairy farming.

Key Responsibilities of the Dairy Farm Assistant

1. Milking Operations

You will assist with daily milking routines using a rotary milking system, ensuring:

  • Calm and safe handling of cows
  • Clean and hygienic milking practices
  • Accurate monitoring of animal health during milking

Milking is central to farm productivity, and attention to detail is essential.

2. Animal Health and Welfare

Animal wellbeing is a top priority. Your duties will include:

  • Monitoring cow condition and behavior
  • Assisting with calving and calf rearing
  • Identifying and reporting health issues early
  • Supporting treatments as directed

Strong animal welfare standards are embedded in every aspect of the role.

3. Feeding and Stock Management

You’ll help with:

  • Feeding stock according to farm plans
  • Managing pasture and supplementary feed
  • Supporting seasonal feeding adjustments

Proper nutrition directly impacts production and animal health.

4. Effluent, Spraying, and Fencing

To support environmental sustainability, you’ll assist with:

  • Effluent management and irrigation systems
  • Spraying operations (training provided)
  • Fencing and general farm maintenance

These tasks ensure compliance with environmental and safety standards.

5. Teamwork and Mentoring

As you grow in the role, you’ll be encouraged to:

  • Take initiative in daily tasks
  • Support junior or new staff
  • Contribute ideas for continuous improvement

Eyrewell Dairy values collaboration and shared responsibility.

Training, Development, and Career Growth

One of the strongest advantages of working with Pāmu is its commitment to training and professional development. You’ll receive full support to build your skills, confidence, and leadership potential.

Career pathways may include progression to:

  • Senior Dairy Assistant
  • Assistant Farm Manager
  • Farm Manager
  • Specialist roles within livestock or farm systems

Training is ongoing and tailored to individual goals.

Working Culture and Values at Pāmu

Pāmu’s workplace culture is guided by strong values that shape how teams work together every day:

  • Grounded – practical, realistic, and connected to the land
  • Genuine – honest, respectful, and authentic
  • Bold – open to innovation and improvement
  • Shoulder-to-Shoulder – teamwork and mutual support

Employees are encouraged to speak up, learn continuously, and support one another.

Benefits and Remuneration Package

Competitive Salary and Financial Benefits

  • Competitive salary package
  • Up to 4% KiwiSaver matching
  • Health and life insurance
  • Enhanced parental leave benefits

On-Farm Housing

One of the standout features of this role is the warm two-bedroom home, which includes:

  • Heat pump
  • Attached garage
  • Comfortable living space suitable for individuals or couples

Housing is provided as part of the employment package, significantly reducing living costs.

Work-Life Balance and Leave

  • Extra day of leave over Christmas
  • Ongoing support for wellbeing
  • Access to training and career development programs

Who We’re Looking For

Skills and Experience

Ideally, you’ll bring:

  • Experience in dairy farming or a strong desire to build one
  • Good communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and in a team
  • A proactive and reliable work ethic
  • Commitment to animal welfare and health & safety
  • A current NZ restricted or full driver’s licence

Personal Attributes

Successful candidates are typically:

  • Motivated and hands-on
  • Willing to learn and take initiative
  • Supportive of team members
  • Physically fit and resilient

Eligibility and Recruitment Requirements

To be considered for this role, applicants must:

  • Have unrestricted legal rights to work in New Zealand
  • Be available for an in-person interview
  • Pass a drug and alcohol test
  • Undergo a criminal background check

Please note: temporary work visas are not accepted for this permanent position.

Application Process and Key Dates

  • Application deadline: Friday, 1 February 2026
  • Interviews will be conducted as applications are received

Contact for Enquiries

Early applications are encouraged.

Living and Working in Canterbury, New Zealand

West Eyreton offers a relaxed rural lifestyle with access to:

  • Outdoor recreation
  • Local schools and services
  • Nearby towns such as Oxford and Rangiora

Canterbury is known for its strong farming communities, scenic landscapes, and high quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is previous dairy experience required?

Experience is preferred, but motivated applicants with a strong interest in dairy farming are encouraged to apply.

Is accommodation included?

Yes, a two-bedroom home with garage and heat pump is provided.

Is this a permanent position?

Yes, this is a permanent, full-time role.

Are visas sponsored?

No, applicants must already have the legal right to work in New Zealand.

What training is provided?

Full on-the-job training and ongoing development opportunities are offered.

What are the working hours?

Hours vary depending on the season, typical of dairy farming roles.

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