Calf Rearing Positions 3 Roles

Seasonal Dairy Farm Positions – Calving Season (3 Roles)

Location: Waitaki Valley (Otago / Canterbury Border, New Zealand)
Start Date: Around 20 July 2026
Duration: 8–10 weeks

We are a progressive dairy farming business in the scenic Waitaki Valley, running two farms with a total of 2,300 cows. We are currently seeking three motivated and reliable people to assist during our busy calving season.

This opportunity is ideal for a couple and a friend or three friends travelling together, especially those looking to experience New Zealand farming life while saving money.

About the Roles

You will be primarily involved in calf rearing, with some general farm duties as part of a supportive wider team.

Responsibilities include:

• Training calves and feeding milk twice daily (main responsibilities)
• Monitoring calf health and carrying out basic animal care (main responsibilities)
• Assisting with milking and general farm operations
• Collecting newborn calves from paddocks

We rear:

• ~500 calves on our larger (1,600 cow) farm (2 calf rearers)
• ~200 calves on our second (700 cow) farm (1 calf rearer)

You will work alongside us and our experienced team of 9, with full training and support provided.

Hours & Roster

• Roster: 6 days on, 1 day off
• Hours: 30–60 hours per week depending on calf numbers
• Start time: Around 7:00am daily
• 1st week is generally shorter; peak weeks can be longer
• A longer lunch break is typically available during the day

Pay & Benefits

• Pay Rate: $24.50/hour + 8% holiday pay
• Accommodation: $140 per person/week
• Furnished 6-bedroom, 2-bathroom house (shared with 3 others)
• Electricity split between 6 people
• Gumboots and overalls provided

What We’re Looking For

• Good level of physical fitness and strength
• Patience and care when working with young animals
• Ability to commit for at least 8 weeks
• A reasonable level of English
• Driver’s licence and own vehicle is essential (remote location)

Helpful (but not essential) skills:

• Driving a manual vehicle
• Riding a motorbike
• Backing a trailer

Location & Lifestyle

We are located:

• 15 minutes from Kurow
• 45 minutes from Oamaru

The Waitaki Valley offers stunning landscapes, outdoor activities, and a unique rural lifestyle. This role has historically been very popular with backpackers, many of whom enjoy the experience and save well during their stay and return regularly for visiting us and “their” calves.

How to Apply

Please send:

• Your CV(s) (together if applying as a group)
• Your level of English

We look forward to welcoming enthusiastic team members to our farm for the calving season!