Assistant Farm Manager - Aurora Dairies

Candidates without current full New Zealand working rights cannot be considered for this role.

About Aurora Dairies

Aurora Dairies is committed to a long-term investment in the Dairy Industry and operates a portfolio of 57 dairy farms, 7 dairy farms in New Zealand's South Island, as well as 50 dairy farms across south-eastern Australia.

Aurora relies on local expertise to operate and improve the productivity of its dairy farms by employing and developing great people, investing in technology, farm development strategies, and supporting infrastructure. Aurora’s operating culture prioritises the health and safety of its employees - inclusive of a strong work-life balance, animal welfare and seeks to positively contribute to the environment and communities in which Aurora operates.

Aurora Dairies are currently seeking an Assistant Farm Manager for our Ardlui Dairy Farm. The farm is located 15 minutes from Dunsandal and 45 minutes from Christchurch in Canterbury. The farm is approximately 400ha fully irrigated with pivot and fixed grid irrigation and utilizes Halter collars for the herd.

Ardlui is currently peak milking 1,100 cows through a 54-bale Read rotary shed with Protrack in-shed management along with cup removers and in-shed feed systems. Roster is 6-on-2-off during calving and 5-on-2-off the rest of the season. 

This role begins in June 2026, and accommodation will be provided to the successful applicant and there could be opportunities for employment for your partner, if required.

This is an excellent career opportunity offering:

• A highly competitive salary and career progression opportunities.
• Work-life balance with a maximum average of 50 work hours per week with a variable roster.
• Being part of a large scale dairy business that values all of its people, animals and the environment.
• Support to pursue training and education opportunities.
• A remuneration package based on level of relevant skills and experience.

Reporting to the Farm Manager, you will:

• Ensure safe operations across the property through the implementation of our Safety Management System.
• Supporting the farm manager as second in charge.
• Exhibit sound and accurate judgement to ensure the highest standards of animal health and welfare.
• Herd management and nutrition, including calving, hospital herd care, AI/mating planning, dairy shed work and more.
• Maintain accurate stock, treatment, and feeding records.
• Operate and maintain plant and equipment.
• Implement sustainable farming practices.
• Adhere to company policies and safe work procedures.

The desired skills and experience for this opportunity are:

• Past dairy industry experience is desirable for this position (3+ years experience as a Herd Manager or Assistant Farm Manager).
• A proven record in pasture management and high milk quality, with feed budgeting skills.
• You will be technologically minded and understand computer systems.
• Committed to ensuring a safe workplace.
• Reliable and punctual.
• Good work ethic and positive attitude.
• Team player.

What makes Aurora Dairies unique?

• A true safety and animal welfare focus across the entire company.
• A strong focus on fatigue management and work hours. We pride ourselves on work-life balance.
• Opportunities to grow your career both on the farm or with broader horizons through professional development and other training opportunities. Learning and development of our people is a strong focus at all levels of the organisation.
• An organisation that has made commitments to sustainability and is putting that into action.
• Being part of an organisation of which integrity, trust and collaboration are their core values.

Our successful applicant will be required to undergo a comprehensive pre-employment process including criminal record checks, financial checks, psychometric assessments, a medical assessment and other relevant assessments to confirm suitability for the role.

If you have a passion for dairy and agriculture and are looking for your next step in a progressive dairy company, please submit your updated resume and cover letter as soon as possible as applications will be assessed as they received. 

For further information, please contact us at [email protected] Email applications cannot be accepted.

Please note, we may only make contact with you if your profile is suitable to the requirements of this position. Candidates without current full New Zealand working rights cannot be considered for this role.