Sheep Farmer Jobs in New Zealand

Sheep Farmer jobs in New Zealand are among the country’s most traditional and essential roles in agriculture. Workers in this field help manage large flocks for meat, wool, and breeding, supporting one of New Zealand’s strongest export industries. This hands-on outdoor job is perfect for people who enjoy physical work, rural living, and working with livestock in open landscapes.

Responsibilities

• Feed, herd, and care for sheep daily, ensuring welfare standards align with workplace liability insurance guidelines.
• Assist with lambing seasons, breeding programs, and basic reproductive management.
• Carry out shearing, crutching, wool preparation, and fleece handling as required.
• Repair fences, maintain pastures, manage water systems, and clean sheds to keep farm facilities in good condition.
• Monitor animal health closely, record observations using simple digital logs or farm tools that may integrate with payroll software, and report any signs of illness to farm managers or veterinarians.
• Follow documented farm processes that support compliance for workers employed under the accredited employer work visa pathway.

Requirements

• Prior experience with livestock or a strong interest in sheep farming; completing online certification or agricultural training courses is an advantage.
• Physically fit and comfortable working in outdoor environments across all seasons.
• Knowledge of farm safety standards, animal handling techniques, and basic biosecurity procedures.
• Ability to work independently across large farmland or collaborate with a team during busy periods like lambing and shearing.
• Basic understanding of administrative tasks such as banking setup, international money transfer, or tax return filing, especially useful for newly arrived workers adjusting to life in New Zealand.

Benefits

• Competitive hourly pay with accommodation options available on many rural farms.
• Gain experience in one of New Zealand’s biggest agricultural sectors with opportunities for long-term or permanent roles.
• Clear paths for career growth, from general farmhand to senior shepherd or farm manager.
• Work in scenic rural areas surrounded by supportive farm teams and expansive landscapes.
• Some employers may offer private medical insurance, life insurance, or other worker benefits, along with general guidance resources such as an immigration lawyer for those needing immigration information.

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