Head Shepherd - Wharekopae Farm

About the role

This is a role where you can step up, be trusted, and make a real difference, while being supported by a strong team around you. As Head Shepherd at Wharekōpae Station, you'll have a key role in how the farm runs day to day. You'll help plan stock work, organise people and jobs, and make sure everything is done safely and well. You'll get variety - one day you might be mustering or doing animal health work, the next helping with breeding plans, pasture decisions, or farm records. You'll use both your practical skills and your judgement. You won't be expected to do everything alone. You'll work closely with the Farm Manager and other staff who value teamwork, clear communication, and looking out for each other. You'll be supported to lead on the day, share knowledge, and build confidence in your leadership style. This role is a great step forward if you want more responsibility without losing the hands-on work, and if you want to grow your skills in a farm that cares about people, animals, and the land. You'll also have access to training and development, so you can keep learning - whether that's improving stock skills, building leadership confidence, or using new technology that makes the job safer and easier. Pāmu Landcorp Farming Limited is a State-Owned Enterprise with over 110 farms across New Zealand. Our purpose is to lead the delivery of innovative and sustainable agriculture solutions for future generations. THE FARM Wharekopae Station has 22000 su across 2120 ha effective. The farm focuses predominantly on breeding and finishing stock (both cattle & sheep) including stock from other Pāmu properties nearby. Wharekopae operates across two separate (approx) 1000 ha properties offering a unique opportunity to demonstrate farming excellence. ABOUT YOU This role will suit you if you've already been working in farming and are ready for your next step, or you already have experience in a similar role. You're comfortable working with stock, planning jobs, and helping others get the work done safely and well. You enjoy being part of a team and take pride in doing things properly. You lead by example, stay calm when things get busy, and communicate clearly with the people around you. You'll bring: Experience working with sheep and cattle in a commercial farming environment Confidence in animal health work, stock handling, and mustering A team of working dogs (ideally 5-7) The ability to organise daily work and adjust plans when needed Clear, respectful communication and a team-first approach Comfort with farm records and technology, or the confidence to learn quickly A strong focus on health, safety, and animal welfare A restricted or full driver licence We're proud to have a supportive and inclusive culture at Pāmu. If this role sounds like a good fit for you, but you don't meet every requirement, we still encourage you to apply.

Benefits

Additional Information

Competitive salary Health and life insurance Accommodation provided Great location - situated 50 minutes from Gisborne.

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