Tokoroa - Farms Manager - South Waikato
Whaia to ara whakamua i konei | Where to next? Imagine tomorrow—here at Fonterra
Here at Te Matapuna Fonterra, we believe in nurturing talent and providing opportunities for growth. If you’re applying for the next step in your career journey here at Fonterra, then you’ve come to the right place.Whether you’re looking to deepen your expertise, broaden your horizons, or take on a new challenge, we’re here to support your progress. We’ll help you bring your best and be at your best—because your growth is our growth.
He kupu mo matou | About us
At Fonterra, our strength lies in our commitment to sustainable practices and innovation. Our Nutrient Management team, part of Food Safety, Quality and Regulatory is dedicated to the sustainable management of nutrients from Fonterra’s manufacturing sites across New Zealand.
We manage 29 Fonterra-owned farms, focusing on the management, sale, transportation, and spreading of nutrient-dense streams. Our vision is to achieve sustainable nutrient management on farms, adhering to Fonterra’s Global Sustainability standards and guidelines, while maximizing the value of nutrients and secondary products.
Mo tenei turanga | About the opportunity
We are seeking a Farm Manager to join the Central North Island Farms Team in the South Waikato. These farms are located between Putaruru and Tokoroa and consist of three ex forestry blocks, Pinedale 1,350ha, Sneddon 850ha and Waratah 650ha. With 1,200ha effective with an additional 150ha under development, these farms are known for exporting high-quality pasture to Fonterra Shareholders via a cut carry system managed by local contractors.Lamb grazing at Waratah compliments the system.
This is a pivotal leadership role where you’ll support our local manufacturing sites by managing land where wastewater and high-strength nutrients are applied. Reporting to our CNI Regional Farms Operations Manager, you will lead and optimise irrigation capacity and nutrient spreading activities within environmental and regulatory limits.
Key Responsibilities
As the Farm Manager, you will:- Sustainability: Drive sustainable and profitable farming operations by achieving sustainability targets across multiple farm blocks, ensuring compliance with Fonterra’s standards and industry best practices.
- Financial Management: Support farm financials, contribute to business planning for capital replacement plans and budgets, and manage significant farm assets.
- Leadership: Lead and motivate teams to lift performance, identify innovative commercial opportunities, and manage stakeholder relationships with NZ Manufacturing, local farmers, external contractors, and rural service professionals.
- Collaboration: Work closely with irrigation and environmental teams and manage contractor relationships to meet operational objectives.
- Health & Safety: Lead hazard identification, risk assessment processes, and incident management, ensuring compliance with safety systems.
About you | Moe koe
You’re a self-starter with a strong background in pasture management and a passion for learning and growth. You bring:- A tertiary qualification in Agribusiness (preferred, but not essential).
- At least 10 years of practical farming experience, including 5 years in farm management roles in large-scale operations.
- Proven ability to manage multiple farms, strong stakeholder management, and experience with people management and team leadership.
- In-depth knowledge of large-scale farm management, farm financials, health and safety systems, and farm-related software programs.
- A focus on delivering sustainable performance, effective collaboration, and driving meaningful change.
- A strong commitment to health and safety.
This is a permanent role, working an average of 50 hours per week. The successful applicant will receive a housing allowance as part of their remuneration package. Farm vehicles and machinery are modern and in excellent condition.
This is an exciting opportunity to lead one of Fonterra’s largest farming portfolios, driving sustainable practices and innovation. You will play a crucial role in shaping the future of nutrient management and contribute to Fonterra’s global sustainability goals.
Nga Uara | Our ValuesWe live our values every day—Good Together, Better Every Day, and Every Drop Counts.
They are for everyone and guide how we show up for each other, our farmers, and our communities.
Tatou Tatou | Continue your journey with usYou’re already part of our whanau—now imagine what’s next. Take the next step in your Te Matapuna Fonterra journey and apply today.
Applications close at midnight Sunday 27th July 2025