[ref. r2703201] Head Shepherd - Rangitaiki Station

The Opportunity**

We’re looking for a skilled and motivated Head Shepherd to join our tight-knit team on Rangitaiki Station. This is a key leadership role where you’ll have the chance to apply your experience on a high-performing farm.

Reporting to the Farm Operations Manager (Sheep + Beef), you’ll be responsible for the day-to-day coordination of stock work, including planning and overseeing mustering, animal health treatments, and feeding. You’ll work closely with other shepherds and staff, providing support, guidance, and hands-on leadership to ensure operations run safely and efficiently.

This role offers genuine variety — from working with sheep, cattle, and deer to being involved in breeding programmes, data collection, pasture management, and environmental care. You’ll contribute to both the strategic and practical side of farming, helping to drive performance across all livestock classes while maintaining high standards of animal welfare and farm sustainability.

As Head Shepherd, you’ll also be expected to take initiative, communicate clearly, and help foster a positive and collaborative team culture. With the support of an experienced Farm Business Manager and access to professional development opportunities, this is a great step forward for someone ready to take the lead on a dynamic and progressive property.

**The Farm**

Rangitaiki Station is Pamu’s second-largest farm and New Zealand’s third largest, covering 8,317 ha and running a diverse mix of sheep, beef and deer. The scale and complexity of the station provides unique opportunities for professional development and large-scale impact.

• 8,800 breeding ewes (plus progeny) + lamb trading.
• Large-scale cattle trading operation with R1 bulls and steers + R2 Steers.

• Specialist bull finishing operation with R2 Bulls.
• Deer breeding velvet operation – 1,000 MA stags and 800 hinds

Located near Taupo, the station features flat to rolling terrain at 650–900m ASL. Winters are long, but explosive spring growth offers great pasture potential. The full team includes 22 skilled and passionate staff working collaboratively across farm systems.

You’ll bring experience in a similar role and a strong work ethic.

You’ll also have:

• A well-managed team of working dogs
• Excellent communication skills
• A proactive and positive attitude
• Confidence in planning and leading daily farm activities
• Commitment to health, safety, and environmental standards
• A current full NZ driver’s licence
• A willingness to work as part of a team and to lead by example

**Benefits**

You’ll be provided with a modern three-bedroom home, giving you the space and comfort to enjoy rural living. Located just 40 minutes from Taupo, Rangitaiki offers an excellent work-life balance, with fishing, hiking, hunting, and other outdoor pursuits right on your doorstep.

**Apply Now**

Applications close **Sunday 29 June 2025**. we will be interviewing applicants as they apply, so please don't wait.

For more details about the role, please contact the Farm Business Manager: James Van Bohemen on: 027 444 4100 or vanbohemenj@landcorp.co.nz

**To be eligible for this role, you must be available for an in-person interview and have unrestricted legal rights to work in New Zealand. We are unable to accept applicants on temporary work visas for permanent opportunities.**

Pamu provides a safe workplace and the successful applicant will be required to pass a drug and alcohol test and undergo a criminal background check prior to being appointed.