Shepherd

• Work across 22 parks, combining large-scale farming with conservation-focused practices.
• Build your shepherding skills in stock work, animal health, and pasture care.
• Join a supportive team that works in great outdoors.

He angitūtanga: The opportunity

 
Auckland Council operates one of the largest farming enterprises in the Auckland region, with farming activities spanning 22 Regional and Local Parks over 1,700 hectares. Our stock comprises 13,000 sheep and 1,200 cattle, managed for both breeding and finishing.

We’re now looking for a Shepherd to work across all of the region’s farms depending on where workload is. The key focus of this position is to work collectively with the Farming Operations Manager, Block Supervisors and Park Rangers to implement the operational plan in a way that optimises farm performance.

Our operations are unique focused not only on productivity, but also on protecting public park values. All farming practices are tailored to suit the park environment, ensuring sustainable stock class management, breed types, stocking rates, and sheep-to-cattle ratios that align with broader conservation and public use objectives.

This role offers a fantastic opportunity to grow your shepherding skillset through hands-on involvement in all aspects of day-to-day farm operations including stock work, animal health, pasture management, and general maintenance.

The salary range for this role is between $60,000 - $70,000 depending on experience and skillset.

For a copy of the position description please click here.

He kōrero mōu: About you

The successful candidate will possess 1–2 well-managed working dogs and demonstrate strong practical farming skills, including livestock handling, fencing, general maintenance, and the safe operation of farm machinery and equipment. You will be required to have a valid NZ driver's licence. 

A commitment to continuous self-improvement and a willingness to adopt new technologies that enhance farm productivity and profitability are essential. Recent completion of tertiary and/or vocational training is expected, with the candidate actively seeking to develop their career within a large-scale, commercial farming enterprise.

 
Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer
 
Auckland Council is the largest local government council across Oceania, serving over 1.7 million people and contributing towards making Tāmaki Makaurau a world-class city. Auckland Council stands for excellent environmental, social and farming outcomes and has committed a specialised farming team to ensure the farming strategy is executed.

We offer a range of employee benefits and proudly support flexible working options where possible. View a snapshot of some of our employee benefits HERE

Me Tono Ināianei!: Apply Now!

Applications close: Thursday 21st August 12am NZST

If you have any support or access requirements, please advise us when submitting your application so we can assist you.

Our employer Kiwisaver contribution is additional to base salary offered.

This role is deemed safety sensitive and, in line with Auckland Council policy, you will be required to complete pre-employment drug & alcohol testing.

Auckland Council is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) and we are committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application to assist you through the recruitment process.