19/05/2026
Experienced Shepherd / General
Spring Valley Enterprises – 15 Minutes Northwest of Masterton
Due to unforeseen medical circumstances, we now have a vacancy for an experienced Shepherd/General to join our team.
At Spring Valley Enterprises, attitude is everything. We believe skills can be developed, but the right mindset is what sets great people apart.
Spring Valley Enterprises is a progressive 2400ha (1600ha effective) sheep and beef breeding and finishing operation, running approximately 17,000 stock units across three closely located farms: Spring Valley, Maranui, and Ratanui.
We run Angus cattle and Highlander sheep, selected for performance across our diverse mix of steep hill country, rolling terrain, and cultivatable flats. We pride ourselves on staying at the forefront of farming technology, utilising tools such as EID, genomic testing, Halter, Farm IQ, and Farmax.
The Opportunity
We are seeking a full-time Shepherd/General with at least 3–4 years’ experience and a strong range of skills across all aspects of animal husbandry, along with practical general farm abilities including:
-Fencing
-Water systems
-Repairs and maintenance
-Tractor driving, including feeding out supplements and topping
This is a varied and rewarding role where the successful applicant will have the opportunity to work across all three farms alongside a variety of stock classes, terrain types, and team members.
-Key Farm Features
-Well-developed subdivision and infrastructure
-Modern cattle yards and woolsheds with covered yards
-550ha cultivatable land
-400ha rolling hills
-1050ha steep hill country
-400ha bush block
-All stock EID tagged
-1200 cattle grazing under Halter
-Reticulated water systems
-Established environmental plantings and protected waterways
-Stunning 360-degree views
About You
Strong shepherding and animal husbandry skills, along with practical general farm experience, are essential. You will also play an important role in maintaining and improving the land asset while contributing positively to a thriving team culture.
Key capabilities include:
-Proven experience in the sheep and beef industry
-A strong desire to learn and develop skills
-Sound knowledge of pasture management, grazing systems, and animal health
-Excellent animal observation and husbandry skills
-Competence in fencing, repairs, maintenance, and water systems
-Confidence to work autonomously while contributing to a team environment
-Ability to mentor and support younger staff and GFF students
-High-level mustering competence across varied terrain
-Adaptability with agri-technology systems such as Halter, Farm IQ, and EID
You will also bring:
-3–4 well-trained working dogs under good control
-Strong communication skills
-Professionalism both on-farm and within the wider community
-Accurate and diligent record keeping (Farm IQ experience preferred, although training can be provided)
-A positive and proactive approach to health and safety
-A curious mindset with a genuine interest in learning and development
Requirements
Full New Zealand driver’s licence
New Zealand citizenship
CV including two work-related referees
The Team & Lifestyle
You will join a team of five skilled and motivated people who value integrity, humour, and teamwork. This role suits someone who can work independently while also enjoying being part of a collaborative, high-performing team.
Accommodation includes:
-Three-bedroom home
-Double garage
-Warm, sunny, fully insulated, recently renovated home (Healthy Homes compliant)
-Woodburner
-Located on school bus routes from primary through to secondary school
Location & Lifestyle Benefits
Located on the boundary of the Tararua Forest Park, the property offers excellent access to:
-Hunting
-Tramping
-Trout fishing
All within a short drive of Masterton, making this an ideal position for someone wanting both a rewarding farming career and town connectivity.
Remuneration will be competitive and reflective of the successful applicant’s experience and skill set.
Why Join Us?
This is an outstanding opportunity to join a progressive, well-resourced farming business where your attitude, initiative, and leadership will be valued and developed.
To apply, please send your CV to our farm consultant, Renee Hogg:
[email protected]
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https://www.springvalley.co.nz/
