Job Details
Category: Sheep and Beef
Location: Rotorua
AgFirst
Farm Manager | Longfords Farm
Where
Longfords Farm is an 800 ha (600 ha effective) family-owned sheep and beef property situated in Lake Okareka, just 10km from the heart of Rotorua, surrounded by stunning lakes and native bush.
First established in 1937, the farm has a proud history and is part of a wider family business that also runs a successful horse trekking venture and a wedding venue. While the Farm Manager role focuses on the farming operation, occasional support and strong communication with these other enterprises will be required.
What
We are seeking a capable and motivated Farm Manager to take responsibility for the day-to-day running and long-term performance of the farm. The property runs 3200-3400 Romney breeding Ewes, half of the Ewes to a Terminal Sire and the other half to a Romney Sire. The goal is to finish all lambs on grass and summer crop, but options are there to forward store if season allows, while keeping 800-1000 replacements ewe lambs each year.
Year-round cattle trading also forms a big part of the operation. Wintering around 400-450 cattle that vary in age from weaners to 2- and 3-year-olds (mix of steers and heifers).
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the development and execution of the farm business plan.
- Manage and refine stock policy to maximise productivity and sustainability.
- Oversee financial management including budgeting, forecasting, and reporting.
- Ensure effective livestock and operational management, including feeding, animal health, and pasture utilisation.
- Maintain compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.
- Keep accurate farm records and reporting systems.
- Build strong working relationships with the family, staff, and wider businesses connected to the farm.
- Understanding environmental sustainability
Who
We are looking for someone who is:
- A strong team player with the ability to connect with people from all walks of life.
- Highly organised, proactive, and a forward thinker.
- Strong animal health knowledge
- Flexible and adaptable, given multiple enterprises operate on the property.
- Experienced in practical sheep and beef farming with a strong understanding of stock performance and farm systems.
- A clear and confident communicator is a must
- Supported by a capable team of 3–5 good working dogs.
- 3-5 years of experience in a senior position within the sheep and beef industry
- Must be eligible to work in New Zealand/be a resident
- Hold full driver’s licence
- Drug free
Why
This is more than just a job – it’s a lifestyle opportunity in a truly special location.
- A warm 3-bedroom brick home with office and additional sleepout is
- provided.
- A remuneration package will depend on experience
- A supportive, family-orientated environment and community.
- Local preschool just minutes away and a wide choice of schools in the Rotorua area.
- Modern infrastructure including large undercover sheep yards with a 5-stand woolshed
- Incredible work views, surrounded by lakes, native bush,
- Hunting and fishing at your doorstep
If this sounds like you and you have more to offer, please send your cover letter and CV to:
C/- AgFirst
PO Box 976
Rotorua 3040
Email: rotorua@agfirst.co.nz
Ph (07) 349 4333
Date Posted: 2025-09-05
