Large Animal Veterinarian - Darfield

Large Animal (Dairy) Veterinarian - Ashburton
Permanent, Full-time position

Ready to Shape the Future of Large Animal Vetting Across Sheep, Beef & Dairy?

We’re not your average vet clinics. At Farmfirst Veterinary, we’re passionate, forward-thinking teams rewriting the rulebook on what it means to be a rural veterinary partner. And right now, we’re on the lookout for a mixed-species Large Animal Veterinarian to join our Darfield clinic, located in the heart of the stunning Selwyn region of New Zealand.

If you're looking for your next challenge, this is your chance to influence the future of agri-veterinary services - not just on farm, but across the industry. Whether you’re tending to sheep, beef, deer, lifestyle clients or dairy herds, you’ll be part of a team making a real impact on New Zealand livestock farming.

What Makes Us Different?

We walk the talk when it comes to doing things differently. Here’s what that means:

• A proactive client base of legends - You’ll work with engaged, motivated sheep, beef, and dairy farmers who value collaboration and long-term animal health planning.
• Consulting that actually consults - Four times a year, you’ll sit down with clients to talk goals, herd/flock performance, and where to next. We focus on real relationships, not rushed visits.
• The freedom to follow your passion - Whether it’s consultancy, agritech, surgery, or mentoring the next generation, we support your aspirations and tailor your career to what excites you.
• Where technology meets stockmanship - Work alongside industry-leading vets exploring innovations in agri-wearables, data-driven herd/flock health, Stockcare Lite and more.
• Our own vet-built software - Meet Herbie, our in-house tool designed by vets, for vets, providing real-time animal health insights and streamlined planning.

About the Role

We’re looking for a full-time, experienced, mixed species Large Animal Veterinarian to join our growing Darfield team. This is a generalist role covering a diverse range of clients - from commercial sheep and beef operations, to deer, lifestyle blocks and high-performing dairy herds.

You’ll bring clinical skills, strategic thinking, and a people-first mindset. Leadership and mentoring opportunities are available for those who want to step up and help shape the future of large animal vetting.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide high-quality, proactive veterinary care across sheep, beef, deer, lifestyle and dairy systems.
• Lead regular on-farm consulting sessions with clients.
• Perform surgical procedures, diagnostics, reproduction work, and emergency care.
• Collaborate with colleagues to develop and implement health and production plans.
• Mentor junior vets and support their growth.
• Take part in the shared after-hours roster.
• Engage in strategic initiatives or leadership projects (if this interests you).

What You’ll Bring:

• A recognised veterinary degree and eligibility to work in New Zealand.
• At least 4 years’ experience in a large animal veterinary setting - ideally with exposure to sheep, beef and dairy.
• Strong clinical and consulting skills.
• A passion for the NZ livestock sector and a drive to create lasting change on-farm.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities.
• Leadership and mentoring qualities.
• A curious, open mindset with a willingness to innovate.

About Us:

At Farmfirst Veterinary, we’re more than a veterinary practice – we’re a purpose-driven community of passionate professionals who care deeply about animals, people, and rural life.

Our clinics span some of New Zealand’s most beautiful regions, backed by innovative tech, strong systems, and a leadership team that puts people first. We believe work should be meaningful, and our team culture reflects that - supportive, progressive, and grounded in trust.

We're proud to be Kiwi-owned and operated, and committed to helping livestock farmers thrive through smarter, more sustainable veterinary care.

Why Join Us?

At Farmfirst, we support our team to be their best - professionally and personally. Here’s what you can expect:

• Employee Assistance Programme for mental wellbeing and support.
• 6-monthly development reviews - because your career matters.
• CPD support and ongoing education - never stop learning.
• Connected Lives Programme - because balance matters.
• Competitive salary packages tailored to your experience.
• 3% KiwiSaver contributions - investing in your future.
• Staff discounts on services and products.
• Annual flu jabs - we’ve got you covered.
• Your birthday off - enjoy a paid day for you.
• Long service leave to reward your commitment.
• Enhanced parental leave support (for both parents).
• Flexible working arrangements - because life doesn’t always follow a roster.

When you join us, you're joining a team that cares deeply about your success, growth, and wellbeing.

Why Darfield?

If you're seeking the perfect blend of rewarding rural work and laid-back lifestyle, Darfield delivers. Surrounded by rich farmland and views of the Southern Alps, this friendly community offers everything from mountain adventures to local farmers markets. It’s just a short drive from Christchurch - giving you access to city life while enjoying the peace of the countryside.

Ready to Join Us?

Send your cover letter and CV to careers@veterinaryfirst.co.nz, or sit down for a coffee with one of our vets to find out how we’re doing things differently at Farmfirst.

We’re shortlisting and interviewing throughout the application period - so don’t wait!

Let’s Talk:

• Michael Burnett (Agri Business Manager) - 027 212 7985
• Kate Foxcroft (Large Animal Veterinarian, Ashburton) - 027 665 5966
• Rob Dunbar (Lead Large Animal Veterinarian, Lincoln) - 027 241 6008