Game Keeper Manager

Skills and Attributes:

• Deep knowledge of countryside, wildlife and conservation practices
• Proficiency in using agricultural machinery (e.g. quad bikes, chainsaws)
• Physical fitness and stamina for demanding outdoor work in all weather conditions;
• A genuine passion for the countryside, wildlife and natural habitats

Key Responsibilities:

Game Bird Management

• Oversee the rearing, feeding, healht monitoring and release of pheasants and other game birds.
• Implement population control strategies to maintain healthy, sustainable stock  levels.
• Monitor bird behaviour, health and habitat usage and act promptly n welfare concerns.
• Ensure sufficient birds are caught at the end of the shoot season to provide enough eggs fro next season's poults.

Breeding, Egg Management & Incubation

• Oversee the breeding stock, ensuring high standards of welfare and productivity.
• Manage the collection of eggs, including the picking up, washing, and correct storage process prior to incubation.
• Oversee and manage the incubation of eggs to ensure optimal hatching rates and
  strong, healthy chicks for rearing.

Habitat & Land Management

• Maintain woodland, scrub, and grassland areas to optimise habitat for game birds
  and other wildlife.
• Manage feed rides, cover crops, and woodland edges to encourage strong bird
  populations.
• Ensure best-practice conservation techniques are used to promote a balanced
  ecosystem.

Predator & Pest Control

• Conduct trapping, monitoring, and management of predators such as stoats, ferrets,
  possums, and other threats to game birds.
• Maintain accurate records of pest control activities in line with environmental
  regulations.

Shoot Day Coordination

• Plan and organise all shoot days, ensuring safety, compliance, and a professional
  experience.
• Brief beaters, shooters, and support teams to ensure smooth and successful operations.
• Oversee dog handlers and manage working dogs where required.

Machinery, Tools & Equipment

• Operate and maintain agricultural machinery including quad bikes, chainsaws, tractors and light uility vehicles
• Ensure all equipment is kept in safe working condition and meets compliance
  standards.

Property & Estate Tasks

• Maintain tracks, access ways, fencing, water systems, and general property infrastructure.
• Carry out routine estate duties as required to support the wider farm or property
  operations.

Health & Safety

• Adhere to all New Zealand firearms, environmental, and workplace safety
  regulations.
• Maintain accurate records for chemical use, pest control, and machinery.
• Promote and uphold a strong safety culture during all fieldwork and shoot activities.