Payroll Specialist
If you like patterns, reporting and analysis join us as our Payroll Specialist and navigate complexity in a large, dynamic organisation.
Competitive remuneration + benefits
Flexible working conditions + free parking
Kiwi-owned brand – Aotearoa’s largest farming co-operative
This is a role for an experienced payroll professional who is comfortable operating at scale, trusted with complexity, and confident making judgement calls.
We’re looking for an experienced Payroll Specialist to partner with our Payroll Manager in a two‑person payroll function, delivering accurate and compliant payroll for around 1,500 across a large, fast‑moving commercial organisation.
If you’ve worked on “big” payrolls before, know the realities of the Holidays Act, and prefer roles where your expertise genuinely matters - this is the one.
Mō te whai waahi | About the opportunity
Based at our Burnside Support Office, you’ll work closely with the Payroll Manager to own the end‑to‑end payroll operation. This is a hands‑on, high‑trust role with real accountability.
We’re transitioning further into Humanforce, bringing workforce management, clock‑ins, payroll inputs and reporting together. Alongside BAU payroll, you’ll play a practical role in shaping how systems, processes and controls evolve as Farmlands continues to grow and onboard new operations.
What you’ll be doing
End‑to‑end payroll processing for a complex, multi‑site workforce
Managing payroll at scale - this is not a small or static environment
Owning pay accuracy, compliance and timeliness across salary, wages, allowances and deductions
Applying deep practical knowledge of the NZ Holidays Act, identifying risks, anomalies and compliance gaps early
Interpreting employment agreements and resolving complex pay‑related issues
Processing redundancies, terminations and off‑cycle payments correctly and confidently
Supporting ongoing payroll system optimisation, reporting improvements and new business transitions
Assisting with payroll analysis, reporting, reconciliations, audit support and internal controls
Staying ahead of legislative change in a continuously evolving payroll environment
Mōhou ake | About you
You’re a seasoned payroll professional who values precision, accountability and follow‑through. You’re pragmatic, calm under pressure and comfortable working in a lean payroll function.
You’ll bring:
Strong hands‑on experience with NZ payroll legislation, particularly the Holidays Act
Proven end‑to‑end payroll experience in a large organisation
MYOB PayGlobal experience (essential)
Experience with workforce management or time & attendance systems (Humanforce highly regarded)
Payroll analysis and reporting capability
High attention to detail, discretion and professional integrity
Experience with D365 and payroll system transitions is advantageous.
Mō ngā painga | About the benefits
At Farmlands, you’ll enjoy autonomy, creativity, and the support of a motivated, values-driven team. You’ll partner with passionate people proud of the role they play supporting rural Aotearoa and influence the learning vision for one of New Zealand’s most significant co‑operatives.
We offer a competitive remuneration package plus a comprehensive range of benefits:
Flexible working conditions (2 days from home) and a pet-friendly office
Paid birthday leave and sick leave from day 1
Exclusive staff discounts and shareholding offers
Career development through our online learning platform and LinkedIn Learning
Enhanced parental leave support
Free parking, proximity to great eateries, and a supportive, diverse team culture
Awesome people doing awesome mahi!
Mō matou | About us
At Farmlands Te Whenua Tāroa, New Zealand’s largest farming co-operative, we’re driven by three core values: Be You, Minds Open, and See It Through. We support NZ farmers and growers to boost profitability and productivity, aiming to be the trusted partner for everyone connected to the land.
With over 1,200 team members across 80+ locations, we offer diverse operations - from retail and feed production to ecommerce and fuel. Join us to be part of a Kiwi-owned brand that values your uniqueness, creativity, and teamwork in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
Te Tono | How to apply
If you’re looking for a role where your payroll expertise truly matters, we’d love to hear from you.
Applications close 6 February 2026.
Note: There is a video question as part of the application process, "Why are you interested in working at Farmlands?".
Te Tukanga Arotake | Pre‑employment Checks
You must have the legal right to work in New Zealand. Successful candidates will complete standard pre‑employment checks, including references, Ministry of Justice, right to work, driver’s licence, and ACC history.
- Team
- People & Safety (HR)
- Role
- Payroll
- Locations
- Christchurch Support Office
- Job Type
- Permanent - full-time
- Position Description
- https://JobDesc.azureedge.net/ttjds/PD Payroll Advisor - Jan 2026.pdf
Our Values

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