2024 Waikato Regional Supreme Winners: Alastair & Ann Reeves of Reeves Farms – Sheep and Beef

Building on a family legacy, Alastair and Ann Reeves have developed a highly resilient farming business that is profitable while enhancing the surrounding environment. 
 
Reeves Farms has been in the family for more than 90 years, with Alastair and Ann being the fourth generation to farm it. Today, it’s a food and fibre-producing business, selling mainly lamb and manufacturing beef, plus providing sheep genetics to the wider industry. 
 
Across the 605ha (550ha effective) property, they run 1,700 prime lambs, 400 two-year bulls and 400 rams for breeding. The judges were impressed with the Reeves’ deep understanding of land and animal classes, with farming practices and stocking policies tailored to suit.  
 
Their animals have a high tolerance to parasites and are low emitters of methane, thanks to careful breeding based on genetics. Over the past four years, methane emissions have dropped 3.2% across the flock, while production has increased. 
 
Alastair and Ann have a good understanding of the property’s strengths, ensuring they plant the right tree in the right place. The result is a mix of native species and exotic trees including pines and poplars, with significant planting at the main catchment’s headwaters. Riparian corridors have been extensively fenced and planted, while predators are actively managed.   
 
They collaborate with the wider community to control possums across a total of 155,000ha – a reflection of their strong connection to those around them. Ann and Alastair actively work alongside others in the sheep and beef industry, empowering their peers through the sharing of knowledge. This includes helping to set up and chair the West Waikato Coastal Community Catchment Group. 
 
Ann and Alastair have developed a highly resilient farming business that is successfully providing an income for their family’s needs today, plus improving the farm for future generations.