Monte and Anna Warren of Ruawaka Hills 

2025 Greater Wellington Finalists: Monte and Anna Warren of Ruawaka Hills – Sheep, beef and venue hire 

The farmers at this picturesque Wairarapa property use a range of sustainable practices to enhance biodiversity, improve water quality, and ensure the long-term viability of the property. 

Monte and Anna Warren are successfully balancing profitability with environmental stewardship at the two properties that comprise Ruawaka Hills. They are third-generation farmers of the properties that together total 1,300ha (1,206ha effective), and today it is used to run sheep, beef and a wedding venue business.  

Recognising the unique characteristics of their diverse landscape, Monte and Anna are committed to farming in a way that respects its natural resources. Management decisions are tied closely to land class. This means they have diversified to maximise productive land while vulnerable areas have been planted out for biodiversity, erosion control and carbon sequestration. 

They’ve increased stock numbers by grazing dry hoggets in a neighbouring vineyard – a move that has also reduced pressure on their own pastures. Today, they run 5,300 Romney breeding ewes, along with 220 Angus breeding cows. 

Sustainability initiatives are a key focus. Monte has implemented a range of measures to improve water quality, including fencing off waterways, installing culverts to prevent stock access, and reconstructing a water supply dam to ensure clean water for livestock and domestic use. 

Monte and Anna are constantly learning and adapting, for example embracing technology such as precision fertiliser application to minimise environmental impact. 

Beyond farming, they have diversified their income streams by establishing a successful wedding venue on the property. This innovative approach demonstrates their commitment to finding sustainable and profitable ways to utilise the farm’s resources. 

The judges were impressed with Monte and Anna’s dedication to sustainable farming practices. By balancing profitability with environmental stewardship, they are demonstrating that it is possible to farm sustainably and leave a positive legacy for future generations.