Experience Ralph Ranch
Ralph Ranch is a small, family-run lifestyle block located just on the outskirts of Hamilton. We’re passionate about sharing our slice of rural life with others — from our fluffy highland cows, miniature highlands and quirky Valais Blacknose sheep to our friendly Damara sheep, and free-range ducks and chickens. All of our animals are trained to be calm, friendly, and interactive, making them perfect for hands-on experiences.
Whether you're visiting for a farm tour, booking a unique photo shoot, or simply looking to connect with animals and the outdoors, Ralph Ranch offers a relaxed and welcoming setting.
Come and meet the animals, enjoy the peaceful paddocks, and experience a little bit of country life — just minutes from the city!
What's Happening at Ralph Ranch
Every season brings something different..... there is no right or wrong time to visit as there are always sheep to cuddle and cows to see and pat. However, What you’ll see depends on the season and the animals’ stage of life. Here is an insight to our year.
Winter 2026 - Newborn calves are here!
June - August
Winter is calving season at Ralph Ranch, with newborn calves arriving from late July through August. It’s a special time to see calves staying close to their mums, although they’re not usually ready for pats just yet. The weather can be cooler, so bring warm clothes and gumboots, or hire some for your visit.
June: Calving Prep
July: Calving - Daisy & Briar
August: Calving - Nikki & Ruby
Spring 2026 - Newborn lambs and calf cuddles
September - November
Spring brings warmer days, newborn lambs and lots of changes around the ranch. As the calves grow, they’ll begin their training for pats and cuddles, becoming more confident around visitors. By November, you may be lucky enough to enjoy some very special calf cuddles and lamb snuggles.
September: Lambing season
October: Calves start their training
November: Calf & lamb Snuggles
Summer 2026 - Calf cuddles, growing lambs and plenty of sunshine
December - February
Summer is one of the best times to visit if calf cuddles are on your wish list! The calves are now over three months old and well into their training, so they’re becoming confident with pats and attention. They’ll begin heading off to their new homes from February, so summer is your chance to make the most of them.
December: Calves & lambs
January: Weaning time
February: Calves and lambs head off to their new homes
Please Note: we often take a break for some family time between Christmas and New Years
Autumn 2026 - Bonus calving! Newborn calves each month
March - May
Autumn 2026 is a little different at Ralph Ranch — we’re calving! Three of our girls have timed their pregnancies for autumn, giving us a very special bonus calving season. Newborn calves will stay close to their mums and aren't ready for pats just yet, but the beautiful autumn leaves make this a gorgeous time for photos.
March: Aurora due
April: Peanut due
May: Buttercup due
Please Note: Our sheep are away for breeding during autumn, so if meeting the sheep is important to your visit, please check with us first.