“A sheep’s a sheep till you look around and learn about them.” This quote perfectly encapsulates our next stop: The Woolshed. This is not just any building. The Woolshed is a celebration of New Zealand’s sheep farming and shearing history. Welcome to The Woolshed!
The Woolshed stands as a testament to New Zealand’s deep connection to sheep farming. For many years, New Zealand was said to “live off the sheep’s back.” The economy is broader now. Sheep are still important. Their story is fascinating. The Woolshed museum is run by a voluntary trust. It is a true community venue. Several Masterton organizations meet here. It even hosts the Wairarapa Spinners & Weavers Guild.
Inside The Woolshed, you’ll find two authentic old wool sheds. They were trucked in from local farms. There is also a newly constructed gallery building. This is full of sheep farm gear. Shearing and wool handling equipment is on display. The museum’s exhibits describe the history of sheep farming. They explain its importance to the nation.
The Woolshed features samples and descriptions of wool types. You can explore wool end-products. Learn about the history of spinning. See the museum’s collection of spinning wheels. The Woolshed tells the story of shearing. Discover how it began. See how it developed into a highly efficient process and an international sport.
Interactive elements bring the experience to life. Six video displays and eleven buttons await you. Press them to hear farm activities. Listen to traction engines. Hear interviews with shearers and farm workers. Imagine the aroma of a shearers’ cookhouse from the 1930s.
Don’t miss the chance to see spinning and weaving demonstrations. These are held on Wednesday mornings. You can arrange demonstrations at other times too. Live sheep shearing demonstrations can also be arranged with prior notice.
The Woolshed shop offers a wide range of wool garments. Find footwear and sheepskin rugs. Lanolin cosmetics are available. Gift items, kids’ stuff and souvenirs are on offer too. The shop has many other wonderful items.
The Woolshed is a visitor attraction of international quality. It welcomes visitors from all over New Zealand. Thousands of visitors come from around the world. So, take a moment to appreciate this unique museum. It is a place where you can truly understand New Zealand’s connection to the sheep.