A Massey University lecturer and design expert is focusing attention on the importance of preserving New Zealand’s most historic, colourful and community-oriented woolsheds.

Dr Annette O’Sullivan, who is writing a book about woolsheds, says she feels a sense of urgency to get the book completed, as “so many iconic woolsheds are being lost due to changes in land use and sheep farming”.

Federated Farmers is helping Annette raise the $30,000 she needs to complete her book, and have set up a PledgeMe campaign which has almost reached $5,000.

“The funding will be used to commission world-class photography of woolsheds from award-winning New Zealand photographer Jane Ussher, who is already well known for her beautiful work capturing New Zealand’s iconic homesteads,” Annette said.

Federated Farmers national meat and wool spokesperson Toby Williams said it is important to remember where we’ve come from.

“...this book is a great way to honour the history of the woolshed, the people who have worked in them and the product they make." 

Anyone making a contribution to the book will be thanked in print; there are discounted copies on offer; and the chance to buy limited edition prints of the photographs.

Find the link to the campaign here.