Comments from TripAdvisor, where our rating is 4.5 out of 5.0.
• “A really authentic look at shearing, wool and NZ's biggest industry for a long time. I enjoyed it thoroughly and the kids had a great time too!”
• “Really enjoyed it all, and the clothing was cheaper than in other shops and touristy spots.”
• “Extremely friendly ladies greeted us. Never realised sheep and shearing would be so interesting. A sheep's a sheep till you look around and learn about them. Archive footage to watch and plenty of reading to do. Only takes a short time to walk around. The fact the sheds were transported and restored here makes for a good bit of history.”
• “Well thought out and obviously they care for it. Lovely place, would definitely recommend a visit.”
• “The museum is nicely laid out, the displays are plentiful and engaging and the staff is happy to answer any questions. During our visit we were also able to chat with the ladies who were spinning and knitting.* The gift shop offers local wool products and some yarn.” [*Wednesdays only.]
ABOUT US
Welcome to The Wool Shed, New Zealand's museum of sheep and shearing.
We’re a hands-on heritage museum celebrating New Zealand’s sheep farming and shearing history, in the rural town of Masterton. Run by a voluntary trust, we’re a community venue as well as a museum. Several Masterton organisations meet here and we host the Wairarapa Spinners & Weavers Guild. We’re just one and a half hours from Wellington.
Drop in to see us and you'll enjoy:
Two authentic old wool sheds trucked in from local farms, plus a newly constructed gallery building – full of sheep farm gear, including shearing and wool handling equipment.
Displays describing the history of sheep farming and its importance to our nation. For many years New Zealand was said to “live off the sheep’s back.” The economy is broader now, but sheep are still important and their story is fascinating.
Samples and descriptions of wool types and wool end-products.
Spinning and weaving demonstrations on Wednesday mornings and by arrangement. See the history of spinning from ancient times and our collection of spinning wheels.
The story of shearing – how it began and how it developed to become highly efficient, and an international sport.
Shearing demonstrations by arrangement – give us a call.
Traction engine display including the Masterton District Council’s vintage steam roller, which is essentially the same as the vehicles that once were common in rural New Zealand.
Six video displays and eleven buttons you can press to hear farm activities, traction engines and interviews with shearers and farm workers.
A shearers’ cookhouse from the 1930s.
Our shop with its wide range of wool garments, footwear, sheepskin rugs, lanolin cosmetics, gift items, kids’ stuff and souvenirs.
And much, much more, to stimulate your knowledge for history and actual activities on sheep farms. We are a visitor attraction of international quality and we welcome visitors from all over New Zealand as well as thousands of visitors from around the world.