Story: Exotic farm animals

Possum-fibre scarf

Possum-fibre scarf

The Australian possum was released in New Zealand to establish a fur industry, but interest in the product was erratic. Demand has increased since the 1990s – between 2000 and 2005 prices for possum fibre doubled to $80 per kilogram, and then rose to $105 in 2007. This scarf – made from a mixture of possum fur, Merino wool and silk – is an example of the new fabrics being produced.

Using this item

Joanne Weaving Studio
Photograph by Joanne Peter

This item has been provided for private study purposes (such as school projects, family and local history research) and any published reproduction (print or electronic) may infringe copyright law. It is the responsibility of the user of any material to obtain clearance from the copyright holder.

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How to cite this page:

Jim Esson, 'Exotic farm animals - Introducing animals', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/photograph/18697/possum-fibre-scarf (accessed 28 March 2024)

Story by Jim Esson, published 24 Nov 2008