The Campaign for Wool New Zealand (CFWNZ) has introduced an online portal and updated the Wool in Schools programme to enhance connections with New Zealand wool and support its future. The digital partner portal, available on the CFWNZ website, grants access to verified consumer and market research, professional photography, business templates, a directory of wool industry contacts, and other resources for wool manufacturers, businesses, brands, and supporters. CFWNZ uses the annual subscription fee from portal users to expand its initiatives, thereby benefiting New Zealand’s strong wool industry and growers.
Tom O’Sullivan, General Manager – Advocacy, emphasises the growing recognition of wool as a natural super fibre, particularly as consumers become more concerned about the climate and shift away from plastics and synthetics.
Previously, there was no way for New Zealanders, aside from wool growers, to support the extensive efforts in consumer education and behavior change. To address this, CFWNZ introduced a $1000 annual subscription fee for those interested in becoming a Campaign for Wool Brand Partner. Brand Partners gain access to resources and can use the official CFWNZ brand mark in their marketing, aligning with a global movement for change. Additionally, the website now accepts donations of any value from individuals and businesses, with all funds contributing to increasing wool use and driving effective wool education.
CFWNZ’s Wool in Schools programme, with co-funding from the Ministry for Primary Industries’ Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures fund, has renovated shipping containers that travel to primary schools nationwide. The containers now feature woollen carpet, felted panelling, woollen insulation, seating upholstery, and an interactive display showcasing wool processing stages. The educational resources have been digitised to make learning materials more accessible. CFWNZ aims to make these resources available to schools throughout New Zealand, regardless of their ability to host container visits.
CFWNZ plans to focus on promoting the benefits of wool in housing and architecture in the future. The organisation is pleased with the progress made since unveiling its three-year strategy six months ago and believes that more New Zealanders are eager to connect with the wonders of wool.
To learn more about Wool in Schools, access the Partner Portal or make a donation, go to nzwool.co.nz
