By Rosemary Baird

The publicity that accompanies the addition of a place to the New Zealand Heritage List Rārangi Kōrero is a great way to uncover new information and connections. The recent listing of the Cashmere Sanatorium Open Air Shelter prompted a fascinating exchange with Ian Spellerberg.

The Category 1 listed hut in Huntsbury, Christchurch is the last onsite building from what was once an extensive Sanatorium complex designed to deal with the pressing issue of Tuberculosis (TB) in 19th century Christchurch. 

An online Stuff article shared the listing of this ‘basic wee hut’ and prompted Ian Spellerberg to contact Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga with another example of a former open-air hut.

“We understand that the hut was moved to our place (before we owned the property). It was used by a tool maker as a sleepout. We use the hut as a gardening hut and as a backdrop for photos of milk cans. We have a large collection of historic milk cans, including many New Zealand examples,” writes Ian. 

Robyn Burgess, who authored the listing report for the Cashmere Open Air Shelter enjoyed Ian’s email. “It’s always great to know that our research is reaching people. I was able to send Ian a full copy of our listing report, which gives him added information on his historic building.”