Joseph Kinsey cottage

Kinsey’s cottage, Ferrymead Heritage Park, Christchurch.

Joseph Kinsey's cottage and Antarctic photography

Scott's signature in Warrimoo visitor book

A cottage at Ferrymead Heritage Park in Christchurch was owned by Joseph Kinsey, who was involved in aspects of Scott and Shackleton's Antarctic expeditions. It also has a possible link to Scott's photographer, Herbert Ponting.

Joseph Kinsey became involved in Antarctic expeditions through his shipping firm Kinsey and Co. In addition to receiving logistical assistance, Scott and Shackleton are both known to have visited Kinsey's properties in Papanui and Sumner, Christchurch.

Husky photo

Kinsey was also a keen amateur photographer and it is believed he lent his laboratory, situated in a cottage behind his Papanui house, to Scott's photographer, Herbert Ponting. In 1971, his Papanui property was sold to make way for a block of motels. But three weeks before the site was due to be cleared the Christchurch Branch of the New Zealand Antarctic Society acquired the cottage, relocated it to Ferrymead Heritage Park and undertook restoration work. The house on his Sumner property was demolished in 2005.

Further information

• Ferrymead Heritage Park