Hunting for Hobbits

07 November 2012

New Zealand is abuzz today as it prepares for the world premiere of The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey in Wellington. It’s undeniable that New Zealand has far more to offer than simply a backdrop to some big screen brilliance. Yet for one glorious day, it’s surrendering to its namesake: New Zealand is Middle-Earth.

If you’re wondering how they’re celebrating, wonder no more.

Precious treasures

New Zealand Post have got involved by releasing a range of commemorative coins – including a set of three gold coins coming in at a whopping $10,995. You’ll be able to work on your truly authentic impression of Gollum with those weighing down your pocket.

A slightly more affordable way to jump on the Hobbit bandwagon are the commemorative stamps which allow you to send a touch of Middle-Earth through the post, without the pocket-bruising price tag.

Plane imaginative

If there’s anyone who’s really hopped onto The Hobbit, it’s Air New Zealand. Dubbing themselves ‘the airline of Middle-Earth’, they brought a touch of the silver screen to their in-flight screens with their brand new safety video, An Unexpected Briefing.

Already renowned for their innovative, tongue-in-cheek videos, the latest offering is a feast for Hobbit fans. Hairy feet, pointy ears and even Sir Peter Jackson himself take a star turn – have a look.

Not content with simply unveiling a new safety video, Air New Zealand went one step further – and unveiled an entire Hobbit plane. Not only that – it features the largest ever graphic applied to an aircraft. At 830sqm, it took the team 400 hours to install the graphic. It promises to have a starring role at Wellington’s premiere today after flying to London via Los Angeles.

Go behind the scenes and see what it takes to make a Hobbit fly.

Hobbiton returns to Wellington

New Zealand’s capital Wellington is the host of the Hobbitpremiere as well as being the home to Weta Digital and Weta Workshop (the visual and physical effects companies behind the Lord of the Rings and other blockbusters). So naturally, they’ve dressed up for the occasion.

The airport carousel has been renamed Bag End and features a green, hilly landscape complete with stained glass windows. Middle of Middle-Earth flags flutter from the lampposts throughout the city’s streets. A giant Gandalf next to a Hobbit hole towers above the Embassy Theatre while Hobbit-inspired artisan markets are being held in the run up to the premiere.

Over to you

Will you be lining up in the cinemas to see The Hobbit? Does it make you want to visit New Zealand?

Start your journey to New Zealand

Recent news

Skilled Migrant Category or Green List?

Soon, some skilled professionals will have the opportunity to chose between two pathways to residency in New Zealand, the Green List, or the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC). We understand that making this decision might feel a bit overwhelming, so we’ve listed some of the key differences here.

Exciting updates to Accredited Employer Work Visas and Residence Pathways

Some recent announcements from Immigration New Zealand will be great news for those looking to make the move to our beautiful shores. Near record-breaking levels of people arriving and remaining in New Zealand for more than 12 months, show just how desirable the Kiwi lifestyle of work-life balance is.

New Zealand Tops Global Rankings for Work-Life Balance in Recent Study

A recent study has ranked New Zealand as the global leader in achieving a harmonious work-life balance. This accolade not only highlights the country’s commitment to the well-being of its citizens but also offers valuable insights for the rest of the world. The result of this balance is a workforce that is not only productive but also fulfilled, nurturing a positive ripple effect across every aspect of society.

Newly Announced Changes to the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa

New simplified points system will be introduced for the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa on 9 October 2023. These changes are designed to provide a faster route to residence for individuals in high-skilled roles and offer a clear pathway to residence for those who work in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Top in-demand jobs in New Zealand in 2023

Discover the 21 of the most sought-after occupations in New Zealand, where technological advancements and shifting industry demands have created a dynamic job market with lucrative career opportunities.

YOUR NEW LIFE IN New Zealand BEGINS HERE - WE'RE EXPERTS IN

JOBS

VISAS

RELOCATION

Not ready to take the first step?