Wellington is making headlines today with the news of plans to erect a giant sign similar in concept to greater LA’s landmark Hollywood sign.
An artist’s impression of how the sign will look.
The Wellywood banner, 28 metres wide and with lettering 3.5 metres high, will sit on the Miramar peninsula opposite the New Zealand capital’s main airport, which is helping to fund the project.
Due in place by June, the sign aims to draw attention to the region’s significant role in movie production.
Around 10 film companies are based on the peninsula, including the award-winning special effects crew behind ‘Lord of the Rings’ and ‘Avatar’.
NZ film director Sir Peter Jackson told the Dominion Post that the sign is a bit of "cheeky fun", but reflecting "genuine pride" in what the local film industry has achieved.
"Several of the most popular films ever made were born in Miramar", he said.
"Within a mile of the sign is the birthplace of Middle-earth and Pandora".
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