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Get Behind-the-Scenes of Weta!

It’s official, Weta Cave is now open! Fans and visitors now have the chance to see behind-the-scenes of the world-famous Weta.

Weta Cave combines three experiences in one; a mini museum, a theatre and a shop. Visitors are given a first-ever behind-the-scenes look at Weta via a brand new and unique 20-minute film, which is shown in the Weta Cave screening room.

Weta Cave also showcases characters, props and displays selected from the more than 20 years of Weta history. Fans will love the shop, which features a wide range of movie-related merchandise and memorabilia.

For more information, visit: www.wetaNZ.com/cave 

 

Hollywood, Wellywood

Wellington truly deserves its nickname Wellywood. Several major Hollywood movies have been filmed here in 2008, including Avatar, The Dam Busters and The Lovely Bones.

But the big news is that Wellington has been confirmed as home base for filming of The Hobbit, with work to begin in 2009. The two films will be produced by Peter Jackson, and directed by Mexican film-maker Guillermo del Toro. Lord of the Rings stars Sir Ian McKellen and Andy Serkis have already been confirmed for the films.

 

Hot New Boutique Hotel

Welcome to Ohtel, Wellington’s newest boutique hotel. Located on scenic Oriental Bay, Ohtel caters to the corporate and leisure guest with its eclectic mid-20th century design and contemporary New Zealand artworks. It offers 10 spacious suites and a green edge – hot water is generated by solar power.

Interested? Visit: www.ohtel.com

 

It's All About the Colossal Squid

The Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa has been grabbing the headlines with its massive news – the defrosting of its colossal squid.

The largest known specimen of colossal squid was defrosted in April 2008, and the world watched via webcam. It will be placed in a purpose-built tank for display at Te Papa in the latter quarter of this year.

For more information, visit: www.tepapa.govt.nz