Posted on October 27, 2010 by Fiona Hilliard

Small people of New Zealand rejoice!

The country’s prime minister, John Key has managed to secure a last minute deal with Hollywood executives to film Lord of the Rings prequel, “The Hobbit”, after opting to change employment law and offer additional tax incentives.

Recent Difficulties

Commenting on the announcement, Mr Key said: “Making the two Hobbit movies here will not only safeguard work for thousands of New Zealanders, but it will also follow the success of the Lord of the Rings trilogy in once again promoting New Zealand on the world stage.”

This latest handshake with Warner Bros will definitely help the country’s film and tourism industries overcome recent difficulties.
 

Last month, New Zealand’s central bank downgraded its economic forecasts after parts of the country suffered serious earthquake damage.

Stunning Scenery

Anyone who has seen the first two Lord of the Rings films will know that they portrayed New Zealand in a highly flattering light.  Hundreds of thousands of tourists were encouraged to explore the lush green landscapes and dramatic waterfalls that formed the backdrop to the adventures of Frodo and Co.

Data released just last week revealed that tourism has now replaced dairy farming as the country’s top export earner.

Government ministers have even gone as far as saying that the Lord of the Rings trilogy affected the travel choices of one in ten visitors to New Zealand.

New Zealand’s cities are well aware of the film’s worth to their local economies.

Follow the Famous Trail

Already, the city of Wellington has offered to contribute $10 million towards marketing costs as part of the partnership.

In the meantime, anyone who decides to rent a car in New Zealand to follow in the hairy footsteps of  the Lord of the Rings crew will find some great themed drive options on New Zealand Tourism Guide.