In a thrilling announcement that has stirred excitement akin to the rumblings of Mount Doom, Wellington, the beloved home of Middle Earth, braces for the return of the epic saga with two new Lord of the Rings movies slated for release. Amidst the jubilation, industry stalwart Andy Serkis is set to reprise his iconic role as Gollum while taking the helm as director for the first of the two films, scheduled to grace screens in 2026.

Tentatively titled “The Hunt for Gollum,” the inaugural film will be brought to life under the watchful eye of acclaimed filmmaker Peter Jackson, who will produce the venture from the heart of Wellington. Mark Westerby, Head of Attraction for Screen Wellington, hailed the production as a monumental triumph for the capital and the wider New Zealand film industry.

“We know Lord of the Rings well. We’ve done it before,” remarked Westerby, emphasising the profound commitment of the creative team to safeguard the rich lore of Middle Earth.

Acknowledging the influx of fresh talent, Westerby underscored the unparalleled opportunities awaiting budding filmmakers on the global stage. “There’s no better way to learn than on a big film set,” he enthused, highlighting the invaluable learning curve that accompanies involvement in such ambitious undertakings.

For seasoned hands like Kris Gillan, a fabricator with a storied history in Peter Jackson’s productions, the news brought a sense of relief amidst earlier apprehensions. Reflecting on the significance of local production, Gillan remarked, “Peter Jackson kind of owes the local industry to do it here.”

Simon Arcus, Chief Executive of the Wellington Chamber of Commerce, echoed Gillan’s sentiments, affirming New Zealand’s enhanced readiness to seize the economic prospects presented by the cinematic juggernaut. “This time we should make sure they’re front and centre if there’s opportunities to engage and get good contracts for the movies,” Arcus emphasized, underlining the imperative of maximising local participation.

René de Monchy, Chief Executive of Tourism New Zealand, hailed the enduring allure of the franchise as a potent catalyst for tourism, with the original films continuing to beckon travellers to the shores of Aotearoa. “The movies again become a fantastic moving billboard for the beauty of New Zealand’s landscape,” de Monchy remarked, underscoring the enduring appeal of Middle Earth’s enchanting vistas.

However, amidst the palpable excitement, voices of caution and scepticism emerged on the streets of Wellington. Some expressed concerns over the potential dilution of the original trilogy’s impact, while others questioned the need for additional instalments. Yet, a prevailing sentiment of optimism resonated, with locals acknowledging the broader benefits of Wellington’s creative landscape and film industry.

“It will be good for Wellington,” remarked one pragmatic local, encapsulating the prevailing sentiment of cautious optimism that permeates the capital as it prepares to embark on another cinematic journey through the enchanting realms of Middle Earth.