In a remarkable display of loyalty that saved a major film production, Oscar-winning director Peter Jackson has revealed how a simple Wellington café played a pivotal role in keeping his latest project on New Zealand soil.
The Lockdown Lifeline
During the strict COVID-19 lockdowns that brought the world to a standstill, Jackson's regular haunt, the Chocolate Fish Café in Wellington's Shelly Bay, made an extraordinary commitment to the famed director. Despite being forced to close their doors to the public, the café's owners continued providing Jackson and his team with their daily coffee and food supplies.
A Production Saved by Loyalty
This simple act of kindness had far-reaching consequences. Jackson confessed that without this support, he would have been forced to relocate his entire production overseas. "If they hadn't done that, I would have moved the movie to another country," the Lord of the Rings director revealed during an interview on Newstalk ZB.
The Chocolate Fish Café, known for its waterfront location and popularity among Wellington's film community, became an unexpected hero in New Zealand's film industry story. Jackson emphasized the crucial role this local business played during those challenging times, highlighting how small gestures can have monumental impacts.
Wellington's Film Community Thrives
This heartwarming tale underscores the strong bonds within Wellington's vibrant film community. The city, already famous as the home of Weta Workshop and the epicentre of Jackson's filmmaking empire, continues to demonstrate how local relationships and community spirit can make all the difference in high-stakes productions.
Jackson's revelation serves as a powerful reminder of how pandemic-era kindnesses helped sustain New Zealand's valuable film industry through unprecedented challenges, ensuring that another major production remained in its spiritual home.
