ACT Arts and Culture Spokesman MP Penny Webster today joined with New Zealand in congratulating Peter Jackson and his
team for Lord of the Rings's thirteen Oscar nominations.
She warned, however, that future films could be hindered by the Department of Conservation blocking filmmakers out.
"Some members of the Department of Conservation want to restrict - and even ban - filming in the National Parks and
other areas. What nonsense! The scenery of New Zealand helped make Lord of the Rings a great movie. It is what
filmmakers look for.
"In her Speech to Parliament, Ms Clark said she wanted to build on Lord of the Rings' success to create an innovative
New Zealand. Let's hope she passes this message on to the Department of Conservation," Mrs Webster said.
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