News release
18 November 2009
 
 
Mayor’s delight at Jackson premiere for city
 
Hollywood is returning to Wellington with the announcement of another red carpet premiere for the city.
 
Mayor Kerry Prendergast said she was delighted with the news that the New Zealand premiere of Peter Jackson’s film The Lovely Bones will be held in Wellington on Monday 14 December.
 
“It’s fantastic news. Wellington does these things so well, as we know from the success of the Lord of the Rings and King Kong premieres. When we roll out the red carpet, we know it’s going to be an occasion to remember,” Mayor Prendergast said.
 
“This is a great way to celebrate the achievements of Peter Jackson, who has done so much for this city, and I know Wellingtonians will turn out to cheer him on.
 
“It has been four years since King Kong, our last big premiere, so I know there will be a real buzz about this. It will be a fantastic showcase for Wellington.”
 
Paramount Pictures has announced that the event will be held at the iconic Embassy Theatre, scene of previous premieres including the world premiere of Peter Jackson’s Return of the King.
 
The good news for film fans and autograph hunters is that stars including Susan Sarandon, Saoirse Ronan, Rose McIver and Carolyn Dando are expected on the red carpet in Courtenay Place.
 
Mayor Prendergast said she was disappointed she would not be able to attend the premiere because she will be at the United Nations climate change conference in Copenhagen.
 
“I know Wellington will do Peter proud. I think we can guarantee him, his stars and everyone on the red carpet a never-to-be forgotten Wellington experience.”
 
The Lovely Bones will open across New Zealand on December 26.
 
ends