Media Release

20 December 2012

Middle Earth Comes to Afghanistan This Christmas

The recently released adventures of Bilbo Baggins, Gandalf the Grey, and Gollum will entertain NZ Defence Force personnel serving in Bamyan Province, Afghanistan this Christmas.

The Hobbit - An Unexpected Journey, produced by Sir Peter Jackson and Fran Walsh, will be delivered to Afghanistan, and the NZ Provincial Reconstruction Team (NZPRT) will be the first in the country to see the film.

NZPRT Senior Military Advisor, Lieutenant Colonel (LT COL) Sholto Stephens says it is a huge boost for personnel and a timely reminder of home over the Christmas period.

“It is often difficult serving on operations overseas and being away from family at Christmas, but being able to watch the The Hobbit will make the Christmas season more enjoyable and memorable for our team.

“Our thanks go to Sir Peter Jackson for allowing the NZPRT to premier the screening of The Hobbit here in Afghanistan. Being able to be the first in Afghanistan to watch it, almost as early as people back in New Zealand, is a real morale boost for us. It reminds us that we have significant support from back home, from Kiwis everywhere and from all walks of life.

“It is a great way to wrap up 2012 for the NZPRT which continues to assist local Afghan National security forces, who have the lead for security in Bamyan, as we prepare for New Zealand’s withdrawal in April 2013.”

While Christmas Day will largely be a working day for personnel in Afghanistan, some Christmas celebrations will take place during what will be a white Christmas.
Currently 192 NZ Defence Force personnel are serving in Afghanistan.

ENDS