New Zealand capital to change its name to ‘The Middle of Middle Earth’ for The Hobbit promotion
Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, is set to change its name to ‘The Middle of Middle Earth’ to promote the launch of ‘The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey’ next month.
The change will take place for three weeks and will see postmarks on letters and the main local newspaper change to reflect the new name.
The city is set to spend £557,800 to prepare for the premiere on 28 November.
Director Peter Jackson said: "Nowhere else in the world does a premiere quite like Wellington, and I'm very grateful for the support of the Mayor, the Council and all Wellingtonians.
"It's special showing any film to an audience for the first time, but even more so when it's in your home town."