A few weeks back, we posted a story from the NZ Post about how the Aratiatia Rapids, a popular tourist destination, would be shut down for four days during peak tourist season for The Hobbit filming. Adding further credit to that report are these images from Ringer Spy Hobbitwatch. In the photos, you can see a crew performing some kind of tests with pink barrels at the Falls. Here is the full report from Ringer Spy Hobbitwatch:
Just sending you a few pics of the activity going on at the Aratiatia Rapids where they have started filming for the barrell scenes in The Hobbit, they had heaps of safety people there as pretty dangerous stuff, mostly all wound up when I took the pics, but shows the barrels they were using for when the Bilbo Baggins and the dwarves, rode the rapids in barrels to get away from the orcs I think it was. the barrels are pink so as to allow for them being digitalized apparently. the hyab truck was in place to maybe film up the rapids, anyway, they used both ends of the rapids to do the job, as you will see. there are big barrels on the truck, plus a small one, I guess for scaling for Hobbit size?? A couple of pics also of the crew, both safty and filming by the looks of it having smoko.
Dont’ forget to see all the photos after the break!
In this episode of Hobbit in 5 we take a look at ways you can help New Zealand post earthquake, Aidan Turner, dwarf beards and more of those fanatic Hobbit character studies that you have grown to love.
From the guys at WETA: At Weta Collectibles, we of course follow the developments in Christchurch with a lump in our throats.
As a way to contribute and support where we can, we are auctioning three unique items on our eBay page and donating all proceeds to the New Zealand Red Cross Earthquake Appeal:
1. A Bag End Collector’s Edition miniature environment, signed by Peter Jackson
2. A Prancing Pony miniature environment, signed by Richard Taylor
3. A custom Dr Grordbort’s Raygun, signed by Greg Broadmore
Please join in the bidding in confidence that the proceeds will be well spent. Every last cent from these auctions will go straight to the New Zealand Red Cross Earthquake appeal. Find out about other ways to contribute to this appeal by going to their website: www.redcross.org.nz
The tremendous outpouring of support from common New Zealanders towards all those affected by the devastating earthquake in Christchurch brings to mind the words of Gandalf concerning Hobbits during the Long Winter:
“They were very hard put to it then: one of the worst pinches they have been in… but that was the time to see their courage, and their pity one for another.”
It’s times like these when we are called to put aside all differences, stand together as one, and let our true qualities shine through. Sir Peter Jackson is no exception. The Hollywood Reporter reports today that Jackson and the rest of the Hobbit production have stepped up to offer any practical assistance they can to their fellow New Zealanders and others affected by the tragedy. In a statement to the Hollywood Reporter, Jackson said:
“Everyone involved in the production of The Hobbit is shocked and saddened by the earthquake and it’s devastating aftermath. Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Christchurch and all those affected by this terrible tragedy.”
As reported on TheOneRing.net earlier today, you too can help no matter where you are; simply follow this link. Do keep the affected families in your thoughts and prayers.
TheOneRing.net is intimately tied to our friends in New Zealand. With the loss of life, injuries and damaged caused by the recent earthquake, we are all very concerned for our brothers and sisters. While you may be thousands of miles away, you can help. Here is a listing of charitable entities helping in the recovery efforts. We understand this is a tough economic time for many, but if you can, please support them.
Red Cross (NZ) (Redcross.org.nz) (At time of posting, not working)
If you are unable to donate, please send your well wishing and prayers for those affected by this latest tragedy. Thanks to Ringer Beowulf for posting this link list in a previous thread comments.
A few weeks back, we posted a story from the NZ Post about how the Aratiatia Rapids, a popular tourist destination, would be shut down for four days during peak tourist season for The Hobbit filming. Adding further credit to that report are these images from Ringer Spy Hobbitwatch. In the photos, you can see a crew performing some kind of tests with pink barrels at the Falls. Here is the full report from Ringer Spy Hobbitwatch:
From the guys at WETA: At Weta Collectibles, we of course follow the developments in Christchurch with a lump in our throats.
TheOneRing.net is intimately tied to our friends in New Zealand. With the loss of life, injuries and damaged caused by the recent earthquake, we are all very concerned for our brothers and sisters. While you may be thousands of miles away, you can help. Here is a listing of charitable entities helping in the recovery efforts. We understand this is a tough economic time for many, but if you can, please support them.