While James Cameron shot much of his Ocar-winning Avatar in U.S. locations, such as Kauai and the Big Island in Hawaii and the converted aircraft assembly plant in Playa Vista, CA where Howard Hughes built the Spruce Goose, many scenes were also shot at Stone Street Studios in Wellington, New Zealand, and virtually all of the special effects work was performed there at the famed Weta digital effects studio, cofounded by Peter Jackson. Now, it appears that New Zealand will be the home base for Cameron's sequel to Avatar. Published reports said today (Thursday) that Cameron has applied to buy 2,636 acres of farmland where he and his family "intend to reside indefinitely." In a statement, the Cameron family said, "We love the rugged landscape and the spirit of the people here, and are looking forward to becoming resident on our beautiful farm. We hope we will be accepted as good neighbours and good members of the community in South Wairarapa.''

02/02/2012