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Wanaka Benifits From Incoming Cast Members

Wanaka has already benefited from the arrival yesterday of a production crew preparing to film the Lord of the Rings trilogy in the area.

The company chartered two flights into Wanaka Airport, with 14 crew members arriving on a twin-engined Origin Pacific Jetstream 31 aircraft and 40 passengers and luggage aboard an Air Chathams Convair 580 plane.

Airport manager Tim Johnston understood it was the first time either type of aircraft had landed at Wanaka.

"Both pilots said the airport was ideal and expressed interest in bringing more charter flights into Wanaka."

Mr Johnston said Chatham Air showed particular interest in providing charter flights during the winter ski season.

He admitted he would be touting for further business and planned discussions with both airlines.

Moteliers are also benefiting from the movie business, with around 100 Lord of the Rings film-crew members staying in town this week. The main production unit is expected in the area next week.