Where was Pete’s Dragon filmed? Embark on an enchanting journey with PETS.EDU.VN to uncover the breathtaking landscapes that brought the heartwarming tale of Pete and Elliot to life, exploring the real-world settings that inspired this cinematic gem. Discover how New Zealand’s stunning scenery played a pivotal role in creating the film’s magical atmosphere, with insights into the specific locations that served as the backdrop for this beloved story about friendship and adventure. This film production showcase and scenery insight will leave you spellbound.
1. New Zealand: The Perfect Backdrop for Pete’s Dragon
1.1. Why New Zealand? The Director’s Vision
Director David Lowery chose New Zealand as the sole filming location for Pete’s Dragon because of its diverse landscapes and “timeless quality”. He wanted a location that could be easily transformed into a 1980s American small town, and New Zealand offered that versatility.
“New Zealand was the perfect place to film Pete’s Dragon because it feels timeless in the same way that the movie does. It doesn’t feel like it belongs to any specific era,” Lowery explained. “You can walk outside, walk fifty feet down the road, and feel like you’re in the middle of a forest that’s been around since the beginning of time. We wanted to tap into that, we wanted to utilize that.”
1.2. Economic Impact and Government Incentives
The production of Pete’s Dragon brought significant economic benefits to New Zealand, with over $87 million in qualifying spend. The film qualified for the New Zealand Screen Production Grant (NZSPG), which offers a 20% cash rebate on Qualifying New Zealand Production Expenditure (QNZPE). This incentive encourages filmmakers to choose New Zealand as a filming location, boosting the country’s thriving screen industry and tourism sector.
1.3. Collaborative Marketing Partnership
A collaborative marketing partnership agreement between Tourism New Zealand, Film New Zealand, and Walt Disney Pictures further enhanced the film’s impact. This partnership showcased New Zealand’s creative ability as a screen production location while promoting the country’s tourism industry. The agreement ensured that at least 90% of the shoot would be located in New Zealand, with six key personnel roles and 75% of the crew roles filled by New Zealanders. Additionally, Walt Disney Pictures provided a skills and talent development program, including creative mentorship for a team of New Zealand writers and an associate producer role for an emerging New Zealand producer.
2. Key Filming Locations in New Zealand
2.1. Stone Street Studios, Wellington
Production began with two weeks at Stone Street Studios in Wellington, the studio founded by filmmaker Sir Peter Jackson. This studio provided a controlled environment for initial scenes before moving to various outdoor locations.
2.2. Wellington and the Hutt Valley
The area surrounding Wellington, including the Hutt Valley, played a significant role in the film’s production. Specific locations included:
- Hutt Hospital: Used for various scenes requiring a hospital setting.
- Heretanga: This location offered picturesque landscapes for outdoor scenes.
- Rata Road: Another scenic area used for filming.
- Hutt River: Provided a natural water feature for scenes.
- Battle Hill Farm Park: This park offered diverse terrain, including forests and open fields, suitable for various scenes.
2.3. Rotorua and Tokoroa: The Enchanted Forest
The forest scenes were primarily shot in a forestry area near Rotorua and Tokoroa in the Central North Island. This area is home to giant Californian Redwoods, which perfectly doubled for the American forests depicted in the film.
2.4. Ngongotaha, Rotorua
Three days were spent filming in a house on the outskirts of Rotorua in Ngongotaha. The cast and crew were largely based in Rotorua during this part of the shoot.
2.5. Tapanui: Millhaven Comes to Life
The quaint town of Tapanui in West Otago was transformed into the fictional town of Millhaven. Many local businesses were temporarily converted to fit the film’s 1980s setting. The town’s main street was closed off for a week, and several locals were cast as extras. The nearby Conical Hill sawmill was also utilized.
2.6. Queenstown: Majestic Aerial Views
Queenstown’s mountainous landscape was captured both on the ground and from above. Aerial footage taken by helicopter was used to depict Elliot’s flight. The film’s final scenes took place at Deer Park Heights, overlooking Lake Wakatipu.
3. The Magic of New Zealand’s Light
3.1. Unique Lighting Conditions
Director David Lowery emphasized the unique light in New Zealand as a major drawcard for filming there.
“As you make films in different parts of the world, you realize that light everywhere is a little bit different. And in New Zealand it definitely is a little bit brighter,” Lowery noted. “It feels like you walk outside, and you can feel your eyes adjusting to the light in a different way, and the cameras have to do the same thing. And it just gave those redwoods that we were shooting in a majesty that they wouldn’t have had otherwise.”
3.2. Enhancing the Surreal Beauty
The unique light in New Zealand contributed to the film’s surreal and beautiful aesthetic. It made the landscapes appear more magical and enhanced the visual impact of the scenes.
“When you look at the raw footage of this kid running through the woods, it feels like it’s got special effects, but it was just the light—it felt completely surreal and beautiful, and we just turned the cameras on and captured it,” Lowery added.
4. Visual Effects and Elliot’s Creation
4.1. Weta Digital’s Role
Weta Digital, the visual effects company founded by filmmakers Peter Jackson and Richard Taylor, played a crucial role in bringing Elliot the dragon to life. Approximately 150 Weta Digital staff members were involved, with 30 core members dedicated to the project.
4.2. Creating a Believable Dragon
Filmmakers wanted Elliot to connect emotionally with the audience despite his enormous size (50-foot long, 3 tonnes) and fantastical features (20 million hairs with 8” claws). Weta Digital’s animators worked to make him expressive yet deeply rooted in animalistic behaviors. This helped the audience relate to him, much like they would a pet.
4.3. Animalistic Inspirations
To create Elliot’s movements, Weta Digital used extensive real-world references from various animals, including cats, dogs, elephants, lions, foxes, eagles, albatrosses, and meerkats. His flying style, which involved “paddling” through the air, was inspired by footage of a polar bear swimming. His “invisibility,” which allowed him to blend into the background, was based on the way a cuttlefish uses camouflage to hide in plain sight.
4.4. Slimming Down Elliot
Elliot had to be slimmed down to fit into the New Zealand landscape, particularly the forest scenes. This adjustment ensured that he looked natural and believable within the environment.
5. The New Zealand Crew: A Pillar of the Production
5.1. Professionalism and Dedication
Over 800 crew members worked on Pete’s Dragon, with Director David Lowery praising their professionalism and positive attitude. He expressed a desire to film all his movies in New Zealand to work with the crews there.
“I feel New Zealand crews are consummate professionals and knew exactly what they were doing. They did their jobs better than any crew I’ve ever worked with. They were so chilled out and so laid back and so happy to come to work every day and so cheerful,” Lowery said.
5.2. Collaborative Environment
Executive producer Barrie Osborne also shared this sentiment, believing the combination of the landscapes and people make New Zealand a desirable destination to make films.
“New Zealand was the perfect place to film both for its environment but also for the people and the attitude of the place. There are beautiful forests, incredible untouched land,” Osborne noted. “You know, working on Pete’s Dragon just reconfirms what I know and love about New Zealand. People are innovative, enthusiastic, and it feels more like you’re working with a really collaborative group of people that all have one interest, and that’s to make the best possible film we can make.”
5.3. Ideal Filming Location
According to President of Walt Disney Studios Motion Picture Production Sean Bailey, New Zealand was ideal for several reasons.
“New Zealand was ideal for a number of reasons. The scenery is unique, the crews are of the highest caliber, the New Zealand people are amazing, and the actors just love coming here,” Bailey stated.
6. Pete’s Dragon: A Reimagining of a Classic
6.1. The Story
Pete’s Dragon is a reimagining of the 1977 Disney classic. It tells the adventure of an orphaned boy named Pete and his best friend Elliot, who happens to be a dragon. The film is directed by David Lowery and stars Bryce Dallas Howard, Oakes Fegley, Wes Bentley, Karl Urban, Oona Laurence, and Robert Redford.
6.2. Emotional Connection
The film aims to create an emotional connection with the audience through the heartwarming story of Pete and Elliot. The stunning New Zealand landscapes enhance the film’s magical and adventurous atmosphere.
7. Exploring the Filming Locations Today
7.1. Visiting Wellington
Visitors to Wellington can explore Stone Street Studios and the Hutt Valley, experiencing the landscapes that served as the backdrop for key scenes in the movie. Battle Hill Farm Park offers a chance to immerse oneself in the natural beauty that inspired the filmmakers.
7.2. The Redwoods of Rotorua
The Redwoods of Rotorua are a must-visit for fans of the film. Walking through these towering trees provides a sense of the scale and majesty that the filmmakers sought to capture.
7.3. Experiencing Tapanui
A visit to Tapanui offers a glimpse into the charming town that was transformed into Millhaven. While the film set is no longer in place, the town’s character and surrounding landscapes remain captivating.
7.4. Queenstown’s Scenic Views
Queenstown’s Deer Park Heights provides stunning views of Lake Wakatipu, offering a chance to stand in the location where the film’s final scenes were shot. The area’s mountainous landscape is a testament to the natural beauty that drew the filmmakers to New Zealand.
8. The Lasting Impact of Pete’s Dragon on New Zealand
8.1. Boosting Tourism
The film’s stunning visuals have helped to boost tourism in New Zealand, with fans eager to visit the locations where Pete’s Dragon was filmed. The collaborative marketing partnership between Tourism New Zealand and Walt Disney Pictures has further promoted the country as a premier tourist destination.
8.2. Showcasing New Zealand’s Film Industry
Pete’s Dragon‘s success has showcased New Zealand’s film industry, highlighting the country’s skilled crews, diverse landscapes, and supportive government incentives. This has attracted more international film productions to New Zealand, contributing to the country’s economic growth.
8.3. Inspiring Future Filmmakers
The film has inspired future filmmakers in New Zealand, providing opportunities for skills and talent development through programs like the creative mentorship for New Zealand writers and the associate producer role for an emerging New Zealand producer.
9. Behind-the-Scenes Insights
9.1. Director’s Challenges
Director David Lowery faced the challenge of creating a film that would appeal to both children and adults while staying true to the spirit of the original Pete’s Dragon. He also had to balance the use of practical effects with CGI to create a believable dragon.
9.2. Casting and Performances
The film features strong performances from its cast, including Oakes Fegley as Pete and Bryce Dallas Howard as Grace. The actors had to create a believable connection with a CGI dragon, which required a great deal of imagination and skill.
9.3. The Music of Pete’s Dragon
The film’s soundtrack, composed by Daniel Hart, enhances the emotional impact of the story. The music blends seamlessly with the visuals to create a magical and adventurous atmosphere.
10. The Enduring Appeal of Pete’s Dragon
10.1. Themes of Friendship and Family
Pete’s Dragon explores themes of friendship, family, and belonging. The film’s heartwarming story resonates with audiences of all ages, making it a timeless classic.
10.2. Environmental Message
The film also conveys an environmental message, highlighting the importance of protecting our natural world. The New Zealand landscapes serve as a reminder of the beauty and fragility of our planet.
10.3. A Celebration of Imagination
Ultimately, Pete’s Dragon is a celebration of imagination and the power of storytelling. The film encourages viewers to believe in the impossible and to embrace the magic that exists in the world around us.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Where Pete’s Dragon Was Filmed
1. Was the entire movie Pete’s Dragon filmed in New Zealand?
Yes, the 2016 remake of Pete’s Dragon was filmed entirely in New Zealand, leveraging its diverse landscapes and skilled film crews.
2. Which specific locations in New Zealand were used for filming Pete’s Dragon?
Key locations included Stone Street Studios in Wellington, the Redwoods of Rotorua, the town of Tapanui (as Millhaven), and Deer Park Heights in Queenstown.
3. Why did the filmmakers choose New Zealand as the filming location?
Director David Lowery chose New Zealand for its “timeless quality,” diverse landscapes that could double as 1980s America, and the unique light that enhanced the film’s beauty.
4. How did the filming of Pete’s Dragon benefit New Zealand?
The production brought over $87 million in qualifying spend to New Zealand, boosted the country’s screen industry and tourism, and provided opportunities for local talent development.
5. Can I visit the filming locations of Pete’s Dragon in New Zealand?
Yes, many of the filming locations are accessible to the public, including the Redwoods of Rotorua, Battle Hill Farm Park near Wellington, and Deer Park Heights in Queenstown.
6. What role did Weta Digital play in the making of Pete’s Dragon?
Weta Digital, founded by Peter Jackson, created Elliot the dragon using advanced CGI, ensuring he connected emotionally with the audience despite his fantastical features.
7. How did the New Zealand crews contribute to the success of Pete’s Dragon?
Director David Lowery praised the New Zealand crews for their professionalism, dedication, and positive attitude, stating they were the best he had ever worked with.
8. What was the collaborative marketing partnership for Pete’s Dragon?
Tourism New Zealand, Film New Zealand, and Walt Disney Pictures partnered to showcase New Zealand as a screen production location, promoting the country’s tourism industry and creative ability.
9. What is the New Zealand Screen Production Grant (NZSPG) and how did it affect Pete’s Dragon?
The NZSPG offers a 20% cash rebate on qualifying expenditure, encouraging filmmakers to choose New Zealand. Pete’s Dragon qualified for this grant, bringing significant economic benefits to the country.
10. How did the unique light in New Zealand enhance the film?
The unique light in New Zealand added a surreal and beautiful quality to the landscapes, enhancing the visual impact of the scenes and contributing to the film’s magical atmosphere.
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