Peter Jackson Influence

Most people have seen the Lord of the Rings films and will be aware of the magnificent showcase of stunning scenery the films gave New Zealand. Fewer, however, will be aware of other influences the Director has had on New Zealand.

Te Papa Museum in Wellington and the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre in Blenheim are classic examples of Peter Jackson’s artistry being used to the benefit of his country, both of which we took time to visit on this trip.

Te Papa houses a simply breathtaking exhibition on Gallipoli. The exhibit was designed by Peter Jackson and his influence is clear. I have visited many museums about the first and second world wars but few have been quite so powerful and stirred emotions as much as this one. For a start, it is so very personal. The vignettes on the walls show the relevance of the items it displays with the personal touch of a real life story. The history of that particular pair of binoculars, or that pair of boots, or that radio. It was really well laid out and explained.

But what moved me most, was larger than life, waxwork figures depicting a moment of a person’s life in war with such reality and detail that you could almost reach out and touch their pain in the air. Such fine detail, even down to individual hairs on their skin and beads of sweat on their forehead. The photos don't really do it justice.

The Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre in Blenheim was also designed by Peter Jackson. Apparently he has an interest in collecting old aircraft and donated money to set up new exhibitions. He has even donated aircraft from his own collection. It is split into two parts, one for each world war, and includes a very loud Stalingrad experience which is quite interesting (if a little unsuitable for small children - Thomas waited outside). Again the museum features real life stories and the aircraft were displayed in relevant scenery making it much easier to picture the historical significance.

Definitely worth a visit.