New Zealand: Welcome to Wellywood

I spent a day exploring the mini-film empire of Peter Jackson -- the modest but now famous complex of studios, post-production houses and special effects companies. Affectionately called "Wellywood," the facilities are all located on the Miramar peninsula just outside of Wellington. Best known among them are Weta Workshop and Weta Digital, the folks behind creating creatures, costumes and props for "Lord of the Rings," the Narnia films, and others. There's also a newly opened gift shop right near the Weta complex, called the Weta Cave, where fanboys and fangirls can buy figurines and swords and capes, and watch a behind-the-scenes video of Weta magic. As for glimpses into real filmmaking, as you'll see, I was not entirely successful gaining access. But nonetheless, here's a sneak peek at what I could weasel my way into.
Posted by Ethan Gilsdorf, Globe Correspondent