Aoraki Mount Cook. Photo: Supplied/Les Molloy
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park will provide the backdrop for a movie about Sherpa Tenzing Norgay's world-first summit of Mount Everest with Sir Edmund Hillary.
The Department of Conservation (DOC) approved filming on Malte Brun Pass near the Tasman Glacier and near the Hochstetter Icefall on the eastern side of the mountain, which would double as Everest base camp and the famous Hillary Step on the world's highest peak.
DOC ranger Ray Bellringer said while the sites had previously been used for Everest-related documentaries and films, the movie's producers had to adhere to strict rules.
"All filming activities are subject to strict environmental conditions to ensure the protection of the natural landscape. DOC staff will be onsite daily to monitor compliance," he said.
"This is an incredibly special place and it's our role to protect it."
Bellringer said New Zealand and Nepal had a long relationship through the Himalayan Trust, particularly since 70 Nepalese students including many Sherpa had come to study nature-based tourism and community conservation at Lincoln University since 1953.
"Sir Edmund Hillary dedicated much of his life after 1953 to supporting Nepalese communities. It is fitting that this project recognises the life and contributions of Tenzing Norgay and we are proud to provide a setting that supports this storytelling," he said.
Tenzing Norgay with Sir Edmund Hillary. Photo: AFP
Apple won the rights to the film Tenzing during an auction at Cannes Film Festival in May 2024.
The company will co-produce the film with production company See-Saw Films for worldwide release on streaming platform Apple TV+ at an unknown date.
BAFTA-nominated director Jennifer Peedom has a pre-existing connection to the Norgay family, who contributed to her documentaries Miracle on Everest and Sherpa.
The script has been written by Luke Davies, known for the 2016 film Lion, which landed him an Academy Award nomination for best screenplay.
Genden Phuntsok is to star as Norgay inTenzing, while Hollywood star Tom Hiddleston will play Sir Edmund.
Academy Award nominee Willem Defoe has been cast as English expedition leader John Hunt.
The production is expected to bring a significant economic boost to the region, with a large production crew and cast staying at the village.
Filming has concluded in Nepal and will begin in New Zealand next month.
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