New Zealanders have hit the streets in an extraordinary show of support for the Hobbit movie which is due to start shooting in the country next year.
Thousands of Kiwis came out in protest at suggestions that filming might have to go elsewhere following acting unions' threats to boycott the movie over wages. The threat has since been lifted.
But a source close to Warner Brothers - who are making the film - said; "I think this can be settles very simply and quickly.
"After all, New Zealand clearly has the largest population of hobbits in the world and obviously we're going to need loads of extras.
"It's sweet that the people of New Zealand are so keen to see the film made here. But it is puzzling why no hobbits were among the protesters.
"I suppose they do want us to employ them?"
