14 Oct 2010

Hobbit film disputants agree to work together

4:46 pm on 14 October 2010

A meeting took place on Thursday between those involved in a standoff about actors' employment on the upcoming Hobbit films.

The dispute has raised uncertainty about whether the films will still be shot in New Zealand.

The Screen Production and Development Association, Actors' Equity and Council of Trade Unions representatives attended the meeting, which was facilitated by Economic Development Minister Gerry Brownlee.

A statement from the parties says that after a useful and productive discussion they have agreed to work together to update the conditions of engagement for performers in the film industry.

They say this process will help ensure New Zealand remains an attractive screen production environment.

No further comment is being made.