Wētā Workshop

Wētā Workshop World-class design and manufacture for films, games, collectibles, and attractions. NZ tourist destination, games studio and collectibles company.
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Academy Award-winning design & effects manufacturing facility servicing the world's creative industries.

01/04/2025

The Shire is full of hidden secrets and lost treasures. It’s also full of thoughtful details.

Tales of the Shire

Tonowari is proud, powerful and respected by his people as the leader of the Metkayina clan in James Cameron's 2022 film...
27/03/2025

Tonowari is proud, powerful and respected by his people as the leader of the Metkayina clan in James Cameron's 2022 film Avatar: The Way of Water.

He wears an impressive toa guard chest piece, a special garment, which is earned in a coming-of-age ceremony, much like the Omatikayan cummerbunds. This garment features delicate weaving dotted with darker-coloured custom faux Pandora fish scales and pāua pieces.

His ceremonial cape signals his status as leader, with intricate
netting, macrame, leather and polished shells. The look continues through to his loincloth with heavy leather fringing. An intricately carved and hand-woven pāua bracelet adorns his arm.

His costume, while prominent and commanding, is also constructed intentionally to showcase his tattoos which are emblematic of his clan, and are considered a gift from both Eywa and his people.

Led by the incredible costume designer Deborah Scott, our design and manufacture teams worked side by side to create these pieces.

Art director: Stephen Crowe
Concept artist: Tahiwi Trenor-Hunt
Na’vi costume art director: Flo Foxworthy
Na’vi artisans: Nadine Jaggi, Eve Gilliland, Tiger Kang, Lisa Doherty, Jay Otto, Pati Ahsue, Darin Gordine, Kate Venables, Carl Hobman

26/03/2025

Our latest Classic Series statue, Boromir, is available now!

As an added treasure, the first 400 collectors to order with us online or at the Wētā Cave will receive an exclusive 1:4 scale Horn of Gondor prop replica.

Claim yours before it’s gone: https://www.wetanz.com/boromir-classic-with-horn

25/03/2025

Wētā Workshop has been trusted with J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth for more than 25 years. We can’t wait for you to join this peaceful corner of the Shire.

Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/s3hIqt2QZRg

Tales of the Shire

Can’t wait for M3GAN 2.0? Neither can we. Before the sequel to 2022’s killer-doll horror hits cinemas in June, here’s a ...
23/03/2025

Can’t wait for M3GAN 2.0? Neither can we. Before the sequel to 2022’s killer-doll horror hits cinemas in June, here’s a look back at some of our design studio’s work on the first film.

Working closely with director Gerard Johnstone, we helped conceptualise M3GAN’s costumes. Gerard wanted to pursue something more unexpected than existing killer doll tropes and come up with outfits that would be bright, stylish and believable for a girl of M3GAN’s age. The idea: you could buy your child the coolest, smartest best friend, and her outfits would be just as sophisticated. We then put together a couple of the film’s keyframes, because when M3GAN isn’t slashing (i.e. going after Gemma with a meat thermometer), she’s serving.

M3GAN 2.0 is in theatres on June 27.

Concept artist: Tahiwi Trenor-Hunt

19/03/2025

The trials of wit and wonder have concluded, and a victor stands triumphant!

Monique P, your prowess has earned you the grand prize—our Boromir Classic Series statue shall soon be yours. We’ll be in touch to ensure it finds its way to you, its rightful keeper.

Those eyes. The hair. That GRIN. These pearly whites and slick coiffure belong to Cosmo, a sweet yellow robot in the new...
15/03/2025

Those eyes. The hair. That GRIN. These pearly whites and slick coiffure belong to Cosmo, a sweet yellow robot in the new sci-fi saga The Electric State, directed by Anthony and Joe Russo and based on Simon Stålenhag’s 2018 graphic novel of the same name. Set in a dystopian version of the ‘90s, Cosmo joins an orphaned teen called Michelle as she goes in search of her lost brother in the wake of a robot uprising.

Wētā Workshop had the pleasure of traversing this alt-historical landscape with production designer Richard Johnson, building a series of full-size poseable Cosmos that could be used for over-the-shoulder shots and as VFX lighting reference busts, as well as some small-scale Cosmo props.

Supplied with his beaming design and a VFX 3D model, we created a 3D model for manufacture as the start of our build process, then set out to resolve how Cosmo’s range of motion could work. The answer came in the form of camera gear — specifically, their ball-and-socket joints, which worked effortlessly for his shoulders, elbows, wrists and knees. Cosmo then had his final components 3D-printed, finished, textured and painted to make sure he was all smiles.

The Electric State is out now on Netflix.

AGBO

13/03/2025

When we were working on a bunch of killer robots with director kyle Mooney and writer Evan Winter for the A24 film Y2K, one of the key things we kept in mind was making sure we created something that not only looked cool but functioned well too. Here’s a closer look at the design journey to a cabled-up, set-ready suit.

🚨 Free Shipping ends March 31st! Rare collectibles selling fast! 🚨Time is running out to claim free shipping on select t...
12/03/2025

🚨 Free Shipping ends March 31st! Rare collectibles selling fast! 🚨

Time is running out to claim free shipping on select treasures—including King Aragorn, Minas Tirith, and the Black Gates.

After March 31st, this deal disappears: https://www.wetanz.com/shop/free-shipping

Meanwhile, our End of Line sale items are dwindling. Lurtz Figure of Fandom, Frodo Baggins Ringbearer, and Gollum Guide to Mordor are selling fast—once they’re gone, they may be gone for good.

Act fast or miss out: https://www.wetanz.com/shop/end-of-line

Here's a sneak peek of our upcoming Boromir Classic Series statue. 👀In celebration, we're giving one lucky collector the...
11/03/2025

Here's a sneak peek of our upcoming Boromir Classic Series statue. 👀

In celebration, we're giving one lucky collector the chance to win! To enter, recreate or reinterpret Boromir’s legendary “One does not simply…” moment in your own way.

A meme, a video, even a dramatic reading—The most creative or hilarious entry wins the grand prize. Add your entries to the comments below or send your entries to [email protected] by March 18th (NZT).

Terms and Conditions apply: https://tinyurl.com/4svpneke

Did you know that driftwood found on the beach in New Zealand by costume designer Deborah Scott was carved to form one o...
11/03/2025

Did you know that driftwood found on the beach in New Zealand by costume designer Deborah Scott was carved to form one of Tsireya’s costumes in James Cameron's 2022 film Avatar: The Way of Water?

This elegant garment features more than 10,000 beads, chips of pāua shell and pearls. The beads create great movement and sparkle, giving it a magical quality in water, while the driftwood and freshwater pearl added a balance of organic elements.

Art director: Stephen Crowe
Concept artist: Iona Brinch
Na’vi costume art director: Flo Foxworthy
Na’vi artisans: Kate Venables, Carl Hobman, Pati Ahsue

In collaboration with Warhammer, Skragrott the Loonking rises from the gloom, summoned by the skilled hands of our maste...
10/03/2025

In collaboration with Warhammer, Skragrott the Loonking rises from the gloom, summoned by the skilled hands of our master artisans.

Each sinister detail tells his story—his snarling squigs, the Bad Moon’s mark upon his cloak, his skull-topped wand. And then, there is him—his malice yet to be fully realised, the base coat of paint a mere whisper of the madness to come.

This is more than a statue. It is devotion to the craft. To the legend. To the Loonking.

Pre-order at: https://www.wetanz.com/skragrott-the-loonking

07/03/2025

How did we create an evolving character out of household appliances?

For the A24 film Y2K, we worked alongside collaborators director Kyle Mooney and writer Evan Winter to create a couple of killer robots that terrorise a group of teens on the eve of the millennium.

Here’s a closer look at the evolution of Screen Slayer, and our process of testing to show how it can look and move on screen. While it looks like a robot, the fully evolved piece is technically a performer suit, featuring an animatronic headlight, puppeteerable head and arms, and a detachable stunt spike.

Collectors, an opportunity of utmost importance presents itself...We’re offering exclusive sneak peeks of our upcoming G...
06/03/2025

Collectors, an opportunity of utmost importance presents itself...

We’re offering exclusive sneak peeks of our upcoming Green Dragon Inn and Cirith Ungol collectible environments—but only to those who sign up!

Being part of our regular newsletter won’t be enough to gain access. To be a part of the journey, you must sign up using the dedicated links below.

Green Dragon Inn, Limited Edition Environment: https://email.wetanz.co.nz/p/6XI1-D7K/green-dragon-inn

Cirith Ungol, Limited Edition Environment: https://email.wetanz.co.nz/p/6XI1-D7M/cirith-ungol

Meet our ✨ head ✨ of prosthetics.Karyoon Kim, Head of Prosthetics at Wētā Workshop, spent roughly 30 hours creating a re...
05/03/2025

Meet our ✨ head ✨ of prosthetics.

Karyoon Kim, Head of Prosthetics at Wētā Workshop, spent roughly 30 hours creating a replica of herself — a silicone simulacrum with painted features (entirely her handiwork) and human hair (partially her own).

To make this Karyoon copy, our prosthetics expert had her head life casted. Her plaster cast was then 3D scanned, digitally shrunk and 3D printed, before being molded and cast out of silicone. This meant she could practice different hair-punching techniques while having a reference there in the mirror whenever she needed it.

“Do not come between a Nazgûl and his prey.”The Witch-king of Angmar has arrived; the Dark Lord’s most fearsome servant,...
04/03/2025

“Do not come between a Nazgûl and his prey.”

The Witch-king of Angmar has arrived; the Dark Lord’s most fearsome servant, armed with flail and blade.

A moment of power, frozen in time. The Witch-king Miniature Statue is now available for pre-order: www.wetanz.com/witch-king-miniature-statue

03/03/2025

Skragrott the Loonking is here—his madness, his malice, his obsession brought to life in our latest 1:6 Scale Limited Edition Statue in collaboration with Warhammer.

Watch as we unveil the wicked detail and sinister presence of the Gloomspite Gitz’ cunning ruler.

Pre-order now: https://www.wetanz.com/skragrott-the-loonking

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1 Weka Street
Wellington
6022

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+6449094000

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The Shire is full of hidden secrets and lost treasures. It’s also full of thoughtful details. Tales of the Shire #cozy #hobbit #talesoftheshire #cozygaming #lotr

Our latest Classic Series statue, Boromir, is available now! As an added treasure, the first 400 collectors to order with us online or at the Wētā Cave will receive an exclusive 1:4 scale Horn of Gondor prop replica. Claim yours before it’s gone: https://www.wetanz.com/boromir-classic-with-horn

Wētā Workshop has been trusted with J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth for more than 25 years. We can’t wait for you to join this peaceful corner of the Shire. Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/s3hIqt2QZRg Tales of the Shire #cozy #hobbit #talesoftheshire #cozygaming #lotr

The trials of wit and wonder have concluded, and a victor stands triumphant! Monique P, your prowess has earned you the grand prize—our Boromir Classic Series statue shall soon be yours. We’ll be in touch to ensure it finds its way to you, its rightful keeper.

When we were working on a bunch of killer robots with director kyle Mooney and writer Evan Winter for the A24 film Y2K, one of the key things we kept in mind was making sure we created something that not only looked cool but functioned well too. Here’s a closer look at the design journey to a cabled-up, set-ready suit. #a24 #Y2K #wetaworkshop

How did we create an evolving character out of household appliances? For the A24 film Y2K, we worked alongside collaborators director Kyle Mooney and writer Evan Winter to create a couple of killer robots that terrorise a group of teens on the eve of the millennium. Here’s a closer look at the evolution of Screen Slayer, and our process of testing to show how it can look and move on screen. While it looks like a robot, the fully evolved piece is technically a performer suit, featuring an animatronic headlight, puppeteerable head and arms, and a detachable stunt spike. #a24 #Y2K #wetaworkshop #robotics #animatronics #props

Warhammer Age of Sigmar | Skragrott the Loonking, 1:6 Scale Limited Edition Statue
Warhammer Age of Sigmar | Skragrott the Loonking, 1:6 Scale Limited Edition Statue

Skragrott the Loonking is here—his madness, his malice, his obsession brought to life in our latest 1:6 Scale Limited Edition Statue in collaboration with Warhammer. Watch as we unveil the wicked detail and sinister presence of the Gloomspite Gitz’ cunning ruler. Pre-order now: https://www.wetanz.com/skragrott-the-loonking

I like the way you move. Motion capture plays a big role in our robotic and animatronic work. For one of our most recent animatronic projects for Europa-Park in Germany, we used motion capture to animate our Nikola Tesla robot. We called on specialist actor Luke Hawker to bring Tesla’s character to life through performance capture, while our software team developed custom programmes to translate his movements for animation. Tesla can speak in English, German, and French, with meticulously synchronised lip movements to match each language’s audio for a fully immersive experience. You can see Nikola Tesla in action at Europa-Park in Germany at the Voltron Nevera experience. MACK One #wetaworkshop #mackone #europapark #animatronics #robotics #nikolatesla

It's time to party like it’s 1999! In A24 ’s film Y2K, director Kyle Mooney and writer Evan Winter reimagine the dawn of a new millennium with a bunch of killer monster robots gone rogue thanks to the Y2K bug. The story follows a gang of '90s teens starring actors Jaeden Martell, Rachel Zegler, Fred Durst, The Kid Laroi, Tim Heidecker and New Zealand’s own Julian Dennison, as they gear up for the biggest party of their life... or potentially their last. We designed and built three “robots” for this fun feature film that celebrates the pop culture from that the time. Watch the full video of our crew sharing some behind-the-scenes moments from the builds, now on YouTube. 🔗 https://youtu.be/-spe4LzxL_c #a24 #Y2K #wetaworkshop #robotics #animatronics #props

Never get between a seal and the sea. Secrets at Red Rocks, the family adventure series adapted from New Zealand author Rachael King’s award-winning novel and filmed on the beautiful, rugged south coast of Wellington, is out on March 9. @libertinepictures #wetaworkshop #secretsatredrocks #props #film

Gerd Dörflinger, Team Leader of the Sculpture and Decoration Workshop at Europa-Park, kindly sent us a copy of the sculpture that he had done of Nikola Tesla, as it was important that all three Tesla’s being used at the park shared similar likenesses. We then focussed on creating a digital sculpture to generate a high-resolution 3D-printed mould from which we could pull a life-like silicon skin. This precise mould-making process, combined with an intricate paint finish, can achieve realistic skin colour and textures. To complete his look, our team hand-punched individual hairs into his silicon head and then styled it to match that of the original Nikola Tesla. You can see our Nikola Tesla in action at the Voltron Nevera Experience at Europa-Park. #wetaworkshop #mackone #europapark #animatronics #robotics #nikolatesla

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We make cool stuff!

Weta Workshop is a five-time Academy Award®-winning concept design studio and physical effects manufacturing facility that services the world’s entertainment and creative industries. For over 20 years, we have applied our creativity and craftsmanship to blockbuster films and hit television series including The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit motion picture trilogies, Blade Runner 2049, Saban’s Power Rangers, King Kong, Avatar, The Chronicles of Narnia, District 9, Elysium, Thunderbirds Are Go, and Ghost in the Shell.

In additional to our film and television projects, we’re also an international tourist destination, producer of consumer products from Middle-earth (and far beyond), behind-the-scenes and media production facility, and creator of public sculptures and immersive exhibition experiences like the record-breaking Gallipoli: The scale of our war, at New Zealand’s national museum, Te Papa. Creativity, innovation, and authenticity are the threads that tie this diverse mix of offerings into one fantastical whole.

On March 19, 2018, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern officially opened our brand new, world-leading mixed reality facility: Weta Gameshop. Together with groundbreaking Florida technology company Magic Leap, we’re forging new frontiers in mixed reality as we create Dr. Grordbort’s Invaders for Magic Leap’s spatial computing platform.

From humble beginnings in the back room of their flat, co-founders Richard Taylor and Tania Rodger have built Weta Workshop into what it is today. Richard, Tania, and the wider Weta Workshop crew regularly go on the road to meet film buffs and lovers of cool stuff worldwide!