No expense spared for King Kong wrap party

New York was brought to Wellington on the weekend with an ape-sized carnival to celebrate the end of King Kong filming.

Oscar-winning director Peter Jackson hosted more than 1000 people at the film's elaborate 1930s New York set at the Wellington suburb of Seaview on Saturday.

Every person involved in the movie - from Hollywood stars to construction staff - were invited to the no-expense-spared carnival-themed family event.

New Zealand musician Neil Finn performed with his son Liam, drummer for band Betchadupa, and bands Goldenhorse and Fat Freddy's Drop also played.

It is understood a VIP marquee housed stars Jack Black and Adrien Brody, but Jackson endeared himself by mixing and mingling with the crowd. Australian actress Naomi Watts was in Sydney for the premiere of her latest movie, The Ring 2.

According to one partygoer, Jackson was dancing and made sure he spoke to everyone.

"It was a really happy atmosphere and none of this senior staff and junior staff stuff. Everyone was mingling and in great spirits."

The party was "just like a proper carnival" with giant fairytale characters wandering the streets and a ferris wheel and merry-go-round for children.

American hotdogs, burgers and mini-kebabs were handed out and a well-stocked bar was popular.

"It was absolutely amazing. It was top-of-the-line catering, the whole works. It's just the way Pete does things -- puts on a huge party like this because everyone works so hard and sweats blood on the film."

A never-ending supply of bananas were on hand as a tribute to giant ape King Kong.

"Everything was that 1930s grey but with bright yellow bunches of bananas everywhere. It was great."

The event finished at 6pm but it is understood several after-parties were held around Wellington.

Filming on the $200 million remake finished about three weeks ago and the set is due to be taken down this week. The movie is due for release in December.

- NZPA