The following are all the best feature articles and key news posting of the 2004 year. The goal of the SWNZ website, as well as being to bring you regular Star Wars news and stories, is to establish and evolve an archive of all things pertaining to that Galaxy far, far away, that have particular relevance to the various incarnations of Star Wars fandom in New Zealand. This page is a portal to such content...
Matt G
Welcome back from the Christmas holidays. I hope everyone had a good break (making use of the limited good weather), and maybe even received or gave some Star Wars collectibles amongst presents exchanged (I was lucky enough to be given an excellent Master Replicas Darth Maul 0.45 scale saber - that line from MR is a set of very presentable collectibles!)
With the extra days off work, I finally found the time and motivation to put the finishing touches on my Star Wars display room (there is still space for Episode 3 stuff!) I moved in to this house over 6 months ago, and dedicated one of the spare bedrooms as a display arena for figures and vehicles...but it took a lot longer than anticipated to set things up. There are tables and shelving up every wall, approximately 2 dozen spacecraft suspended... ...MORE
Matt G
The article on New Zealand Star Wars licensees Bing Harris Sargood Ltd has been updated with some imagery from their 1983 store displays... ...MORE
Matt G
Talk about a protracted project - still, if it were easy, it'd be boring. The intention remains to get this all-aluminium astromech finished before the Episode 3 opening - with a bit of luck he'll be on display at the charity premiere. With a good few public holidays imminent, I have some time and motivation to make some prop project progress, so here's a quick installment to chronicle the current state of affairs.
As you can see above, the dome is finished save for the electronics... MORE
Related article: Part Two, Artoo Blue.
Matt G
Competition no.13 features prizes of genuine promotional Episode 3 Teaser posters for competition number 13, direct from our friends at 20th Century Fox Films. These fantastic pieces of art are impressive at a huge 68.5cm x 101.5cm size. They are inked both sides (for backlit display in cinemas), and, on the reverse side, carry a small watermark representation of the Lucasfilm logo (invisible when looking directly at the poster) as proof of originality. Two of these desirable 'Revenge of the Sith' collectibles were up for grabs - entry involved the completion of a quote from each of the released Star Wars feature films. ...MORE
Matt G
Competition number 12 was all about promoting the new Star Wars miniatures and miniature gaming from Wizards of the Coast. The competition required the listing of 3 of the characters represented as figures in the first release from WotC, the 'Rebel Storm' set. The correct answers are any covered in the... ...MORE
Matt G
More photos and details from the recent Christchurch swap meet, this time from Centuri Chan... ...MORE
Matt G
Nick TePaa has sent in pics of the attendees and merchandise from another successful Christchurch Swap Meet. ...MORE
Matt G
The feature articles on Bluebird Multipack Episode 1 Cards and Bluebird Chips Episode 1 Cards in the New Zealand Collection section have been updated with new images of related advertising material (thanks to Stephen Williams)
In 1999, Bluebird chips released 2 sets of collectible cards: a gold-bordered series with glow-in-the-dark images on the back of each card, and a red-bordered series with chrome-bordered variations. The red-bordered cards are interesting in that, depending on how you want to categorise them, they could be considered as one, two, or four "sets". There are 36 red-bordered cards, but in two sizes (the first 18 are 48 x 66mm, the second 18 are a mere 30 x 40mm) with continuous numbering. And then, there are a further 36, again in two sizes, identical to the red-bordered cards save for their chrome/silver borders... ...MORE
Matt G
Today's addition to the NZ Collection section employs an approach slightly different from previous entries, and takes a manufacturer-oriented look at a significant New Zealand Star Wars license-holder from the early 1980s.
Bing Harris Sargood Ltd was perhaps one of New Zealand's most prolific manufacturer of varied Star Wars merchandise. Unfortunately, because the company is long since extinct, and the fact that many of their products didn't clearly bear their name, the compilation of a complete list of their Star Wars wares is very difficult.
Bing Harris Sargood Ltd was formed in 1972 by the merger of rival soft goods firms Bing Harris and company and Sargoods. BHS was acquired in 1981 by Brierley Investments Ltd (BIL, now Brierley International Ltd). Throught the 1980s, BIL reengineered its strategy to focus on a core of trading subsidiaries and associated companies. Bing Harris Sargood was a casualty of this transformation, and was broken up in 1984 - unfortunately only the year after it had begun manufacturing Star Wars collectibles... ...MORE
Matt G
The feature article on Quality Bakers Cards in the New Zealand Collection section has been updated with a new image of related advertising material.
Star Wars memorabilia offered with another staple food item: the Quality Bakers bread cards. This set of collectible cards came out in 1997, in conjunction with a promotion and competition that coincided with the availability of the Original Trilogy on VHS. Indeed, Star Wars videos were amongst the prizes, as were lesser, but instant, awards of watches and yo-yos. The competition was topped with a $10,000 cash draw.
Ten numbered cards (of a fairly standard size: 57 x 85mm) depict our favourite heroes, and a couple of equally reknown anti-heroes, from classic movie scenes and publicity shots. Made from fairly lightweight cardstock...
...MORE
Matt G
Reminder: swap meet this weekend! The pics above are of Cen and friends out to promote it at the South City shopping mall.
Toy and Collectables Swapmeet
Phillipstown School Hall, Nursery Rd (off Ferry Road)
Saturday 27th November 10am - 2pm
Gold coin entry... ...MORE
Centuri Chan and Nick TePaa
Another review has shown in today's NZ Herald. Four stars are awarded. "Battlefront turns the Star Wars universe into a huge game that scores heavily on graphics and sound. And that will delight the legions of fans of the saga"...
Read the article in its entirity here.
Matt G
There's a review of the 'Star Wars: Battlefront' on the Coke.co.nz website: "In all its radiant essence this has got to be one of these sweetest games this year, maybe it's the fan boy speaking from deep inside me but I believe Star Wars Battlefront just redefined 'cool'. Inform the troops, lord Vader has arrived".
Read it in its entirity here.
Buzz Bumble
This addition to the NZ Collection section covers the New Zealand release of an international product, and hence is filed in the Miscellanea sub-category: Almost all Star Wars fans who were around between 1979 and 1984 will immediately recognise the particular shade of pink bordering the above images. For nearly a full five years, every seven days the New Zealand Woman's Weekly magazine would bring a full-colour dose of your favourite characters in exciting new adventures - some definitely well-expanded beyond the canonical Star Wars Universe, but others very closely tied into the Original Trilogy of films. The characteristic pink border, unique to the New Zealand renditions of these comic strips, meant the reader could readily skip past the less relevant articles of the Womans' Weekly (depending on your point of view) to the serialised Star Wars goodness.
The comics themselves, reprints syndicated by the Los Angeles Times newspaper (to over 214 other publications), were developed by 'Black Falcon Ltd', a Lucasfilm entity that was involved in the production of 'The Empire Strikes Back'. In the USA newspaper editions of the comic, brief, monochrome, daily strips (more recently republished by Dark Horse Comics) would be summarised in a full-page colour strip each Sunday. It was this Sunday edition that the Womans' Weekly used locally... ...MORE
Matt G
New Zealanders can no longer subscribe online to the "Star Wars Insider" and NZ doesn't have it's own Star Wars magazine, but you can buy the UK's bi-monthly "Star Wars" publication locally (it often re-prints articles from "Insider" too). Unfortunately it has been quite a while since I've actually seen one or received one from the local PaperPlus who are supposed to put one aside for me each time (they seem to be regularly available from Mega Mags on Queen Street, Auckland).
It's meant to be being distributed here by Gordon and Gotch. I've been told that places like Borders import copies themselves.
The Titan Publishing website... ...MORE
Buzz Bumble
The Star Wars Miniatures Game from 'Wizards of the Coast' is a combination of a typical card game systems (like previous Star Wars games, Magic the Gathering, etc) but has the added element of using collectible figures.
There are currently sixty different cards and characters, with more planned (depending on the success of the first Rebel Storm series). The characters range in height from about 22mm (Ewok) to over 40mm (Chewbacca)... ...MORE
Robbie the Robot
An introduction to Star Wars Miniature Gaming, bought to you by Grunts-World forums:
Grunts-World is an eclectic forum, set up at the moment with Star Wars as the main theme, and covering the following: Star Wars Collectable Card Game/Trading Card Game, Star Wars Miniatures, Star Wars Movies.
The first set of Star Wars Miniatures, from 'Wizards of the Coast' is the Rebel Storm Starter Pack which contains 2 'Rare' figures, Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader, and 8 'Uncommons' or 'Commons'. Recently released was the Rebel Storm Booster Pack that comes with seven random miniatures... ...MORE
Alan McIsaac
It is great to be able to give away excellent prizes to SWNZ visitors, so before announcing the latest pair of winners, let me just quickly say thanks again to SWNZ sponsor AriseSirToy.com who supplied these great collectibles.
Without further ado, first prize of a pair of vintage-style Original Trilogy Collection figures, Han Solo and Luke Skywalker, goes to... ...MORE
Matt G
I have just received and added some great pictures of the point-of-sale display boxes that held 48 chocolate bars (with one collectible Star Wars card per bar) to the Confection Concepts article in the New Zealand Collection section. ...MORE
Matt G
Just to prove that Star Wars costuming appeals to all age groups, Lance and his son Luke have sent in some pics to share with SWNZ viewers. After a quick pass through the SWNZ graphics factory, they have been used to recreate classic scenes from the Original Trilogy...click on the above thumbnails to view the photos.
Matt G
Saturday saw the Hamilton members of the 501st parading at Whitcoulls to celebrate the release of the Star Wars Original Trilogy DVD set. Click on the thumbnails to view the photos of Chris, Kirin and Lance in full battle gear. ...MORE
Related article: Vader's Fist - The Fighting 501st Legion.
Matt G
Time for another addition to the NZ Collection section: Tip-Top wrapped up its trilogy of ice-block-related collectibles in 1983, with a small set of 4 Ewok stickers. Commonly referred to as "Jedi Jelly" ice-blocks and/or "Jedi Jelly" stickers, we can see here that the naming of this frozen confection is a little more ambiguous. Both the marketing poster and the ice-block wrapper brand this as a "Return of the Jedi" item which contains "Jedi Jelly" as a feature ingredient. Like their ANH and ESB counterparts... ...MORE
Matt G
Lance Gilbert of Hamilton has sent in a couple of pictures of his recently completed Scout Trooper costume. Movie-accurate armour such as this is a prequisite for membership in the New Zealand Outpost of the International '501st Legion' Imperial costuming organisation - welcome to the club Lance.
Related article: Vader's Fist - The Fighting 501st Legion.
Matt G
'Empire of Dreams' is a feature length examination of the people behind the Star Wars Original Trilogy: a candid and honest analysis with contributions from cast and crew themelves, laid out in an arc that follows the chronology from its inception with George Lucas' original scripts of the early 70s. This 150 minute exposition ships as a component of the Original Trilogy DVD bonus material (September 22nd in New Zealand), but a 90 minute version will screen on SkyTV's History channel on Saturday September 18th at 9:30pm.
Kevin Burns is the award-winning film maker and biographer who took on the directorship of 'Empire of Dreams', and together with his dedicated team, bore the responsibility of producing the definitive Story of the Star Wars Trilogy. I was recently lucky enough to discuss this authoritative chronicle with Kevin: the following summarises that enlightening conversation... ...MORE
Matt G
Today marks Jay Laga'aia's birthday. Happy birthday Captain Typho!
Related section: The New Zealand Connexion.
Related feature: SWNZ Calendar.
Matt G
Saturday saw a successful swap meet for everything sci-fi and fantasy. The Grey Lynn library hall was full - 27 tables worth of quality merchandise. There was something for everyone from comics, action figures, RPGs, trading cards etc, even some Wombles - nice one!
Throughout the course of the day, more than 120 eager buyers passed through the hall and did some serious spending. My sweetest buy, among many, was a new in packet Return of the Jedi pencil case complete with ruler, eraser and pencil for 8 bucks - a happy deal! ...MORE
Nick P
Winners, winners, winners! Competition no.10, marking SWNZ's first year, yields the biggest pool of prize winners yet. From the latest waves of Hasbro Unleashed figures, and representing some of the best collectibles from that series, the following prizes have been won by three randomly drawn SWNZ visitors. ...MORE
Matt G
Part Three :: The missing 'Revenge' dialogue revealed.
'Home One', the largest Mon Cal warship and Rebel flagship in the Battle of Endor, played a pivotal role in the final skirmish against the Imperial fleet. It comprised a significant part of their contribution to the Rebel cause, and, because the starships control interfaces and mechanisms catered to the unique ergonomics of the Mon Calamari species (including visual displays operating in part of the electromagnetic spectrum outside the human range of perception) included the crew as well as the hardware.
This fictional context meant that Mon Cal characters and extras held quite a lot of screen time in the latter half of 'Return of the Jedi'. UK-based actor Gerald Home (note the connection between Gerald's surname and the designation of Rebel flagship) was the talent behind the Mon Calamari Officer and aide to Admiral Ackbar. (He was also responsible for Tessek, aka Squid Head, as detailed in the earlier articles, Tales of the lost Calamari, and 'Revenge of the Jedi' call sheets). In the final cut of 'Jedi', Ackbar was the only rebel alien with a significant speaking role, but footage was filmed that almost led to an alternative version of the campaign at Endor, wherein Gerald's Mon Calamari character engaged Ackbar in dialogue. The exclusion of this variant of the script has resulted in one of the most obscure Lost Scenes of the Star Wars Original Trilogy. Until now, that is... ...MORE
Matt G
The feature article on 'The Empire Strikes Back' on Vinyl has been updated with scans of the Cassette version of this aged, made in New Zealand product... ...MORE
Matt G
The feature article on Episode 1 cards from Bluebird has been updated with scans of chip and other product packaging... ...MORE
Matt G
The following is the full press release on the Star Wars Original Trilogy DVDs, direct from New Zealand distributors, Roadshow Entertainment (NZ) Ltd.
On DVD for the First Time, September 22, 2004, STAR WARS TRILOGY. Brings New Excitement, Insight and Adventure to the Most Highly Anticipated DVD in History.
More than 10 Hours of Bonus Materials Join the Classic, Newly Remastered Films in a Four-Disc Set that Includes a Brand-New, Feature-Length Documentary and Behind-the-Scenes Featurettes... ...MORE
Matt G
In a follow-up to his earlier 'Empire' wallpaper, Fred Corrotea has sent in the above 'Revenge of the Sith' desktop wallpaper to share with SWNZ regulars. Click on the thumbnail to view/download the full 1024x768 version of his excellent graphic.
Matt G
Here's a scene you don't see every day - Christchurch Star Wars costumers out and about... Cen is in his Darth Vader costume, Andrew is in my Boba Fett outfit and Karl is in my Stormtrooper outfit. I am currently trying to finish of a Tie Pilot and am about halfway to finishing a Tusken Raider head. The photos were taken at a large quarry down here and we drew alot of attention to ourselves one sunny Sunday. Locals and tourists were asking us if it was a movie or television advert.
Related article: Promoting the Swap Meet.
Related article: Vader's Fist - The Fighting 501st Legion.
Nick TePaa
I have recently been reminded of how much interesting stuff you thought you might have lost, that can be uncovered when shifting house. In 1983, MacLeans toothpaste (Beecham NZ Ltd) ran a 'Return of the Jedi' competition, in which they gave away stickers to anyone who sent in a self-addressed envelope. I thought I had long ago lost my sticker, but when I moved the last piece of furniture in one of the rooms in my old house, there it was, safely preserved in an old notebook I had used as an action figure checklist as a 12-year old. Click on the above thumbnail to view the 1983 MacLeans toothpaste sticker. ...MORE
Matt G
The latest issue, number 76, of the Star Wars Insider arrived over the weekend, for those lucky enough to still have active subscriptions. Of note was a page dedicated to New Zealander Keisha Castle-Hughes, including the first view, outside of the Hyperspace pay-to-view service, of Keisha in her Royal Naboo regalia. Click the thumbnail above.
Little new information is revealed, although it does mention that her Episode 3 (now known as 'Revenge of the Sith', of course) experience was confined to a single day's worth of shooting. Of the other five Star Wars movies, she says "I liked them. They seem to be boy's movies, with all the action and such. Nevertheless, they are lots of fun. Personally, I prefer romantic movies that make me cry".
Related article: 21 May 2004 :: UK Star Wars Magazine
Related section: The New Zealand Connexion
Matt G
Today is Rena Owen's Birthday. Happy Birthday Taun We!
Related feature: SWNZ Calendar.
Matt G
This past week marks the 1 year anniversary of the new SWNZ website. As is customary under such circumstances, I shall now take a moment to thanks those without whom this achievement would not be possible, and reminisce a little on the highlights of the past 6 months (earlier flashbacks can be viewed via these links: 6 months, 2 months).
First, I'd like to voice my appreciation to 4 groups of people... ...MORE
Matt G
That wraps up competition no.9. A nice simple entry process meant there haev been plenty of entrants. All of the names went in to a hat (well, a hat-sized receptacle), in order to pick out two people to receive a couple more figures each for their collections. Congratulations go to... ...MORE
Matt G
Following up on yesterday's installment relating to the red-bordered Episode 1 cards from Bluebird, the article on the companion gold-bordered cards has been updated/completed with images of the number 15 Error card, and the previously missing number 30 card... ...MORE
Matt G
In 1999, Bluebird chips released 2 sets of collectible cards: a gold-bordered series with glow-in-the-dark images on the back of each card, and a red-bordered series with chrome-bordered variations. The red-bordered cards are interesting in that, depending on how you want to categorise them, they could be considered as one, two, or four "sets". There are 36 red-bordered cards, but in two sizes (the first 18 are 48 x 66mm, the second 18 are a mere 30 x 40mm) with continuous numbering... ...MORE
Matt G
SWNZ has entered into an affiliate arrangement with local software and DVD outlet, www.GPStore.co.nz, that will help offset some of the costs of hosting and maintaining the SWNZ website. So, if you are looking for PC/console games, or DVDs of your favourite movie/television series, you will be supporting SWNZ when you check out their range by clicking on their logo on any of the SWNZ pages (right-hand-side menu bar).
Matt G
New photos added... My first Star Wars memory in life is also my first memory, full-stop. I was 3 and my Mum bought me Power Droid from the supermarket (!) I didn't know what the heck it was but knew it was the coolest thing I'd seen. ...MORE
Cam Beech
Today's posting is an addition to the Miscellaneous section of the New Zealand Collection archive. It's getting harder to find the equipment to play these on, but, in my humble opinion, they are still a worthy collectible. Even better if you've still got the original one floating around from when you were a kid, way back in late '77 or early '78. Featuring original soundtrack material and additional voiceover narration, a quick listen to this audio time-capsule will surely bring back childhood memories. Take a close look at the back cover of the record sleeve, or the label on the record itself, and you will see that 'The Story of Star Wars' on vinyl LP qualifies as a 'Made in New Zealand' classic collectible. ...MORE
Matt G
With his cylindrical body, domed head and detailed limbs that can transition from 3-legged to 2-legged mode, R2-D2 broke new ground in fictional robotic morphology. Indeed, all the primary characteristics of his form are protected by patent - assigned to 20th Century Fox Film Corporation, but declaring Ralph McQuarrie (conceptual artist) and John Sears (robot-builder extraordinaire) as his inventors. Even amongst other astromechs, however, Artoo is immediately recognisable - a consequence of his simple, but ever familiar, colour scheme of white, metallic silvers and iconic blue. In fact, Artoo-blue is a colour rarely seen elsewhere. Metallic and pearlescent, it is more of an effect than it is a colour, appearing quite different in saturation and intensity depending on angle and incident light. This makes it hard to reproduce on a life-size replica. The original Artoo-blue was achieved by applying coats of "candy-apple" blue over a proprietary mix of darker colours. I've taken a slightly simpler approach by using a colour-matched pearlescent lacquer over a fairly close blue base coat. ...MORE
Matt G
Fred Corrotea has sent in the above Imperial desktop wallpaper to share with SWNZ regulars. Click on the thumbnail to view/download the full 1024x768 version of his excellent graphic.
Matt G
Following up on the 'Tales of the lost Calamari' article, which introduced actor Gerald Home as the man behind Squid Head and a Mon Calamari Officer in 'Return of the Jedi'... Part Two :: 'Revenge of the Jedi' call sheets.
A call sheet is a day's plan for a particular film unit on a particular set. Typically, these are distributed at the end of the day and refer to the next day's timetable. They document and tie together all the scenes to be covered, the actors, stand-ins, and extras required. Listed will be equipment, prop, lighting and ancillary requirements (transport, catering). Often, you will also find schedules for related activity: still photography, documentary and interview filming, rehearsals and costume fittings. To those immediately involved, a call sheet represents the tasks of another day's work. To the fans and audience, such an artifact can provide detailed insight into the behind-the-scenes machinations of the production in question.
Actor Gerald Home, famous amongst both Quarren and Mon Calamari communities (see previous article, Tales of the lost Calamari), shares with us a series of call sheets from some of the 'Return of the Jedi' scenes in which he was involved, starting with the action aboard the Rebel Headquarters Frigate, coincidentally also designated 'Home One'......MORE
Matt G
Competition no.8 has closed, and we have a winner. The correct answers to the question posed were (in any order): 1) TIE Bomber, 2) TIE Interceptor, and 3) Darth Vader's TIE Fighter (or TIE Advanced X1/X1 prototype - variations on this naming were accepted).
Without further ado, however, the lucky, randomly-selected winner is... ...MORE
Matt G
The movie that first bought Rena Owen and Temuera Morrison together, 'Once Were Warriors', screens on TV3 tonight (8:30pm). This is followed up by the sequel, 'What Become of the Broken Hearted?', tomorrow night (also at 8:30pm).
Subscribers to the Offical Star Wars website's Hyperspace service, who have downloaded the most recent 'Making of Episode 3' video, will have seen Rena speaking about her EP3 costume.
Related section: New Zealand Connexion.
Matt G
Today is Daniel Logan's Birthday. Happy Birthday Boba Fett!
Related feature: SWNZ Calendar.
Matt G
New photographs added: My name is Centuri, and as a member of SWNZ from the early days its great to see it up and running again.
I've been a fan of Star Wars since I was a youngster... ...MORE
Centuri
New photos taken during the recent (1st may) Christchurch swap meet, from Cen Chan, have been added to those sent in earlier by Nick TePaa. ...MORE
Matt G
Dedicated fan, or crazy person. It's a fine line, they say. You've probably crossed the line when the number of life-size robots and assorted villains outnumber the human inhabitants of your house. Ah well, I guess I am progressing from "crazy" to "very crazy" as I start my latest project: a life-size, aluminium R2-D2. ...MORE
Matt G
This feature article is the latest addition to the NZ Collection section. In 1999, Bluebird chips released 2 sets of collectible cards: a gold-bordered series with glow-in-the-dark images on the back of each card, and a red-bordered series with chrome-bordered variations. Taking a look at the gold-bordered cards first... ...MORE
Matt G
Today marks the anniversary of the public release of 'Star Wars, A New Hope' (although the ANH extension was actually added later), way back in 1977. Although New Zealand got to view it some months after the US (and rest of the world), it is a day that will be long remembered.
Related feature: SWNZ Calendar.
Matt G
Part 1 in a series of articles exclusive to SWNZ ::
Far into the Galactic periphery, off the Rimma Trade Route and beyond the Tion Cluster, lies the watery world of Mon Calamari. This Outer Rim planet is home to two of the more distinctive aliens to have been introduced to our earthly theatres in 'Return of the Jedi': the Quarren and the Mon Calamari.
Tessek the Quarren (aka "Squid Head") mingled with Jabba's minions in the early scenes of ROTJ. The Expanded Universe literature tells us how his plot to overthrow Jabba's criminal empire was motivated by a drive to use his business acumen for more legitimate capitalist purposes. His intricate scheming is interrupted when some captured Rebels are sentenced to Death by Sarlacc. Although we might presume that Tessek perished at the time of Jabba's fiery demise, we learn that his final fate actually involves the bizarre transfer of his central nervous system to the nutrient tanks and spider-droids of the B'omarr Monks.
In the latter scenes of ROTJ, a number of Mon Cal characters crewed the great spaceships their people contributed to the rebel cause. Ackbar in particular is renowned for his role in leading the offensive manoeuvres against the second Death Star. The Admiral was well supported by a coterie of Calamari characters, including an executive officer and dedicated aide who provided crucial ministration during the hectic battle.
Despite their common homeworld, the Quarren and the Mon Cal never cross paths in 'Jedi'...at least not on screen. Gerald Home is the actor beneath the squid-like masks of both Tessek and the Mon Calamari Officer/Aide. ...MORE
Matt G
SWNZ has entered into an affiliate arrangement with local software and DVD outlet, www.GPStore.co.nz, that will help offset some of the costs of hosting and maintaining the SWNZ website. So, if you are looking for PC/console games, or DVDs of your favourite movie/television series, you will be supporting SWNZ when you check out their range by clicking on their logo on any of the SWNZ pages (right-hand-side menu bar).
Matt G
Many of you will have heard of the Kellogs Cornflakes Return of the Jedi Stickers. Many will remember eagerly opening the single cellophane packet that came in 300g or 500g packages of cornflakes back in 1984 (around the time that Jedi was in the theatres), and sticking the now highly collectible sticker somewhere or on something that no longer exists... ...MORE
Matt G
Today marks the 60th birthday of George Walton Lucas Jr., the man ultimately behind all things Star Wars. Happy Birthday Mr Lucas!
Related feature: SWNZ Calendar.
Robbie the Robot
I first discovered the world of Star Wars when I saw Attack of the Clones and from then on, I�ve been hooked. I loved the idea of the Jedi. Watching Obi-Wan and Anakin dealing to a bounty hunter, striding down the Temple halls, charging into battle lightsabers twirling, I wondered what it would be like to be one of them.
It wasn�t until later when I explored the world of Star Wars online, that I discovered all the different areas of Star War fandom, including costuming. The 501st sounded cool, but I haven�t the money, or the stature to be a stormtrooper. Then I found the Jedi Assembly, the costuming group just for Jedi and I knew this was something for me. ...MORE
Anaria
Star Wars seems to find its way into many aspects of our lives. Starting in 1999, Telecom New Zealand went beyond the obvious marketing opportunities, and released a set of collectibles that were also functional, in the form of 'The Phantom Menace' prepaid phone cards. ...MORE
Matt G
The Confection Concepts Postacards (ANH) article in the New Zealand Collection section has been updated with new scans of the chocolate bar wrappers associated with these collectible cards. Included is an image of the wrapper front, and one of the unfolded wrapper, showing the rear of the packaging (where the ill-fated 'Return of the Jedi' series, that never made it to production, is described). ...MORE
Matt G
These two animation-style figures of Yoda and a Clonetrooper are iconic of the Clone Wars era and associated micro-series. The bold and bright packaging make them great collectibles, and the implication from the number of entrants in the latest SWNZ competition is that I'm not the only one who thinks so.
The competition closed yesterday. The lucky, randomly-selected winner is... ...MORE
Matt G
'Star Wars Myth & Magic' have posted an interview with Rena Owen (Taun We from 'Attack of the Clones', and a new Senator in 'Star Wars: Episode 3') recently. In their article they put 20 questions to her, and she consequently talks about acting, her previous roles, and her experience in the Star Wars films.
Go to 'Star Wars Myth & Magic' for the full article.
Related article: Rena Owen as Taun We.
Anaria
The Mainland 'Taste the Magic' Episode II Cards article in the NZ Collection section has been wrapped up with images from their in-store marketing campaign (thanks to Stephen Williams for his help in my acquisition of these items). ...MORE
Matt G
In the past, SWNZ has run articles spotlighting fan's collections as part of a competition. An excuse is, of course, not needed to show off and describe your collection to the rest of the SWNZ community. If you would like to contribute to SWNZ by having your collection spotlighted (or would like to add to a pre-existing article on your collection), email me with photos of your displays and favourite items, and write a few words describing your passion for the hobby. -- Matt G
My name is Kristy Ross, and I'm a relative newbie in Star Wars fandom. I was born in 1983, a few months before Return of the Jedi came out, so I didn't really know about Star Wars in my childhood.
It wasn't until I saw Attack of the Clones on it's first day of release, that I found out what I was missing. ...MORE
Related article: What's your favourite collectible?
Anaria
The New Zealand Collection section has been updated with new, large scans of the stickers from the (unlicensed) Europa Petrol Advertising Campaign of 1979, including an image of both of the stickers on their single backing sheet... ...MORE
Matt G
The Official Star Wars Fact Files from De Agostini Publishing recently broke into triple figures. MouseDroid.com have just published a brief article with preview images of issues 106-109. Locally, those who have subscribed direct from the United Kingdom should have received issues 102 and 103. The worthy thing about that latter publication is a section on Captain Typho, with a great series of photos of New Zealander Jay Laga'aia portraying Senator Amidala's protector. ...MORE
Matt G
In the past, SWNZ has run articles spotlighting fan's collections as part of a competition. An excuse is, of course, not needed to show off and describe your collection to the rest of the SWNZ community. If you would like to contribute to SWNZ by having your collection spotlighted (or would like to add to a pre-existing article on your collection), email me with photos of your displays and favourite items, and write a few words describing your passion for the hobby. -- Matt G
My name is Daniel and I'm a big fan of all things Star Wars. After watching Attack Of The Clones, I got the bug and started collecting figures. I like collecting Sith - 12-inch, Unleashed etc and Clone Wars figures. ...MORE
Related article: What's your favourite collectible?
Daniel Ross
TheForce.net has pointed out that the Official Star Wars website has confirmed the name of Rena Owen's Episode 3 character: Senator Nee Alavar. This, and other reference to the New Zealand actors and their characters, can be found on the Official Site's Episode III Cast & Crew page.
Related article: Rena Owen as Taun We.
Matt G
Keisha Castle-Hughes celebrates her birthday today. Happy birthday to the the EP3 Queen of Naboo!
Related article: Keisha Castle-Hughes biography.
Related feature: SWNZ Calendar.
Matt G
The goal of the "What's your favourite collectible?" contest was get people to share pictures and stories pertaining to more unique or meaningful items in their collection. I've really enjoyed reading the contributions from the SWNZ community, and the feedback I have received confirms that many others have as well; so, as I have said before, thanks goes out to the contestants who have really entered into the spirit of the competition. The competition closed at midnight, meaning an announcement is due today: we have a pair of randomly-selected winners... ...MORE
Related article: What's your favourite collectible?
Matt G
One of my favourite pieces is the Republic Gunship. I brought it at an SWNZ swap meet, along with some other pieces I had been after for ages, an AT-AT and A-Wing!
Related article: Competition no.6.
Related article: What's your favourite collectible?
Brenden Staveley
Images of the wrapper from the Confections Concepts Empire Strikes Back chocolate bars have been added... ...MORE (please note, graphic-heavy page follows).
Matt G
Some past Star Wars competitions and marketing are memorable because of their scale and/or the collectibility of associated giveaways. Some are memorable because they stem from a time long ago when such things were perhaps less common, and perhaps bore greater significance in our younger minds. Other competitions have been less grand, less pervasive, but still worthy of entries in the New Zealand Collection chronicles, as they nevertheless, undeniably celebrate the local impact of Star Wars, or mark events in New Zealand's Star Wars history....MORE
Related article: NZ Miscellanea.
Matt G
My favourite collectible is my Master Replicas Anakin Skywalker FX lightsaber. It's also the most expensive piece in my Star Wars collection, but that's not why it's my favourite. I love the feel of holding a lightsaber, twirling it around, hearing the hum. I feel like a real Jedi. It made me realise how much of a Star Wars fan I had become; that I would spend that much on one 'toy', and knowing how my parents would react to the credit card bill. But it was worth it.
Related article: Competition no.6.
Related article: Collector Spotlight - Anaria.
Anaria
Well, this has to be about the slackest Star Wars collectible I have (besides an FX7 that my son shot with an air rifle and anything involving Jar Jar). Dead common, not very interesting, very worn, missing his saber, and his head is glued on with araldite. However, this Vintage Bespin Luke starred in a short movie I made in 2000 (although with Wynton Rufer's face blue-tacked on), called "Soccer Wars", which was enough to win me a trip to see the final of the FIFA Euro 2000 soccer tournament in Rotterdam, Holland, on July 2nd 2000.
Luke sits on a shelf above my desk, next to a bunch of other weird things, and every time I look at him I remember what winning that trip meant. It was my first and only trip to Europe (did Holland and London), and was the last time I took a decent holiday too. Sure, I've got a bunch of other things I really like, but money can't buy what this Luke did (with a little help from me, granted). If I had to pick only one, then this is it.
Related article: Competition no.6.
Related article: Collector Spotlight - Robbie the Robot.
Robbie the Robot
The latest article to be added to the NZ Collection section follows up on the 'A New Hope' special edition collectible cards produced by Confection Concepts International Limited, with images and details of the 'Empire Strikes Back' series.
Although the 'A New Hope' companion set contained 50 cards, this set of 'The Empire Strikes Back' "postacards", from Confection Concepts International Ltd., numbers only 45... ...MORE
Matt G
Pick my favourite poster? That's a hard one! But if you're going to make me pick just one I think right now I'm going to have to say the 'Spanish Style D'. I've always loved that poster since the first time I saw it (the US version). I never saw it at a theatre. The first time I saw it was in the 1980 Star Wars calender. I think that's what started me on trying to find some of these cool posters. Then one day about four or five years ago I was talking to a poster dealer (at a comic con, in the USA), and I said something about the Type D that it was my favorite poster...he then asked me if I've ever seen the Spanish Version. I said that I hadn't...well he pulled out a black and white picture of it and showed it to me,... and that was it...I might have paid a bit too much for it...oh well, I still think that its a killer version...
Anyway, it's 27 x 39 inches, compared to the US version being 27 x 41 inches and reprints of the US version being 27 x 40 inches.
Related article: Competition no.6.
Jeff L
MovieHole.net posted an interview with Rena Owen (Taun We from 'Attack of the Clones', and a new Senator in 'Star Wars: Episode 3') earlier today. In the article, Rena talks about Episode 3 ("All I'm allowed to say is that I come back as a human being, a new Senator, and you will see my face in Episode 3. But my favourite will always be Taun We, a tough character to top! An honour to be a part of the grand finale!"), George Lucas, her work on the latest installment in the series of 'The Crow' big-screen films, and hints at recent involvement in "a New Zealand feature film".
Go to MovieHole.net for the full article.
Related article: Rena Owen as Taun We.
Matt G
I think my life size Yoda would be my favourite collectible because why wouldn't you want the baddest (and wisest!) green dude in the Galaxy keeping watch over you and your family. And I haven't seen another one like it in NZ with a mint base.
Related article: Competition no.6.
Callum Farmer
My favourite collectible is my Kyle Katarn EU figure. After playing the Jedi Outcast PC game, Kyle became my favourite expanded universe character. Even though there is no figure depicting him from Jedi Outcast, I wanted to get the only Katarn figure made. After hunting for a quite a while, I finally found him last year, and has pride of place on my shelf in a scene from Jedi Outcast - just added Thrawn in there too. Kyle's fighting a custom 'Reborn' figure, and I wish they'd make more figures from the Jedi Knight game series.
Related article: Competition no.6.
Daniel Ross
My favorite collectible is my big silver space ship ('EP1 Royal Naboo Star Ship') that my dad got me for Christmas. It's really special for lots of reasons, because my dad said it's as old as me and its the biggest ship ever made. I first loved it when I saw one at a collectors thing ('Christchurch Swap meet') I have been asking my dad to get me one for 2 years and he kept saying they were hard to get. It's extra special because my daddy got it from America and I was amazed.
Gali C (age 5 years)
I first saw this ship/playset at retail in about 1998 and wanted to buy it for Gali when he was in his mothers womb, but at the time there more important things to worry about with a baby coming. I was a collector when I was a kid, but most of my things were stolen in a burglary when I was 5, and regrettably the remainder were later sold in a garage sale. So when I saw a couple on ebay last year I had to get one for him.
Related article: Competition no.6.
Gali's Dad
My most prized possession would have to be my 'Taste the Magic' cheese stand. I was given it from one of my mum's friends from a local supermarket. Even though it is still a fairly recent item, it has been really handy to display some of my collection on.
Related article: Competition no.6.
Related article: Collector Spotlight - Michael Moulden.
Related article: Mainland Cheese Episode 2 promotion.
Michael Moulden
Renown and respected New Zealand actor Temuera Morrison gets a mention in the Hyperspace section of the Official Star Wars website. You need to be a subscriber of the Hyperspace service (a one-year subscription is US$19.95, or use the monthly option for US$3.95 per month) to read the full article, but to tempt you down that path, here is a taste of the reference to Tem in Episode 3 (warning...watch out for spoilers): "...Lucas approved a digital head of Temuera Morrison, shown side-by-side with a still of the Maori actor as Commander Cody... As it stands right now, Episode III has several named clone commanders, all played by Temuera. ...in hair and makeup explorations last summer, Morrison had a number of looks developed. Some had subtle scars while others had more pronounced differences, like a milky damaged eye or white streaked hair... As described in previous Post Notes, ILM's helmetless clone model can dial in different percentages between Temuera Morrison's features and Bodie Taylor's face".
Matt G
Star Wars memorabilia offered with another staple food item: the Quality Bakers bread cards. This set of collectible cards came out in 1997, in conjunction with a promotion and competition that coincided with the availability of the Original Trilogy on VHS. Indeed, Star Wars videos were amongst the prizes, as were lesser, but instant, awards of watches and yo-yos. The competition was topped with a $10,000 cash draw.... ...MORE
Matt G
This was made by me when I was about 8-9 years old. Not really collectible but it has been with me the longest. It is made of balsa wood, cut and glued together...it is supposed to be THE MILLENIUM FALCON if you couldn't guess!
My other 'awesome' collectible is my sit in Atari Star Wars arcade game.
Related article: Competition no.6.
Related article: Collector Spotlight - Nick Tepaa.
Nick Tepaa
The Mainland 'Taste the Magic' Episode II Cards article in the NZ Collection section has been updated with scans of some of the tokens used in the associated competition. Some of these came mint, direct from the Mainland Cheese factory, and had never been stuck onto products (thanks to Stephen Williams). ...MORE
Matt G
It might not look much from the outside, but... this is a cinema trailer for Episode 2 that I managed to get from my local cinema (it's not hot!) The other small green capsule contains a clipping of the Episode 1 movie which I got from the same place (dont worry... only a bit from the excess film).
Related article: Competition no.6.
Related article: Collector Spotlight - Pera Tuapawa.
Pera Tuapawa
I have been hunting this poster down for years, and only recently got hold of one, in pretty good condition. It was put out in 1977 by the U.S. Department of Health, Education and Welfare, in conjunction with the Center for Disease Control, as part of an immunisation campaign. It is interesting to see a government department using Star Wars imagery and concepts as part of a public health service.
Related article: Competition no.6.
Related article: Collector Spotlight - Matt G.
Matt G
My favourite piece from my collection is this Darth Vader bust/voice changer. It runs on 4 AAA batteries and works quite well! It has one mode that makes your voice sound like Vader's and 3 other buttons that, when pressed, recite the lines: "What is thy bidding master", "As you wish" and classic Vader breathing.
I picked it up at a school garage sale for 20 cents and, for the price, it is GREAT!
Related article: Competition no.6.
Sean G
This ROTJ Tour Suit photo was taken when our local cinema manager visited the Tokoroa Police Station in 1984! To my surprise Photo Section returned both print and negative! I�ve treasured them for years and was lucky enough to have David Prowse sign it in 2003.
Related article: Competition no.6.
Phil G
I really like some of the old Star Wars products that have that 70's and 80's look, like these cups. I love the colours they have used. Other favourites include the Empire Strikes Back tooth brush, pillow cases & the cardboard Death Star.
Related article: Competition no.6.
Pat M
"R2D2 Race in Space Galaxy Game: starring good guy space hero R2D2". This game-on-a-poster, which loosely interprets the Star Wars storyline and its characters, was available from the corner dairy in 1977/78 with the R2-D2 Space Ice iceblocks from Tip Top Ice-Cream (and the associated, highly sought after, Space Ice sticker set).
Badly drawn stormtroopers and a grapefruit-like Death Star didn't stop this from being an exciting bonus for the "inner galaxy kids" of the late 70s. ...MORE
Matt G
Just over a year ago, a bunch of folks hatched a plan to create a website that would serve as an art resource for Star Wars Role Playing Gamers, essentially an online gallery of fan-produced SW art depicting the kind of stuff you won�t find anywhere else. This would be somewhere you can find pictures of obscure denizens of the SW Universe, from Twi�lek Sith Lords to Jawa Jedi, from Pa�lowick soldiers to shaved Ewoks. ...MORE
Daniel Falconer
Keisha Castle-Hughes, the EP3 Queen of Naboo, makes the New Zealand Herald Headlines again. This time, there are cheeky claims that the Oscar nominee is an Australian. Keisha's mother confirms that she was born "on March 24, 1990, in Donnybrook, 210km south of Perth", but left Australia when she was 4 ("Not many people know about the Australian link ... I don't know how much she remembers of Australia", says her father), and has lived in New Zealand since.
Read the full story in the New Zealand Herald.
Matt G
Keisha Castle-Hughes has become the youngest ever Oscar nominee for best actress, for her role as Pai Apirana in 'Whale Rider'. Read the full story in the New Zealand Herald.
Matt G
Topps trading cards are surely amongst the most collected Star Wars items of all time. Or perhaps to be more correct, particularly when referring to cards released in the 1977-1983 timeframe, I should say Topps, and its international sub-license holders. And that is where the New Zealand uniqueness comes in. ...MORE
Matt G
Even if you get your hands on one of these, you might not be brave enough to open him up. These are exclusive pics of the Silver Mr Fett Junior taken with a macro-lens... ...MORE
Robbie the Robot
The Official Star Wars website has confirmed that New Zealander Keisha Castle-Hughes plays the Queen of Naboo in Episode 3. You will need to be a Hyperspace subscriber to view the image of her in Naboo royal garb here.
Matt G
PepsiCo Inc. made extensive use of its license to the Star Wars Episode 1 imagery, through its Pepsi and many related brands. In addition to a large variety of promotional and packaging material, core components of its international Episode 1 campaign were series of elaborately detailed collectible soft-drink cans. A number of unique series were available in different countries, and although the set of six different cans that were exclusive to the New Zealand market comprised one of the smaller sets, these are definitely worthy and sought after items... ...MORE
Matt G
This New Zealand Star Wars trivia competition was a little more involved than previous SWNZ contests and giveaways, but some great prizes were at stake (Lando, Leia, Muftak and Kabe!), and those who took the time to fill out the questionnaire were definitely deserving of going into the draw.
From those that got all the questions correct, I have randomly selected two winners. Congratulations go to... ...MORE
Matt G
Today marks six months of the new SWNZ (see article here)...which is a good excuse to take pause and indulge in a 'flashback' news article.
The goal for SWNZ is not just for it to be means of conveying all the latest news on Star Wars and Star Wars hobbies in New Zealand, but for it to grow into a repository for all such information: an encyclopaedia of Star Wars in New Zealand. As such, all key articles will be archived... ...MORE
Matt G
Keisha Castle-Hughes took away the award for best young actress at the Broadcast Film Association awards in Los Angeles yesterday.
Read the full story in the NZ Herald.
Matt G
Temuera Morrison's condition has been updated in Yesterday's NZ Herald: "Fans don't need to worry, he'll be just fine. It's not going to threaten his career or anything like that.
His injury is not expected to affect a new show he is to host this year on the Prime television channel".
Matt G
In the yesteryears, Star Wars giveaways and competitions were slightly less common than current times, so when they turned up with everyday groceries, it was considered a real bonus.
In 1984, Kellogs Cornflakes jumped on the Star Wars marketing opportunity with an excellent series of small square 'Return of the Jedi' character stickers (article and pictures coming soon). Less information has been published, however, about the competition associated with the stickers, and the temporary changes Kellogs made to the Cornflakes packaging to push the Star Wars association. ...MORE
Related feature: NZ Miscellanea.
Matt G
1983. Over twenty years ago now. The much anticipated third Star Wars movie, 'The Return of the Jedi' was approaching New Zealand cinemas, and Beecham NZ Ltd, through its Macleans toothpaste brand, was running a competition tempting shoppers to "Buy Macleans and be among the first to discover the fate of Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, Darth Vader, R2-D2 and the other STAR WARS heroes in the blockbuster movie of all time - RETURN OF THE JEDI - showing soon in Amalgamated Theatres". ...MORE
Related feature: NZ Miscellanea.
Matt G
Temuera Morrison makes the news again today. Today's NZ Herald reports how he "is recovering from a broken leg after crashing his Harley-Davidson motorcycle in Manawatu.
Morrison, is recuperating at his home near Lake Rotoiti in Rotorua. He spent five days in Palmerston North Hospital, his leg broken in two places, after his motorcycle fell on him while he was riding alone on the outskirts of Palmerston North on Monday last week".
Matt G
The XBox version of the Star Wars game 'Knights of the Old Republic' is the New Zealand Herald's top pick in their 'top five console games of the year' list.
Read the article on the NZ Herald site.
Matt G
Keisha Castle-Hughes' rise to fame has been short. This addition to the NZ Connexion section chronicles her brief history.
Born in 1990, Keisha Castle-Hughes took the Hyperspace route to stardom. She leapt straight to the big screen at the age of twelve, as Pai Apirana in the internationally acclaimed New Zealand film, 'Whale Rider' (www.WhaleRiderTheMovie.com). That movie hit was still in theatres when her second feature film credit was announced: Keisha joins the Episode 3 cast list as a "Regal Leader". ...MORE
Matt G
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