Crew involved in the filming in Oamaru's historic precinct yesterday would not disclose what company the advertisement was for, but early in the morning an unregistered burgundy Holden Malibu sitting at the end of the street, and later seen following the camera truck, was a giveaway.
Film company 8 Commercials Ltd has used the Oamaru historic area before to film commercials and is well aware of its attractions. Today, filming was being done in rural North Otago at an undisclosed location.
The Malibu is a recently released Holden sedan which crosses the medium and large-size segment. The commercial will be seen only in Australia.
Freelance locations manager Harry Whitehurst said that the company had come to Oamaru because of its magnificent Victorian buildings.
''It's cheaper to go to New Zealand than Europe for that sort of location,'' he said.
North Otago people were also ''so film-friendly'', with features, other films and commercials being shot there.
''Over the years, we have filmed here on a number of occasions, so we know the area and what is available.''
He estimated about 100 local people were involved, along with local vehicles including, amazingly, a Ford Falcon and Ford Cortina.
One local man hired out his Italian scooter, which the film company covered with beige-coloured tape over its original silver to add more background colour. He said he was getting $150 for the day's rental.
The Scottish Hall in Tyne St and some other business premises had also been hired to provide support for crew and extras.
Harbour St was closed off but people were still allowed in to the Harbour St bakery, or to take photographs from Wansbeck and Tyne Sts, which remained open.
