The main street of Tapanui was chosen as a filming location for Pete’s Dragon because its stores had ‘‘some age to them’’, but residents say there is now a new ‘‘buzz’’ on the main thoroughfare. Photos: Samuel White/Disney. : Film hopes live on

Top Nosh co-owner Farryn Crawford shows visitors who come in to ask about the film a book of photos of the shooting of scenes and the cafe’s transformation into an 1980s American diner. : Film hopes live on

Vaughn and Shelley Wesselson opened a butchery on Tapanui’s main drag last year. : Film hopes live on

This unused store in Tapanui has a display of photos of when Pete’s Dragon was being filmed in the town. : Film hopes live on

Joining most of Tapanui for an advanced screening of Pete’s Dragon in the town last August were (from left) director David Lowery (left), co-writer Toby Halbrooks and producers Adam Borba and Barrie M. Osbourne. : Film hopes live on

Tapanui West Otago Promotions chairman Horace McAuley says he wants to do more to promote Tapanui’s role in the movie. : Film hopes live on