Nintendo moves NZ-filmed ‘Legend of Zelda’ live-action movie release

It’s not unusual for excited fans to get a damper of delays for big releases (GTA6, anyone?).

But legendary game designer Shigeru Miyamoto announced on Nintendo’s socials that the big-screen Zelda adaptation is shifting its worldwide theatrical release date a week earlier to April 30, 2027.

"In order to deliver it to everyone even one day sooner, the team is united in advancing production," Miyamoto shared in his statement.

"It's less than a year until release, but please wait just a little longer."

While an extra seven days might not sound like much, it cements a huge move for a project that has remained tight-lipped.

It will also put the film alongside some big expected releases, including 'Sonic the Hedgehog 4', 'Godzilla x Kong: Supernova', and 'Star Wars: Starfighter.'

‘Zelda’ has officially wrapped in New Zealand, where most filming took place last year in the wider Queenstown area.

Locals noted one location included Paradise in Glenorchy, which was also used in shoots for ‘The Lord of the Rings’ trilogy.

Keen fans who caught glimpses of these South Island sets believe they spotted ‘Succession’ actress Dichen Lachman in costume, sparking heavy speculation that she will be playing Zelda's iconic protector and aide, Impa.

What is for sure is that Benjamin Evan Ainsworth and Bo Bragason are stepping into the legendary boots of Link and Zelda, and that Director Wes Ball (’Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’) is at the helm, promising a serious and immersive experience that honours the franchise.

With The Legend of Zelda franchise celebrating its monumental 40th anniversary later this year, fans are anticipating more updates and more glimpses of New Zealand transformed into the vast land of Hyrule very soon.