By Amandeep Kaur
Hamilton (New Zealand), Dec 20 (IANS) Bollywood filmmaker Karan Johar will shoot his next production venture “I Hate Luv Stories” in Queenstown in January, and a New Zealand official has welcomed it, saying it will help promote tourism.

“The movie will attract a huge audience and the media surrounding the filming and the release will also present great opportunities for promoting New Zealand as a visitor destination,” said Tourism New Zealand’s acting chief executive Tim Hunter.

Ace designer Manish Malhotra’s nephew Punit is directing “I Hate Luv Stories”, which is being made under Karan’s banner Dharma Productions. Imran Khan and Sonam Kapoor play the lead roles in the film that is due for release in May next year.

During the film’s shooting, Tourism New Zealand plans to host Indian media who will follow the lead actors as they participate in tourist activities in the Queenstown area.

The visitors will have plenty to choose from - Queenstown is considered the adventure capital of New Zealand and offers a wide range of experiences from bungy jumping to jet boating, skiing and snow-boarding besides spectacular scenery, gourmet food and local wines.

Part of the Hollywood blockbuster “Lord of the Rings” trilogy was filmed in Queenstown.