'Wellywood' backdown not caused by radical protestors

Loud protest was not as effective as quiet disapproval when it came to Wellington Airport's change of heart over the Wellywood sign. Photo / supplied

Wellington Airport says it was the opinion of moderate locals, not radical protestors, that changed its mind about Wellywood.

The company has backed down and is setting up an independent panel to come up with alternative ideas for the sign.

There will be community input and a vote - one the airport won't be part of.

CEO Steve Fitzgerald says it wasn't the protests or extreme social media groups that concerned them.

"That was a small number of motivated people who were yelling very loudly," he told Newstalk ZB. "What was of more relevance to us was the substantial number of ordinary moderate Wellingtonians who thought we should be coming up with something more creative."

Steve Fitzgerald says they're finalising the panel, but it will be made up of respected and influential locals.

"People who represent various interests, we'll try and get a balanced group of people. We've approached a number of people and had positive feedback but we're unable to confirm who will be on the panel until we've gone through a discussion with them."

Steve Fitzgerald says they're still anticipating a sign being built, so people shouldn't be alarmed if they see construction workers on the hill site.

- Newstalk ZB