Makers of the two movies of The Hobbit, expected to begin filming in New Zealand early next year, are looking for extras.

The One Ring Net website reported applications for work on the movies as an extra have been announced by MGM Studios in New Zealand.

And Jack Machiela, a tour guide for former Lord Of the Rings film locations, said on his Noldor blog principal photography was scheduled to begin as early as March or April.

Three Foot Seven Ltd, the company making The Hobbit, had told him it would only consider applications sent by conventional mail, and from people who can legally work in  New Zealand.

Casting directors would want clear photographs of people before sending out formal application forms with questions about skills and clothing  measurements.

"Do not bother to tell them what you think you'd be most suitable at (hobbit, elf, human, orc)," said Mr Machiela, who worked for five days on King Kong as an extra.

"Most people will want to be a hobbit or an elf anyway, but will end up being an orc or a dead dwarf, and in the background".

"After that, just wait," Mr Machiela advised on the Noldor blog: "If you don't hear from them, obviously you're just too ugly. Or, not ugly enough. I'm not quite sure how that works."

The address for applications is: Hobbit Extras Application, 3 Foot 7 Ltd, PO Box 15104, Miramar, Wellington 6243.