An acclaimed filmmaker’s grumble could be the catalyst that brings a centuries-extinct giant bird back from the dead.

A partnership between the Ngāi Tahu Research Centre, Colossal Biosciences, and director Sir Peter Jackson, famous for The Lord of the Rings, seeks to resurrect the South Island giant moa in New Zealand, a bird hunted to extinction centuries ago.

According to Colossal CEO and co-founder Ben Lamm, the project began with a visit from the Oscar-winning director to the Texas-based company.

Lamm commented that the moa project met all the criteria for Colossal, as it involves a species that played a critical ecological role, faced extinction due to hunting, and has the potential to inspire future scientists.

”The giant moa is probably one of the most dinosaur-proximate species humans have ever lived next to,” he said.

“And what kid out there doesn’t have dinosaurs on the brain?”

Jackson said he was “delighted” to be involved in the partnership.

He noted, “There’s still significant scientific work ahead, but we can begin to envision a future where birds like the moa or the huia are brought back from extinction.”

“Exciting times lay ahead! Even the journey will bring incredible insights about the history of this land and enrich discussions as to the potential nature of our future here.”