James Cameron Plans to Become New Zealand Citizen to Avoid Possible Trump Re-Election
James Cameron, the legendary filmmaker behind Titanic, Avatar, and The Terminator, has never been shy about his opinions, especially when it comes to politics and the environment. In a recent interview, Cameron made headlines once again when he revealed that he is set to become a New Zealand citizen—a move he described as “imminent.” Notably, the timing of his citizenship coincides with his desire to distance himself from the possibility of a second term for Donald Trump, which he called “terrible.”
A Longstanding Love for New Zealand
Cameron’s admiration for New Zealand is not new. The filmmaker has had a deep connection to the country for decades, ever since he chose it as a major filming location for Avatar (2009). With its breathtaking landscapes, relatively low population density, and progressive environmental policies, New Zealand has long been an appealing refuge for the director.
In 2012, Cameron took his relationship with the country a step further by purchasing a 1,000-hectare estate in Wairarapa, a rural region on New Zealand’s North Island. He moved there with his family and has since immersed himself in the local culture, often praising the country’s commitment to sustainability and its handling of global crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.
In a previous interview, Cameron has expressed admiration for New Zealand’s government and overall quality of life. “This is a great place to raise children, it has a government that listens to science and it is a country that prioritizes environmental responsibility,” he declared.
James Cameron directing ‘Avatar: The Way of Water’ in 2022
The Political Context: Cameron vs. Trump
James Cameron has been critical of Donald Trump for years. From his climate change policies to his leadership style, Cameron has consistently criticized the former president’s approach to governance. In 2019, he publicly called Trump’s decision to withdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement “reckless” and “an act of environmental vandalism.”
Now, as Trump seeks a second term in 2024, Cameron appears to be making moves to solidify his future outside the United States. The director didn’t hold back when describing his reasons for finalizing his New Zealand citizenship: “The thought of going through another Trump presidency is terrifying.”
Cameron has previously criticized the former president’s handling of climate, immigration, and international relations. In particular, he has accused Trump of allowing policies that he believes will exacerbate climate change, a topic Cameron has been passionate about for decades. “He has taken us back at a time when we urgently need to move forward,” Cameron once remarked.
By securing New Zealand citizenship, Cameron ensured that he and his family had an alternative in case the political situation in the United States became unstable in his view.
Cameron’s decision to seek New Zealand citizenship is part of a broader trend among celebrities, tech moguls and billionaires who have sought refuge outside the United States in recent years. Whether due to political unrest, climate concerns or economic uncertainty, many high-profile figures have begun to look for alternatives to their permanent US residency.
Elon Musk, for example, moved Tesla’s headquarters from California to Texas, citing concerns about state policies and taxes. Other stars, such as George Clooney and Madonna, have also spent time abroad in countries they consider more politically stable or aligned with their values.
New Zealand is a particularly appealing destination due to its progressive policies, strong COVID-19 response and natural beauty. During the pandemic, the country has seen a surge in applications for permanent residency from wealthy Americans, many of whom cite political discontent in the United States as a major factor in their decision.
Cameron’s move to New Zealand citizenship raises questions about the future of his filmmaking career. While Hollywood remains the epicenter of the global entertainment industry, the rise of digital production technology and international filming locations has made it easier than ever for directors to work from anywhere in the world.
With much of Avatar: The Way of Water shot in New Zealand, Cameron clearly has no problem working on major projects from his new base. He has also expressed interest in using his platform to promote environmental causes through film, which aligns with New Zealand’s commitment to sustainability.
Cameron’s move could also signal a shift for other filmmakers looking to operate outside of Hollywood’s traditional structures. As streaming services continue to reshape the industry, more creators will likely follow in his footsteps, choosing to live and work in countries whose policies better align with their personal and professional values.
