"Many people look at New Zealand and see a haven of tranquillity in a troubled world," states Prime Minister Helen Clark. It's become a sanctuary for wealthy Americans seeking the ultimate life change. Since 9/11 property values have shot up 70%. Irritated locals now find themselves priced out of the market. And if the survivalists weren't enough, the country is also being assailed by a more perplexing band of invaders: Lord of the Rings fans. New Zealand has always offered beautiful scenery and splendid isolation but for the first time in its history, the tyranny of distance is working in its favour.