The three planned Avatar sequels will be released at Christmas 2016, 2017, and 2018, director James Cameron announced in New Zealand this week.  The announcement was made in conjunction with the unveiling of a new incentive structure for New Zealand film production by Prime Minister John Key. 

Effects house Weta has been working on preliminary design work for the films, which are expected to begin shooting in New Zealand next fall (see "'Avatar' Sequels to Start Shooting Fall 2014").