Wellington Airport's beloved eagle sculptures, inspired by J.R.R. Tolkien's works, will be removed to welcome a new exhibit, prompting nostalgia and curiosity about the future of iconic representations of the film franchise.
**Wellington Airport to Retire Iconic Hobbit Eagle Sculptures for New Exhibit**
**Wellington Airport to Retire Iconic Hobbit Eagle Sculptures for New Exhibit**
Wellington Airport announces the removal of Hobbit-themed eagle sculptures to make room for a new mystery exhibit, generating mixed reactions among fans and local stakeholders.
The giant eagle sculptures that have graced Wellington Airport for over a decade, representing the mystical world of J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit," are set to be taken down this Friday to pave the way for a new mystery exhibit—a decision that has prompted a range of responses from fans and local authorities alike.
These impressive eagles, which weigh 1.2 tonnes each and feature a 15-meter wingspan, will be stored away, with no immediate plans for their future display. Described as messengers in the Tolkien narratives, their presence has served not only as an artistic feature but also as a cultural emblem reflecting New Zealand’s cinematic landscape, particularly under the direction of renowned filmmaker Sir Peter Jackson.
Wellington Airport Chief Executive Matt Clarke expressed mixed feelings: "It's not unusual to see airborne departures from Wellington Airport, but in this case, it will be emotional for us." The eagles were unveiled in 2013, synchronizing with the launch of "The Hobbit" trilogy, and have since been an integral part of the airport’s ambiance, welcoming visitors and drawing connections to the scenic vistas captured in the films.
The giant birds were created by Wētā Workshop, a local company known for its work in film props and costumes. Clarke confirmed that plans are underway for a locally themed replacement, promising to reveal more details later this year, as the airport aims to maintain its ties to the cultural heritage of New Zealand's filmmaking history.
Fans of the franchise can take comfort in knowing that Smaug the Magnificent, the dragon featured in "The Hobbit," will remain on display in the airport's check-in area, providing continuity for enthusiasts. Notably, the eagles faced a dramatic incident in 2014, when one fell during an earthquake; fortunately, no injuries were reported.
As the iconic sculptures prepare for their departure, the airport is stirring anticipation about what new element will rise in their place, ensuring that Wellington remains a significant point of interest for travelers and fans of Tolkien's legacy alike.
These impressive eagles, which weigh 1.2 tonnes each and feature a 15-meter wingspan, will be stored away, with no immediate plans for their future display. Described as messengers in the Tolkien narratives, their presence has served not only as an artistic feature but also as a cultural emblem reflecting New Zealand’s cinematic landscape, particularly under the direction of renowned filmmaker Sir Peter Jackson.
Wellington Airport Chief Executive Matt Clarke expressed mixed feelings: "It's not unusual to see airborne departures from Wellington Airport, but in this case, it will be emotional for us." The eagles were unveiled in 2013, synchronizing with the launch of "The Hobbit" trilogy, and have since been an integral part of the airport’s ambiance, welcoming visitors and drawing connections to the scenic vistas captured in the films.
The giant birds were created by Wētā Workshop, a local company known for its work in film props and costumes. Clarke confirmed that plans are underway for a locally themed replacement, promising to reveal more details later this year, as the airport aims to maintain its ties to the cultural heritage of New Zealand's filmmaking history.
Fans of the franchise can take comfort in knowing that Smaug the Magnificent, the dragon featured in "The Hobbit," will remain on display in the airport's check-in area, providing continuity for enthusiasts. Notably, the eagles faced a dramatic incident in 2014, when one fell during an earthquake; fortunately, no injuries were reported.
As the iconic sculptures prepare for their departure, the airport is stirring anticipation about what new element will rise in their place, ensuring that Wellington remains a significant point of interest for travelers and fans of Tolkien's legacy alike.
