For over a decade, two majestic eagle sculptures, inspired by J.R.R. Tolkien's literary works, have proudly welcomed travelers at New Zealand's Wellington Airport. However, the airport announced that these iconic figures will be removed to accommodate a new mystery exhibit, scheduled to take place shortly. The eagles, represented in Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit," were a collaboration with Sir Peter Jackson, whose films have significantly boosted New Zealand's tourism industry.
Wellington Airport to Bid Farewell to Iconic Hobbit-Inspired Eagle Sculptures
Wellington Airport to Bid Farewell to Iconic Hobbit-Inspired Eagle Sculptures
In a move that surprises fans, Wellington Airport prepares to dismantle its beloved eagle sculptures, making way for a new exhibit.
The Wellington Airport chief executive, Matt Clarke, expressed bittersweet sentiments about the removal, acknowledging how emotional this moment will be for staff and visitors alike. Measuring a considerable 1.2 tonnes each and boasting a wingspan of 15 meters, these sculptures will be placed in storage, although future plans for them remain uncertain. Each sculpture, constructed from polystyrene with a steel framework, captures intricate details, including feathers that can stretch up to 2.4 meters long.
The eagles have greeted passengers since their installation in 2013, coinciding with the launch of "The Hobbit" film trilogy. Their creation was handled by Wētā Workshop, a notable effects studio that played a pivotal role in the production of the films. In light of the eagles' departure, Clarke assured fans that there are promising intentions to introduce a locally themed exhibit as a replacement later this year, hinting that the best is yet to come. It’s worth noting that despite the loss of the eagles, Smaug the Magnificent, the notable dragon from "The Hobbit," will remain on display for fans in the airport's check-in area. The eagles’ handiwork was not without its dramatic moments; one even fell during a 2014 earthquake, thankfully with no injuries reported. As changes unfold, the airport encourages the public to stay tuned for exciting updates surrounding its new exhibit.
The eagles have greeted passengers since their installation in 2013, coinciding with the launch of "The Hobbit" film trilogy. Their creation was handled by Wētā Workshop, a notable effects studio that played a pivotal role in the production of the films. In light of the eagles' departure, Clarke assured fans that there are promising intentions to introduce a locally themed exhibit as a replacement later this year, hinting that the best is yet to come. It’s worth noting that despite the loss of the eagles, Smaug the Magnificent, the notable dragon from "The Hobbit," will remain on display for fans in the airport's check-in area. The eagles’ handiwork was not without its dramatic moments; one even fell during a 2014 earthquake, thankfully with no injuries reported. As changes unfold, the airport encourages the public to stay tuned for exciting updates surrounding its new exhibit.
