In a move that stirs nostalgia among fans of J.R.R. Tolkien's work, Wellington Airport will unfasten its towering Hobbit-themed eagle sculptures on Friday. These magnificent creatures, which have welcomed visitors since their installation in 2013 during the release of The Hobbit trilogy, are set to make way for a new, undisclosed attraction, according to airport authorities.
The eagles, which play a significant role as messengers in Tolkien's tales, were inspired by the cinematic adaptations directed by New Zealand's Sir Peter Jackson. Holding a symbolic presence at the airport, the eagles have contributed to the allure of New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes for tourists arriving in the country. "It's not uncommon to see airborne departures from Wellington Airport, but in this case, it will be emotional for us," stated Matt Clarke, Wellington Airport's chief executive.
Each eagle weighs an impressive 1.2 tonnes (1,200kg) and boasts a wingspan of 15m (49ft). Adorned with hundreds of intricately crafted polystyrene feathers, the sculptures also feature a small statue of the wizard Gandalf riding on one eagle's back. Despite their departure from the airport ceiling, Wellington Airport assures fans that the dragon Smaug the Magnificent will remain on display in the check-in area.
Crafted by the famed Wētā Workshop, known for its work on The Lord of the Rings franchise, the eagles captured the imagination of many since their grand unveiling. Clarke mentioned, "We're working with Wētā Workshop on some exciting plans for a unique, locally themed replacement to take their place. We'll unveil what's next later this year, so keep watching the skies."
While the eagles' removal is bittersweet, their storied journey is not without adventure; in 2014, one of the eagles succumbed to an earthquake but fortunately caused no injuries. The legacy of these iconic sculptures will remain a cherished memory for visitors and locals alike as Wellington Airport prepares to transition into a new era of cultural attractions.
The eagles, which play a significant role as messengers in Tolkien's tales, were inspired by the cinematic adaptations directed by New Zealand's Sir Peter Jackson. Holding a symbolic presence at the airport, the eagles have contributed to the allure of New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes for tourists arriving in the country. "It's not uncommon to see airborne departures from Wellington Airport, but in this case, it will be emotional for us," stated Matt Clarke, Wellington Airport's chief executive.
Each eagle weighs an impressive 1.2 tonnes (1,200kg) and boasts a wingspan of 15m (49ft). Adorned with hundreds of intricately crafted polystyrene feathers, the sculptures also feature a small statue of the wizard Gandalf riding on one eagle's back. Despite their departure from the airport ceiling, Wellington Airport assures fans that the dragon Smaug the Magnificent will remain on display in the check-in area.
Crafted by the famed Wētā Workshop, known for its work on The Lord of the Rings franchise, the eagles captured the imagination of many since their grand unveiling. Clarke mentioned, "We're working with Wētā Workshop on some exciting plans for a unique, locally themed replacement to take their place. We'll unveil what's next later this year, so keep watching the skies."
While the eagles' removal is bittersweet, their storied journey is not without adventure; in 2014, one of the eagles succumbed to an earthquake but fortunately caused no injuries. The legacy of these iconic sculptures will remain a cherished memory for visitors and locals alike as Wellington Airport prepares to transition into a new era of cultural attractions.
