Wellington Airport is losing a unique piece of its identity as it prepares to unfasten the famous Hobbit-themed eagle sculptures from its ceiling to make room for a new exhibit. For over ten years, these giant birds have welcomed tourists arriving in the vibrant landscapes of New Zealand, immortalized in both "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" film adaptations by Sir Peter Jackson.
Airport authorities confirmed that they will take the dramatic sculptures down on Friday and store them without any immediate plans for their future display. Each eagle, impressively weighing 1.2 tonnes (1,200kg) and boasting a wingspan of 15 meters (49 feet), features a detailed design that includes a sculpture of Gandalf riding one of the birds. Made of polystyrene, with an internal steel structure, the eagles have captivated audiences with hundreds of intricately crafted feathers, the longest measuring an impressive 2.4 meters (8 feet).
The eagles were unveiled in 2013, coinciding with the premiere of "The Hobbit" trilogy, and were fashioned by Wētā Workshop, renowned for its contributions to the film industry in New Zealand. While the iconic eagles may be leaving, Wellington Airport assures fans that Smaug the Magnificent will remain on display within the check-in area.
CEO Matt Clarke expressed the sentiments tied to the eagles’ departure, stating, “It’s not unusual to see airborne departures from Wellington Airport, but in this case, it will be emotional for us.” Clarke also indicated that exciting plans are underway for a locally-themed replacement, which will be revealed later this year, urging fans to stay tuned for new developments. The eagles' legacy, while dimming, will continue to be honored in the heart of Wellington.
This transition is not without a sense of nostalgia; in 2014, one of the sculptures fell during an earthquake, fortunately causing no injuries.
Airport authorities confirmed that they will take the dramatic sculptures down on Friday and store them without any immediate plans for their future display. Each eagle, impressively weighing 1.2 tonnes (1,200kg) and boasting a wingspan of 15 meters (49 feet), features a detailed design that includes a sculpture of Gandalf riding one of the birds. Made of polystyrene, with an internal steel structure, the eagles have captivated audiences with hundreds of intricately crafted feathers, the longest measuring an impressive 2.4 meters (8 feet).
The eagles were unveiled in 2013, coinciding with the premiere of "The Hobbit" trilogy, and were fashioned by Wētā Workshop, renowned for its contributions to the film industry in New Zealand. While the iconic eagles may be leaving, Wellington Airport assures fans that Smaug the Magnificent will remain on display within the check-in area.
CEO Matt Clarke expressed the sentiments tied to the eagles’ departure, stating, “It’s not unusual to see airborne departures from Wellington Airport, but in this case, it will be emotional for us.” Clarke also indicated that exciting plans are underway for a locally-themed replacement, which will be revealed later this year, urging fans to stay tuned for new developments. The eagles' legacy, while dimming, will continue to be honored in the heart of Wellington.
This transition is not without a sense of nostalgia; in 2014, one of the sculptures fell during an earthquake, fortunately causing no injuries.
