Wellington Airport in New Zealand has been a point of interest for fans of Peter Jackson’s epic films for over a decade. At the heart of this attraction are two colossal eagle sculptures, reminiscent of those from the “Hobbit” films, which have dominated the terminal since 2013. Each eagle boasts a wingspan of 50 feet (15 meters) and weighs around 2,600 pounds (1.1 ton), making them a striking presence as they hover high above travelers. Over the years, these sculptures have become a must-see, enchanting tourists and causing quite a stir among children.
Their stay at the airport has been a colorful one. Back in 2016, during a particularly fierce earthquake, one eagle lost its grip and plummeted onto the terminal floor. Fortunately, no one was harmed. But the time has come for these majestic figures to bow out. Wellington Airport recently announced that the Gandalf-borne eagles would be leaving their terminal perch this month.
Matt Clarke, the airport’s chief executive, expressed a desire to reshape the airport’s narrative, which has long been tied up with the “Lord of the Rings.” As he says, “We’re looking to change that to something new.” For some, like traveler Verity Johnson who reminisced under the eagle’s claws in the food court, the decision is bittersweet. She pleaded for a rethink, saying the eagles had been a part of her life since childhood. Michael Parks, another visitor, humorously lamented their exit, suggesting it’s “un-New Zealand” to let them go.
The eagles were masterfully crafted by W?t? Workshop, a prestigious props and effects company responsible for the myriad of props that brought Jackson’s visionary interpretations of J.R.R. Tolkien’s works to life. Jackson, a celebrated resident of Wellington, was instrumental in ensuring the city remains etched in the hearts of fantasy fans around the world. Although the city’s direct Tolkien-related tourism has dwindled over the years, its legacy continues with fans visiting film locations or stopping by W?t? Workshop.
As Clarke mentioned, the birds will be on display until Friday before being safely stored away, with hopes they might be displayed in a museum in the future. Every feature—down to the 1,000 3D-printed feathers on each bird—marks them as a significant artistic achievement, and for many, they’re a source of wonder and nostalgia.
However, fans of quirky airport art can rest easy, as the enormous sculpture of Smaug, the dragon from “The Hobbit,” will continue its watch over the check-in counters. This ensures that Wellington Airport retains a piece of its fantastical charm even as it moves into a new era.