Wellington Airport Bids Farewell to Beloved Giant Eagles After 12 Years
For twelve years, they soared silently over Wellington Airport, magnificent symbols of fantasy and New Zealand’s cinematic prowess. The two giant eagles, iconic installations since the release of the second Hobbit film in 2013, are now preparing to embark on their own journey, migrating to new, yet undisclosed, locations. The announcement, made on Monday, May 5th, by the airport authority, marks the end of an era for the landmark that has captivated travelers and locals alike.
Matt Clarke, Chief Executive of Wellington Airport, expressed a bittersweet sentiment in a statement, acknowledging the profound impact the sculptures have had. "The sculptures have been an enormous success and loved by travellers from around the world," he said, emphasizing the global appeal and recognition the eagles have garnered. "But after twelve years, the time has come for them to leave the nest."
These majestic raptors were not simply decorative additions; they were carefully crafted works of art, each weighing a staggering 1.2 tonnes and boasting a wingspan of 15 meters. The creation of these impressive sculptures was entrusted to Weta Workshop, the renowned New Zealand-based company specializing in special effects and prop design for film and television. Weta Workshop has carved a niche for itself as a leading force in bringing fantastical worlds to life, and their involvement with the eagles solidified their connection to the iconic fantasy genre.
The company’s pedigree is inextricably linked to the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit trilogies. Founded by renowned makeup artist Richard Taylor, Weta Workshop has garnered numerous accolades for its contributions to Peter Jackson’s cinematic masterpieces. Taylor himself is a recipient of multiple Academy Awards, including Best Makeup in 2002 and 2004 for The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring and The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, respectively. The company also secured the Best Visual Effects award in 2002 for The Fellowship of the Ring and Best Costume Design in 2006 for The Return of the King.
Beyond their work on the Lord of the Rings saga, Weta Workshop has lent its expertise to a diverse range of films, including the first two films of the Chronicles of Narnia series, Peter Pan, and most recently, Dune: Part Two. However, it is their association with Tolkien’s universe that has cemented their place in popular culture, and the Wellington Airport eagles stand as a testament to that legacy.
The impetus for the eagle installations arose from the release of The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug in 2013, the second film in the Hobbit trilogy, a prequel to the Lord of the Rings saga. The film’s stunning visuals and the prominence of eagles in the storyline provided the inspiration for Weta Workshop’s ambitious project.
Wellington Airport recognizes the vital role that the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit trilogies have played in shaping New Zealand’s identity and attracting tourism. The three films adapted from J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit, released between 2012 and 2014, were filmed entirely in New Zealand, showcasing the country’s breathtaking landscapes and natural beauty. The films’ success has led to a surge in tourism, with fans flocking to the island nation to experience the iconic locations that served as the backdrop for the films.
The allure of Middle-earth is undeniable. Tourists eagerly seek out the plains of Mordor, the landscapes of Gondor, and the imposing Lonely Mountain, immersing themselves in the fantastical world brought to life on screen. Even the village of Hobbiton, meticulously recreated from Tolkien’s descriptions, has become a must-see destination, drawing visitors from around the globe.
The departure of the giant eagles, one of which features the iconic character Gandalf perched atop its back, is undoubtedly an emotional moment for the airport staff and frequent travelers. Clarke acknowledged this sentiment, recognizing the significance of the sculptures as a beloved landmark. However, he also offered reassurance, confirming that Weta Workshop is currently collaborating with Wellington Airport to design a "unique replacement" that will continue to capture the spirit of fantasy and adventure.
According to Clarke, the forthcoming sculptures will also draw inspiration from the world of Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, the very universe that has fueled New Zealand’s tourism boom since 2001. The airport remains committed to providing visitors with an immersive and memorable experience, and the new installations will undoubtedly contribute to that goal.
In the meantime, visitors to Wellington Airport can find solace in the presence of another iconic figure from the Hobbit saga: a sculpture of Smaug, the formidable dragon, which can be seen in the baggage claim area. While the eagles may be leaving the nest, the spirit of Middle-earth will continue to soar within the walls of Wellington Airport. The airport’s commitment to celebrating New Zealand’s cinematic heritage ensures that the legacy of Lord of the Rings and the Hobbit will endure, continuing to inspire and captivate travelers for years to come. The transition marks not an end, but a change, a shift that preserves the airport’s fantastic ambiance while preparing it for a fresh wave of imaginative installations.
