NZ airport to remove Hobbit-themed eagle sculptures

After more than a decade of guarding Wellington Airport, the iconic Hobbit-themed eagle sculptures are set to be removed, marking the end of an era for the New Zealand airport.

The giant eagles, which have become synonymous with the airport, have been casting a watchful eye over visitors since their installation. They were unveiled in 2013 to coincide with the release of the second Hobbit film, “The Desolation of Smaug,” and have since become a popular tourist attraction in their own right.

The sculptures, which are suspended from the ceiling of the airport’s main terminal, have been a testament to New Zealand’s association with the world-renowned fantasy series. The country served as the filming location for both ‘The Lord of the Rings’ and ‘The Hobbit’ trilogies, directed by Kiwi filmmaker Peter Jackson.

The removal of the eagles comes as part of a broader terminal upgrade, which is set to include an expanded duty-free shopping area, more space for airport lounges, and additional food and beverage outlets. The decision to remove the sculptures was not made lightly, according to airport officials.

“While we understand the eagles are a beloved fixture for both locals and visitors, the terminal upgrade is necessary to cater to the growing number of passengers using Wellington Airport,” said Wellington Airport spokesperson, Rebecca Thompson. “We are committed to retaining the unique character of the airport while modernizing its facilities.”

However, the removal of the eagles has been met with disappointment from fans of the Tolkien universe. Many expressed their dismay on social media, lamenting the loss of the sculptures that have become synonymous with New Zealand’s role in bringing Middle Earth to life.

Despite the sadness surrounding the removal, Wellington Airport has assured fans that the eagles will not be gone forever. Discussions are underway to find a new home for the sculptures, with a number of local institutions expressing interest.

“We are in talks with several parties who are interested in rehoming the eagles,” Thompson revealed. “We are hopeful that they will find a new home where they can continue to be enjoyed by the public.”

In the meantime, the airport will continue to celebrate its ties with the fantasy series. Visitors can still enjoy the 13-meter Gollum sculpture, which was installed in 2012 to mark the release of the first Hobbit film and will remain in place.

The Hobbit-themed sculptures have been a symbol of New Zealand’s strong ties with the fantasy genre since their installation. They have welcomed millions of visitors, many of whom traveled to the country specifically to explore the stunning landscapes featured in the films.

The removal of the eagles, while necessary for the airport’s modernization, undoubtedly marks the end of an era. As Wellington Airport moves forward with its renovations, the hope is that a new home will be found for the sculptures, allowing them to continue their watchful duty and maintain their status as iconic symbols of New Zealand’s connection to the fantastical world of Middle Earth.