After more than a decade of towering over travelers, Wellington Airport is saying goodbye to its massive Gandalf and eagle sculpture, a beloved tribute to ’The Hobbit’ and ’Lord of the Rings‘ films.
A farewell to Middle-earth
Since 2013, passengers at Wellington Airport have walked beneath two giant eagles, one carrying the legendary wizard Gandalf. Crafted by Wētā Workshop, the sculptures have been a symbol of New Zealand’s deep connection to Peter Jackson’s cinematic adaptations of J.R.R. Tolkien’s works.
However, airport officials have decided to remove the installation, citing a shift toward new themes for the terminal’s design, said a statement released by the airport.
Fans react to the removal
The decision has sparked mixed reactions from travelers and Tolkien fans alike. Some have expressed disappointment, calling the removal “un-New Zealand”, while others understand the airport’s desire for a fresh look.
One traveler, Verity Johnson, shared her sadness:
“It breaks my heart. Please, please reconsider.”
Despite the removal, Wellington Airport isn’t abandoning its fantasy roots entirely, the giant sculpture of Smaug, the gold-hoarding dragon from ’The Hobbit’, will remain in place.
What’s next for the sculpture?
The Gandalf and eagle figures will be placed into storage, with hopes that they will eventually find a new home in a museum. Each eagle features 1,000 3D-printed feathers and weighs over 2,600 pounds (1.1 tons), making them one of the most impressive airport installations in the world.
Airport officials have hinted at a new display coming later this year, though details remain under wraps.
While Wellington Airport moves toward a new era, the legacy of ’Lord of the Rings‘ in New Zealand remains strong. Fans can still visit filming locations, Wētā Workshop, and other Tolkien-inspired attractions throughout the country.
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