What's happened
Wellington Airport will remove its iconic eagle sculptures, which have been a fixture since 2013, by the end of this week. The decision reflects a shift away from the airport's Lord of the Rings theme, despite the sculptures' popularity among travelers. They will be put into storage, with hopes for a future museum display.
What's behind the headline?
Impact of the Eagles' Departure
- Cultural Significance: The eagles symbolize Wellington's identity tied to the Lord of the Rings franchise, which has significantly influenced local tourism and economy.
- Tourism Trends: As Tolkien tourism wanes, the airport's shift indicates a broader trend in adapting to changing visitor interests.
- Future Prospects: The airport plans to unveil a new display by Wētā Workshop later this year, suggesting a continued commitment to unique artistic installations.
- Public Sentiment: The emotional responses from travelers highlight the eagles' role in creating memorable experiences, indicating that their removal may impact visitor perceptions of the airport.
What the papers say
According to the South China Morning Post, airport CEO Matt Clarke stated, "It’s been quite a Lord of the Rings-heavy storytelling theme in here. Now we’re looking to change that to something new." This sentiment is echoed by The Independent, which notes that the eagles have delighted tourists since their installation but are now being removed as part of a thematic shift. Travelers like Verity Johnson expressed sadness, saying, "It breaks my heart," emphasizing the emotional connection many have with the sculptures. The decision to store the eagles rather than display them permanently raises questions about the future of such iconic installations in public spaces.
How we got here
The eagle sculptures, crafted by Wētā Workshop, were installed in 2013 to celebrate Wellington's connection to Peter Jackson's films. Over the years, they have become beloved by tourists, although interest in Tolkien-themed tourism has declined.
Go deeper
- What will replace the eagle sculptures at the airport?
- How has Tolkien tourism changed in Wellington?
- What are the new plans for the airport's display?
More on these topics
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Wētā Workshop is a special effects and prop company based in Miramar, New Zealand, producing effects for television and film. The company is named after the New Zealand wētā, one of the world's largest insects, which is featured in the logo.
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Wellington Airport is an international airport located in the suburb of Rongotai in Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand. It lies 3 NM or 5.5 km south-east from the city centre. It is a hub for Air New Zealand and its subsidiaries.
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New Zealand is an island country in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. It comprises two main landmasses—the North Island and the South Island —and around 600 smaller islands, covering a total area of 268,021 square kilometres.