The Story Behind the Eagles’ Departure from Wellington Airport
– construction & maintenance, wellington
As part of a series of infrastructure upgrades and terminal enhancements, Wellington Airport announced the removal of the iconic eagle installations. The move marked the end of an era—one filled with photo ops, wonder, and a touch of cinematic magic.
The Challenge
For more than a decade, travellers passing through Wellington Airport were greeted by a soaring spectacle—enormous eagles suspended mid-flight across the main terminal, one carrying the beloved hobbit, Gandalf. These majestic sculptures, inspired by The Hobbit film trilogy, symbolized New Zealand’s deep ties to Middle-earth and served as a stunning welcome to fans from around the world.
But recently, change arrived on the winds.
As part of a series of infrastructure upgrades and terminal enhancements, Wellington Airport announced the removal of the iconic eagle installations. The move marked the end of an era—one filled with photo ops, wonder, and a touch of cinematic magic.
Our solution
a video of the proposed changed as wellington airport
Carrying out such a delicate operation required not just care, but expertise.
Enter RES, the trusted provider of Elevated Work Platforms (EWPs), whose equipment was instrumental in safely accessing and removing the towering structures.
Over several carefully planned days, teams used RES-supplied EWPs to navigate the terminal’s high ceilings, ensuring the sculptures were lowered with precision and respect. With each wing unhooked and every cable detached, the eagles began their descent—not a fall from grace, but a graceful departure.
While their removal sparked nostalgia among travelers and Tolkien fans alike, it also opened the door for new developments in the terminal—fresh spaces, updated design, and new stories waiting to be told.
And though the eagles may no longer fly overhead, their memory lingers in the hearts of those who paused—just for a moment—to look up and believe in the magic of flight.
