The striking eagle sculptures, inspired by JRR Tolkien's works, have loomed over visitors at New Zealand’s Wellington Airport since their installation in 2013. However, they will be unfastened from the ceiling this Friday. Airport authorities have announced that the eagles, which weigh 1.2 tons each and feature a wingspan of 15 meters, will be placed into storage following their removal.

The sculptures were crafted by Wētā Workshop, the renowned company responsible for the props and costumes in The Lord of the Rings films. Each eagle bears notable detail, including hundreds of feathers and a sculpture of the iconic wizard, Gandalf, riding on one’s back. Despite the removal of the eagles, fans of the franchise can still catch a glimpse of Smaug the Magnificent, the dragon from The Hobbit, which will remain displayed in the check-in area.

Wellington Airport's chief executive, Matt Clarke, expressed a sense of nostalgia in a recent statement, acknowledging the emotional impact of the eagles' departure. He also revealed plans for a unique, locally-themed exhibit to replace the eagles, crafted in collaboration with Wētā Workshop. The airport promises to unveil details about the new addition later this year. Notably, one of the eagle sculptures previously fell during an earthquake in 2014, though thankfully, no injuries were reported.