GORDON LIGHTFOOT | Culture
WINDS OF CHANGE
Wellington Mayor Tory Whanau is flying high for the first time in months after a snap referendum delivered her an unexpected win — though not everyone is flapping with joy.
In what many are calling a last-ditch attempt to shift her sagging poll numbers, Whanau proposed the removal of the two enormous Lord of the Rings eagles from Wellington Airport. The washed up birds would be replaced by Hurricanes mascot Captain Hurricane in his signature fighter plane, along with All Blacks great Christian Cullen as his copilot.
The referendum passed with a gusty 62% majority, confirming that Wellingtonians are ready to retire the washed up birds of prey in favour of some good honest rugby memorabilia.
“These eagles have had their time,” said Mayor Whanau at a press conference held in front of a wind-blasted council building. “We’re a rugby city, a Hurricanes city. It’s time we had an airport that reflects our true story— not just Peter Jackson’s.”
The new installation will feature Captain Hurricane flying low over the food court, with Cully tucking a ball under one arm and pointing towards the try line — or possibly the Koru Lounge.
Local resident Daryl Ngata summed up the mood: “Honestly, I stopped noticing the eagles years ago. But if I get to see Cully flying a plane every time I land, that’s a win.”
Not everyone is thrilled. Some diehard Tolkien fans have threatened to stage a silent protest dressed as orcs, but even they admit the eagles have looked “a bit faded” since at least 2016.
For Mayor Whanau, it’s a much-needed boost ahead of local elections this October.
More to come.
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