Hi, I’m Ben.
I create experiencescommercialsdocumentariesfilms
As a documentary director, DP, and cinematographer based in Aotearoa New Zealand. Clients turn to me for the whole process: developing ideas, directing on location, and delivering high-quality films that resonate. I specialise in immersive, expedition-style filmmaking – adapting to wild environments and human stories.
I also work with brands and commercial clients to craft story-led content with depth and purpose.
About me
My background spans a wide range of projects: documentaries, commercial campaigns, branded content, and TV. I’ve operated solo on long expeditions deep in the backcountry and worked as part of large international crews. Either way, I bring the same focus – clear storytelling, cinematic visuals, and a practical mindset in challenging environments.
Originally from the UK and now a dual citizen of NZ, I’m based in the Southern Alps and regularly travel for projects all over.
I’m known for operating a camera in conditions where others struggle. I have solo-filmed a month-long expedition in the wilderness, self supported and created a series of commercials over 100+ miles on foot and kept up with the fastest teams in an adventure race TV show that spanned almost two months.
At the heart of what I do is a deep love of storytelling – especially stories rooted in our natural world and the people within it. I’m drawn to real, human moments, whether I’m through a short-form documentary, a commercial with genuine depth, or an expedition film deep in the backcountry. It’s that blend of technical skill, story instinct, and grounded energy that’s led producers, broadcasters, and brands to trust me with their stories.
Ben Wallbank – Video Production services in Wanaka, Queenstown, New Zealand and around the world.
Recent Highlights
- Race To Survive: New Zealand | Shooter-Producer on USA Network’s backcountry reality series.
- The Adventure of Racing | Director & DP; award-winning doc aired on Sky TV, now on Amazon Prime.
- Onwards | Director of a vérité cancer doc; premiered at Doc Edge, supported Cancer Society fundraisers.
- Planet 13 | Executive Producer on a scripted short.
- Apple TV | Camera operator for BTS documentary of major alpine-based feature film.
- Red Bull TV / Natural Selection Tour | Camera op.
- Winter Games NZ / Snow Signal | FIS World Cup broadcast camera op; camera op for BTS documentary.
- Wellderness Commercial | Director & DP on a remote, story-led expedition shoot.
- Aspiring Lifestyle | Commercial director & DP; described as “the most powerful ad in 30+ years.”
- Pedals for Powder | Alpine camera op for adventure documentary.
Technicals
ARRI | Alexa
Red | Komodo, DSMC3
Sony | FX9, FX6, FS7
Gimbal, EasyRig
Helicopter Crewman/Gimbal Camera Operator – 5000+ hours