Greenwave Aotearoa

Seaweed farming installation project / Stewart Island‍

Commercial · Documentary · Sustainability

Film: Greenwave Aotearoa

Project Type: Brand Film, Documentary, Campaign

‍Role: DOP, Editor, Colourist

THE STORY

Greenwave Aotearoa set out to deploy New Zealand’s first commercial seaweed farm using Norwegian technology developed by Arctic Seaweed, in the waters of Rakiura / Stewart Island.

The film follows the installation of the farm and the people behind it, led by Zane Smith, a lifelong Stewart Island local who will go on to manage the farm.

Rather than a traditional corporate approach, the aim was to keep the story grounded, observational, and character-led focusing on real people, place, and process. The inspiration was to lean into a more natural, documentary style of storytelling, where the environment and individuals drive the narrative rather than explanation or promotion.

Alongside Zane, we also follow Henna, the seaweed catcher, and Ryan, who is leading the project, building a wider picture of the people shaping the farm’s future.

The result is a grounded documentary that balances the scale of a pioneering marine project with the human stories at its core.

THE APPROACH

The film was designed to feel observational and people-led, focusing on the individuals behind the project rather than the technology itself.

Working alongside producer/director Tane Tarlton, I contributed to shaping the story in the field, helping guide interviews and identify key narrative moments. Tane retained final creative approval, while I led cinematography and post-production, where the story was formed.

Filming required a flexible, reactive approach across boats, underwater and aerial environments, capturing the installation as it unfolded in real time.

I then edited the material into a 5 minute documentary, 1.5 minute cutdown, and six social reels, maintaining a consistent narrative and visual language across all deliverables. I also completed the colour grade and sound design for the full suite.

I also captured and delivered 50 edited stills