Overview.nz
About Us
Overview was founded and is led by Ben Ruffell — an award-winning aerial cinematographer and photographer, specialising in professional drone cinematography for film, television and commercial productions in Queenstown and throughout New Zealand.
Ben brings a rare combination of creative vision, technical discipline and aviation expertise to every project. With experience operating in controlled and complex airspace, he delivers cinematic aerial footage that meets the demands of high-end production workflows.
Who is Ben Ruffell?
Ben is a CAA Part 102 certified drone pilot and a member of both:
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The New Zealand Cinematographers Society (NZCS)
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The Australian Cinematographers Society (ACS)
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He also holds a RePL drone pilot licence in Australia, enabling professional aerial operations across both countries.
Ben’s work sits at the intersection of cinematography and aviation, combining storytelling instincts with robust safety and compliance practices — a balance that major productions rely on in challenging environments like Queenstown’s alpine terrain and controlled airspace.
Awards & Recognition
Ben’s aerial cinematography has been recognised at major industry awards, including:
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NZCS Bronze — “Mitsubishi” (2025)
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ACS Silver — “NIO: Winter” (2023)
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ACS Silver — “Ricki Lee" (2023)
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NZCS Bronze — “Dawn Flight” (2021)
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NZCS Gold — “Mitsubishi” (2019)
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NZCS Silver — “Telunsu” (2019)
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NZCS Gold — “Flying South” (2016)
These accolades reflect both technical excellence and artistic creativity, and position Ben among New Zealand’s leading aerial cinematographers.
What We Do
At Overview, we provide specialist aerial cinematography and drone filming services for:
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Feature films and television
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High-end commercials and branded content
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Documentary and long-form production
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Corporate and commercial media
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Location-based aerial coverage in Queenstown and beyond.
We operate responsibly under CAA Part 102 certification, with full commercial insurance and a professional approach to risk management, weather, and airspace coordination.
Why Production Teams Choose Us
Production teams work with Overview because we offer:
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Creative aerial direction grounded in cinematic principles
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Reliable, repeatable flight execution
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Compliance with all regulatory and safety requirements
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Clear communication and collaboration with crews of all sizes
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Experience in challenging environments like Queenstown, Otago and South Island locations ​
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View behind-the-scenes production imagery from recent projects here.
Based in Queenstown, Operating Across New Zealand
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Queenstown-based with access to alpine, lake and Central Otago locations
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Experienced in controlled and restricted airspace operations
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Working with international crews, local productions and commercial clients
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Focused on cinematic storytelling and visual quality
​Established in 2015, Overview has delivered aerial cinematography for film and commercial productions across New Zealand for over a decade.
Get in Touch
If you’re looking for an experienced aerial cinematographer or drone pilot for your next production, Overview is here to help.
contact us for enquiries, availability, and tailored project consultation.