Luke Thornborough is writer and director, currently living off-grid on Aotea (Great Barrier Island) and working for the Department of Conservation. With a career spanning theatre, film, and documentary, he combines his creative talents with a commitment to meaningful change, using stories to connect people with one another and to the natural world. In documentary filmmaking, Luke has tackled pressing social and environmental issues. His work with the Ministry of Social Development encouraged men to embrace positive masculinity, while his collaboration with the University of Auckland explored the health of New Zealand’s soils. In the commercial realm, he has directed and edited hundreds of hours of content for leading New Zealand brands, including Air New Zealand, Moana Fisheries, Zespri, Fonterra, Silver Fern Farms, BNZ, NZ Steel and the Department of Conservation, blending storytelling with environmental advocacy. A multi-award-winning playwright, Luke is best known for ALONE, a play he wrote and directed. Praised for its authenticity and emotional depth, the production has toured internationally for over five years, earning critical acclaim and resonating deeply with audiences. His short films have also received international recognition, with his film Stay screening in competition at the Giffoni Film Festival as well as playing at the New Zealand International Film Festival. He has also directed music videos for top New Zealand artists (Titanium, Danelle and Ryan Enzed). Luke's work reflects a belief in the power of stories to inspire change, weaving together themes of human connection, resilience, and environmentalism. Whether on stage, on screen, or in his off-grid life, Luke has a passion for inspiring others to care for both the planet and for each other.