Nicholas (Nic) Balkum Obituary, WELLINGTON, New Zealand — Nicholas “Nic” Balkum, a highly regarded rigger and technician in New Zealand’s entertainment industry, has died following a medical event at TSB Arena on Friday morning while working during the World of WearableArt season. His death has left colleagues, friends, and members of the wider entertainment community mourning the loss of a respected industry figure.
Balkum came to New Zealand from the United States in 2014 and established himself as a highly skilled rigger and technician. Over the years, he became a familiar and valued presence across the entertainment sector, contributing his expertise to theatre, events, entertainment productions, film, circus, and aerial performance.
His career included work with The Gutter Sluts and The Brotherhood of Stage Pirates in the United States, as well as Cirque du Soleil and numerous shows and production companies throughout New Zealand. He also co-founded and ran YOOCrew in New Zealand and worked closely with Theatrical Solutions.
At the time of his death, Balkum was serving as Head Rigger for World of WearableArt, a production that was described by his colleagues as central to his being. He was remembered as someone who took great pride in his team and in the work he was involved with throughout his career.
Those who worked alongside Balkum described him as calm, amicable, and approachable, qualities that helped him build friendships across the industry and in the many places his work took him. His colleagues said he was more than a friend to them, describing him as a brother whose loss is deeply felt.
Following the medical emergency, Wellington Free Ambulance, New Zealand Police, and Fire and Emergency New Zealand responded to the scene. The team at Wellington Venues was also thanked for its prompt attendance and care for Balkum and those who were present at TSB Arena.
His colleagues expressed gratitude to World of WearableArt for its support and care for Balkum’s family and team, including the difficult decisions surrounding the continuation of the shows following his death. Messages of love and support have also come from people around the world as those who knew him come to terms with the loss.
Balkum is survived by his fiancée, Laura, his family, and a wide network of friends and colleagues throughout the entertainment industry. His loved ones and the YOOCrew team have asked for privacy and space to grieve. Information about a celebration of his life will be announced in the near future. He will be remembered by those who knew him for his skill, dedication, friendship, and the lasting contribution he made to the entertainment community. Fly free, Falcon.
