In Brokenwood, every friendly smile hides a secret—and every crime has a hometown twist
The Brokenwood Mysteries is a long-running New Zealand detective drama that first aired in 2014 and continues to charm audiences with its blend of quirky characters, clever murder mysteries, and a calm, small-town atmosphere that hides a darker edge. Set in the fictional rural town of Brokenwood, each feature-length episode offers a standalone case, mixing traditional "whodunit" storytelling with a distinctly Kiwi flavor.
At the center of the series is Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Shepherd—a country music-loving, soft-spoken investigator with a knack for solving murders and a habit of talking to corpses. He’s paired with Detective Kristin Sims, sharp, pragmatic, and often baffled by Shepherd’s unconventional methods. Their chemistry brings both humor and heart to the show, creating a partnership that’s as engaging as the cases themselves.
What makes Brokenwood stand out is its tone. Unlike the high-stakes, high-speed crime dramas of the U.S. or U.K., this series takes its time. The pace is deliberate, the crimes are personal, and the setting—a sun-drenched, vineyard-dotted New Zealand town—provides a serene contrast to the dark deeds uncovered with every episode.
Each mystery leans into local culture and small-town eccentricities: murders at wine festivals, amateur theater productions, even sheep-shearing contests. But beneath the humor and charm lies sharp plotting and a quiet understanding of human nature. The show rarely needs gore or graphic content to make its point—just secrets, motives, and the long shadows cast by guilt.
Over its many seasons, The Brokenwood Mysteries has developed a devoted following thanks to its steady quality, consistent tone, and endearing cast. For fans of shows like Midsomer Murders or Death in Paradise, this is a must-watch—especially if you like your mysteries slow-cooked, character-rich, and just a little bit weird.
