The Brokenwood Mystery is a captivating New Zealand detective drama that first graced our screens in 2014 on Prime. Set in the charming fictional town of Brokenwood in New Zealand’s North Island, the series is beautifully filmed in the greater Auckland region.
Tim Balme, who is the show’s creator, head writer, and producer, has created a distinctive blend of intriguing mysteries and regional culture. Since 2021, The Brokenwood Mysteries has found a new home on TVNZ One, continuing to delight audiences with its engaging storylines and memorable characters.
Know the Cast of ‘The Brokenwood Mysteries’
- Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Shepherd (Neill Rea):
- Seeks a quieter life in Brokenwood.
- Holds many personal secrets, including multiple marriages.
- Has a nephew with Down syndrome who loves country music and his classic 1971 Holden Kingswood.
- Employs unconventional crime-solving methods that often perplex his colleagues.
- Detective Kristin Sims (Fern Sutherland):
- A cynical and intelligent young detective with a history of dating misfortunes.
- Often irritated by Shepherd’s bluntness and methods.
- Gradually learns to appreciate Shepherd’s skills and instincts.
- Detective Constable Sam Breen (Nic Sampson, series 1-7):
- A young officer prone to embarrassing and awkward encounters with suspects.
- Moves away in season 7 to support his girlfriend’s new job in the Solomon Islands.
- Detective Constable Daniel Chalmers (Jarod Rawiri, series 7-present):
- Replaces Breen after his departure.
- A Māori officer with prior experience as a uniformed officer.
- Brings a no-nonsense approach to the Brokenwood CIB.
- Dr. Gina Kadinsky (Cristina Ionda):
- The eccentric Russian medical examiner.
- Often reminisces about life in Russia and struggles to understand English humor.
- Frequently hints at her attraction to Shepherd, which he does not reciprocate.
Where Was ‘The Brokenwood Mysteries’ Filmed?
Warkworth:
Serves as the real-life stand-in for the fictional town of Brokenwood.
A historic riverside village featuring a picturesque boardwalk, boutique shops, and scenic walking trails.
Helensville:
The Brokenwood Police Station is filmed in a former post office building in this town.
Kumeu Valley Estate:
Another key filming location is Auckland, contributing to the series’ beautiful settings.
Puhoi:
This quaint village is also featured as a filming location, adding to the show’s charm.
These locations enhance the visual appeal of The Brokenwood Mysteries, immersing viewers in the stunning landscapes of New Zealand.
What’s the Story Behind ‘The Brokenwood Mysteries’?
The Brokenwood Mystery follows the captivating journey of Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Shepherd as he navigates the quirky and often mysterious landscape of the fictional New Zealand town of Brokenwood.
After deciding to trade the chaos of city life for a quieter existence, Shepherd finds himself drawn into a series of intriguing murder cases that unravel the town’s secrets and hidden complexities.
Alongside his team, including the sharp-witted Detective Kristin Sims and the occasionally awkward Constable Sam Breen, he tackles each case with a unique blend of intuition and unconventional methods.
As the team delves into the lives of the townspeople, they not only seek justice but also uncover the rich tapestry of relationships and history that bind Brokenwood together. With a mix of humor, heart, and suspense, the series paints a vivid portrait of a community where everyone has a story—and often, a motive.
The Brokenwood Mysteries Review
The Brokenwood Mysteries offers a delightful blend of intrigue, humor, and heart, making it a standout in the detective genre. The show’s setting in the picturesque town of Brokenwood brings a unique charm, with the scenic New Zealand landscape adding to its allure.
The characters are richly developed, particularly Detective Mike Shepherd, whose quirky methods and hidden depths make him a compelling lead. The dynamic between him and Detective Kristin Sims provides both tension and camaraderie, allowing for plenty of character growth and unexpected moments.
The series successfully balances suspenseful murder mysteries with lighthearted moments, often exploring the relationships and secrets that lie beneath the surface of small-town life. The engaging plots keep viewers guessing, while the strong sense of community among the characters adds warmth and relatability.
Overall, The Brokenwood Mysteries captivates with its engaging storytelling and vibrant characters, inviting audiences to become a part of this charming world filled with intrigue and discovery.
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