Hey guys! Are you looking for something hilarious and a little bit offbeat to watch? Well, you've come to the right place. New Zealand has been quietly churning out some seriously funny crime comedy series that you absolutely need to check out. These shows blend quirky characters, stunning scenery, and just the right amount of dark humor to create a viewing experience that's both entertaining and uniquely Kiwi. So, grab a cup of tea (or a beer!), settle in, and let's dive into some of the best New Zealand crime comedy series that are guaranteed to make you laugh out loud.

Why New Zealand Crime Comedies Are So Good

What makes these New Zealand crime comedies stand out from the crowd? There are a few key ingredients that contribute to their success. First off, the setting itself plays a huge role. New Zealand's landscapes are breathtaking, ranging from lush green hills to rugged coastlines. This provides a stunning backdrop for the often-absurd situations that the characters find themselves in. Imagine a high-stakes crime drama unfolding against the backdrop of rolling hills dotted with sheep – the contrast is inherently funny!

Another reason these shows work so well is the characters. New Zealand comedies are known for their quirky and relatable characters. They're not your typical slick, polished detectives or hardened criminals. Instead, you'll find ordinary people thrust into extraordinary circumstances, often with hilarious results. These characters are often endearingly flawed, making them easy to root for even when they're making questionable decisions. The humor often comes from the way these characters react to the absurd situations they find themselves in, and their interactions with each other are often comedy gold.

Finally, New Zealand crime comedies have a distinct sense of humor. It's a blend of dry wit, slapstick, and observational humor that perfectly captures the Kiwi spirit. These shows aren't afraid to poke fun at themselves and their culture, and they often use humor to explore deeper themes about identity, community, and the human condition. So, if you're looking for something that's both funny and thought-provoking, you're in for a treat.

Must-Watch New Zealand Crime Comedy Series

Alright, let's get to the good stuff! Here are some of the best New Zealand crime comedy series that you should definitely add to your watchlist:

Wellington Paranormal

Okay, if you haven't heard of "Wellington Paranormal", you're seriously missing out. This spin-off of the cult classic movie "What We Do in the Shadows" follows Officers Minogue and O'Leary as they investigate paranormal events in New Zealand's capital city. Created by Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi, the show has the same mockumentary style and deadpan humor that made the movie so popular. Think "The X-Files" meets "Parks and Recreation", but with vampires, werewolves, and a whole lot of Kiwi charm.

The brilliance of "Wellington Paranormal" lies in its ability to blend the supernatural with the mundane. Minogue and O'Leary are just regular cops trying to do their jobs, even when that job involves chasing rogue ghosts or dealing with demonic possessions. Their reactions to these bizarre situations are always hilarious, and their unwavering dedication to protocol, even in the face of the absurd, is comedy gold. The supporting cast is also fantastic, with memorable characters like Sergeant Maaka, who's always on hand to offer cryptic advice and keep the officers on track. The writing is sharp and witty, and the show is packed with laugh-out-loud moments. Whether you're a fan of the original movie or just looking for a funny and original comedy series, "Wellington Paranormal" is a must-watch.

The Breaker Upperers

Okay, so "The Breaker Upperers" is technically a movie, but it's so good that it deserves a mention. Plus, it was created by Madeleine Sami and Jackie van Beek, the same brilliant minds behind some of New Zealand's best comedy series. The movie follows two women who run a business breaking up couples for cash. They're cynical, hilarious, and not afraid to bend the rules to get the job done. But when one of them develops a conscience, their friendship is put to the test.

"The Breaker Upperers" is a masterclass in comedic timing and physical humor. Sami and van Beek are both incredibly talented performers, and their chemistry is undeniable. The movie is full of memorable scenes and quotable lines, and it's a guaranteed laugh from beginning to end. What sets "The Breaker Upperers" apart from other comedies is its heart. Beneath the surface of the outrageous antics, there's a story about friendship, loyalty, and finding happiness. The movie also features a killer soundtrack of original songs that are both funny and surprisingly catchy. If you're looking for a movie that's both hilarious and heartwarming, "The Breaker Upperers" is a must-see.

800 Words

"800 Words" is a bit of a different beast compared to the other shows on this list, but it still has plenty of comedic moments. This dramedy follows a recently widowed father who moves his two teenage children from Sydney to a small coastal town in New Zealand. He buys a house and starts writing an 800-word column for a newspaper, hence the title. The show explores themes of grief, family, and starting over, but it's also full of humor and heart.

What makes "800 Words" so appealing is its relatable characters and realistic storylines. The father, George, is a flawed but well-meaning guy who's just trying to do his best for his kids. The kids, Arlo and Shay, are typical teenagers dealing with the challenges of adolescence. The supporting cast is also fantastic, with a diverse range of characters who bring humor and warmth to the show. The setting of Weld, the fictional coastal town, is also a major draw. The beautiful scenery and relaxed pace of life create a sense of tranquility that's a welcome escape from the stresses of everyday life. While "800 Words" isn't a laugh-out-loud comedy, it's a heartwarming and funny show that will leave you feeling good.

Taskmaster NZ

Okay, while not strictly a crime series, "Taskmaster NZ" definitely deserves a spot on this list because it's hilarious and showcases Kiwi comedians at their finest. Based on the original British show, "Taskmaster NZ" features a group of comedians who are set a series of bizarre and often absurd tasks by the Taskmaster and his assistant. The comedians then have to complete the tasks in the most creative and hilarious way possible.

The beauty of "Taskmaster NZ" lies in its unpredictability. You never know what kind of crazy tasks the comedians will be asked to do, and their reactions are always priceless. The show is also a great showcase for New Zealand's comedic talent. The comedians are all incredibly funny and quick-witted, and their interactions with each other are always entertaining. The Taskmaster and his assistant add another layer of humor to the show, with their dry wit and sarcastic commentary. If you're looking for a show that will make you laugh out loud and appreciate the comedic genius of New Zealand, "Taskmaster NZ" is a must-watch.

Where to Watch These Gems

Now that you're armed with a list of awesome New Zealand crime comedy series, you're probably wondering where you can watch them. Here's a quick guide:

• Wellington Paranormal: This one is often available on streaming services like HBO Max or your local equivalent. Check your regional listings!
• The Breaker Upperers: You can usually find this movie on Netflix or other streaming platforms that offer movies for rent or purchase.
• 800 Words: You might find this one on Acorn TV, Amazon Prime Video, or your local streaming service that carries international dramas.
• Taskmaster NZ: Check YouTube or local New Zealand television streaming platforms for this one.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – a rundown of some of the funniest New Zealand crime comedy series that are guaranteed to tickle your funny bone. These shows offer a unique blend of humor, heart, and Kiwi charm that you won't find anywhere else. So, grab some snacks, settle in, and get ready to laugh your way through some of the best comedy that New Zealand has to offer. You won't be disappointed!