Before writing this review I was trying to think of faults in this show that would mean I give it a 9- or 8-star review, but I honestly came up with nothing.
Most importantly, the characters are brilliant, unique and have many layers to them which you will unpack as you go through all the 3 seasons, and the actors/actresses and brilliant at bringing these bold personalities to life without them being overly exaggerated or corny. Probably the most interesing characters are Izzy (Macey Chipping) and Tom (Kirk Torrance). The storylines in Mystic are also great and engaging because each new season introduces more new characters who slightly alter the feel of the show and create new problems and dramas. The side plots involving Dan (Max Crean) and his family also give an insight into Maori culture which people living outside New Zealand would rarely experience. Another thing to note (which has already been mentioned by others) is that the cinematography and scenery is breathtakingly beautiful and calming. Kauri Point is hardly a luxury or modern town and this rough-around-the-edges feel fits perfectly with the wilderness arounf them.
The themes of environmental protection, placing the community above corporate greed, ownership of your mistakes (and all the characters make MANY mistakes, some of them which are hard to watch unfold) and the realisation that your close friends and family are the most trustworthy people all help Mystic to feel very uplifting and refreshing to watch. I think we can all take lessons from the values held by the characters in this show.
It's important to bear in mind that this show is aimed for family viewing so if you enjoy more adult themes then this might not be your cup of tea. However, it certainly doesn't feel like a kids show either, but rather a show everyone can find enjoyment in because of how dynamic it is. I watched it as the first episode premiered in July 2020 when I was 16, and now I'm 21 and it's still my favourite TV show by far.
