One Lane Bridge

I really tried hard to get very enthusiastic about this show because it has some great redeeming features but ultimately it is let down by some torturous plot lines.

So the good: as an expat Kiwi who has been to Queenstown a lot, One Lane Bridge is a very faithful re-creation of life for the small established elite of this world famous alpine tourist resort town almost to the point that only NZ audiences would understand. The breathtaking scenery is a given and makes for an incredible backdrop. Life on legacy South Island high country sheep stations has become difficult as these operations are asset rich and cash poor and the ever present Chinese or foreign cash buyer is a common occurrence.

Also faithfully detailed is the hard drinking, rugby-centric, rugged outdoors lifestyle of the locals and the hard to watch homophobic incident is a demonstration of how mores from a bygone era live on in small town NZ. It is always nice to hear the full suite of kiwi slang, the accent and traditions on display (e.g. Deer and rabbit shooting). The acting across the board was solid and believable.

Having a young Maori (Cook Islander in this instance) cop come down from Auckland fitting in with very white Central Otago locals gives a good window into racial integration issues in modern NZ. What was less appealing was weaving into regular policing some Maori spiritual practices that neither did justice to how they are actually done nor to modern NZ policing. It led to a series of hard to comprehend flashbacks and the manner in which Detective Ariki Davis (Dominic Ona-Ariki) actually used his spiritual powers overlayed the whole purpose of the series (trying to determine the killer of local farmer Andrew 'Grub' Ryder - Dean O'Gorman) with surreal and awkward plot lines.

That said, it's always great to New Zealand scenery and culture on display.

It's disappointing there's no second season announced (pandemic pause or insufficient interest?) as I'm not quite sure what just happened at the end of the 6th and final episode of season 1. I enjoyed the ride so much, however, I'm not going to nit pick over not having all the questions answered.

I actually enjoyed how little time the series spent on explanation. We are inserted into events and situations pretty much just as the lead character is and we're left with the same confusion he is. I like the important hint from one of the characters near the end about the final surprising scene: "It isn't always what you think."

I am a kiwi and I find in general what we produce is a mixed bag but this show is undoubtedly top shelf. I love a good psychological thriller and this is show keeps you on the edge of your seat. The fantasy element adds a twist to your usual crime drama and the combo of quality writing, great actors and camerawork, as well as suspenseful soundtrack has me hanging on every moment.

This is just one audience members view. I understand there has been mixed reviews but I honestly think that's largely down to personal preference. If you love a good thriller or crime drama, this is the show for you.

An interesting story with a flair of the paranormal - just enough. I hope there is a second season. There are a LOT more story lines to play with!! Plus the scenery is amazing!!

I really enjoyed this,loved the Queenstown setting,the portrayal of the old guard and their lives in this almost idylic part of NZ. I liked the storyline, some original moments, strong twisty who done it plot. It you enjoy NZ movies, this is worth a snuggle up ,on a cold night time slot. The acting was fine, a truthful portrayal of some issues,showing NZ people also need to involve themselves in upping their game. Such as the homophobic and the prickling answer to the question, 'but where are you from'...actually that is a very valid and intelligent question.Especially in New Zealand.not all brown people are Maori, To just assume that ,to me is a racist thought process. who would have picked the Cook Island Maori heritage. .... Our Pacifica peoples all have their own rich culture, different to native Maori.