Animation, with its unique ability to mould creativity and imagination into stunning visual spectacles, has captivated audiences across the world for generations.
Today, it spans a broad spectrum of genres and themes, making it a versatile medium enjoyed by viewers of all ages. New Zealand is no exception to this trend, with Kiwi viewers enjoying a rich selection of animated series on Netflix.
From timeless classics to fresh and innovative new series, these shows represent the best of animated storytelling. Whether you’re in the mood for gut-busting comedy, fantastical adventure, or poignant drama, this curated list of the best animated shows on Netflix New Zealand is here to help you find your next favorite watch.
Popular Animated Series on Netflix
Castlevania (2017)
Inspired by the renowned video game franchise, “Castlevania” is a grim medieval fantasy series. It follows Trevor Belmont, the last descendant of the disgraced Belmont clan, who fights against the infamous Vlad Dracula Tepes to save Eastern Europe from impending doom.
As Dracula and his vampire army prepare to wipe out humankind, Belmont and his ragtag team scramble to find a way to avert the apocalypse.
| IMDb Rating | Program Creator | Release Date | Genre |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8.3/10 | Warren Ellis | 2017 | Animation, Action, Adventure |
Death Note (2006)
A masterstroke in the realm of anime, “Death Note” focuses on Light Yagami, an intelligent, bored student with a god complex. His life takes an unprecedented turn when he discovers a mystical notebook belonging to a death god, or Shinigami.
This notebook holds a dreadful power: anyone whose name is written within it dies. As Light embarks on a twisted justice journey, even the characters who are meant to be moral compasses, like the protagonist/antagonist L, are shown to have ethical flaws.
The series blends elements of suspense, philosophy, and dark humor seamlessly, creating an intensely captivating narrative, top rated best animated shows on Netflix. A subsequent live-action movie was also inspired by this acclaimed anime series.
| IMDb Rating | Program Creators | Release Date | Genre |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9/10 | Madhouse, Shueisha, VAP, Nippon TV, D.N. Dream Partners | 2006 | Animation, Crime, Drama |
Avatar: The Last Airbender (2005)
Centering on twelve-year-old Aang, the current Avatar and the last survivor of the Air Nomads, “Avatar: The Last Airbender” offers an enthralling journey.
Aang, along with his friends Katara, Sokka, and later Toph, embark on a mission to end the Fire Nation’s war against the world. Combining elements from various Asian cultures and merging anime with American comics, this series presents an engaging and unique visual style.
| IMDb Rating | Program Creators | Release Date | Genre |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9.3/10 | Michael Dante Dimartino, Bryan Konietzko | 2005 | Animation, Action, Adventure |
Love, Death, and Robots
A collection of animated shorts spanning science fiction, adventure, horror, and comedy, “Love, Death, and Robots” offers a visceral viewing experience.
This anthology series unravels stories ranging from alternate histories to a post-apocalyptic city’s robot life, each unique in its narrative style and thematic exploration.
| IMDb Rating | Program Creators | Release Date | Genre |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8.4/10 | Tim Miller, David Fincher | 2019 | Animation, Short, Comedy |
Bojack Horseman
Featuring an anthropomorphic horse named BoJack Horseman, a washed-up sitcom star from the ’90s, “BoJack Horseman” is a poignant exploration of fame, addiction, and depression.
With the help of a ghostwriter, BoJack hopes to reclaim his relevance through an autobiography. The series’ ability to balance humour and depth sets it apart.
| IMDb Rating | Program Creator | Release Date | Genre |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8.8/10 | Raphael Bob-Waksberg | 2014 | Animation, Comedy, Drama |
Arcane
If you think animated series are only for gamers, “Arcane” will prove you wrong, one of the best animated shows on Netflix. Its engrossing narrative and mature themes surpass many live-action shows. The series sets a new standard for video game adaptations, skillfully bringing to life a complex story without diluting the essence of its source material.
| IMDb Rating | Program Creators | Release Date | Genre |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9/10 | Alex Yee, Christian Linke | 2021 | Animation, Action, Adventure |
Inside Job
Combining elements of “The X-Files” and “Futurama,” “Inside Job” delves into the world of conspiracy theories and state secrets. The show’s narrative is centered on Reagan Ridley, an employee at Cognito, Inc., a company that creates and disseminates these conspiracies.
| IMDb Rating | Program Creator | Release Date | Genre |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7.6/10 | Shion Takeuchi | 2021 | Animation, Comedy, Sci-Fi |
Masters of the Universe: Revelation
This fresh take from Kevin Smith builds on the original 1980s series, casting Teela in the hero’s role as she strives to protect Adam and Eternia from Skeletor’s plots. This series retains the spirit of the original while introducing new narrative elements, making it a must-watch for new and returning fans alike.
| IMDb Rating | Program Creator | Release Date | Genre |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5.4/10 | Kevin Smith | 2021 | Animation, Action, Adventure |
The Last Kids on Earth
A post-apocalyptic comedy that strays from the bleakness of shows like “The Walking Dead,” “The Last Kids on Earth” is a delight for teenagers who relish in chaos and humor. It’s a fantastical romp that focuses on found family and absurd situations.
| IMDb Rating | Production Company | Release Date | Genre |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7.3/10 | Atomic Cartoons, Koko Productions Inc. | 2019 | Animation, Short, Adventure |
Voltron: Legendary Defender
In “Voltron: Legendary Defender,” a group of teenagers are whisked away from Earth to pilot robotic lions in an interstellar war. As the Voltron Paladins, they must learn to work together to harness the power of Voltron and defeat the Galra Empire.
| IMDb Rating | Production Creators | Release Date | Genre |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8.1/10 | Joaquim Dos Santos, Lauren Montgomery | 2016 | Animation, Action, Adventure |
Conclusion
The diverse world of animation brings to life stories that are not just visually stunning, but also brimming with compelling narratives, relatable characters, and thought-provoking themes.
As we’ve explored in this article, Netflix New Zealand offers a multitude of these immersive animated experiences, catering to a wide range of tastes and interests.
Be it the whimsical charm of a children’s series, the profound nuances of an adult drama, or the adrenaline rush of an action-packed adventure, there is an animated series waiting to take you on a memorable journey.
So, grab some snacks, settle in, and dive into the vibrant, boundless universes that the best animated shows on Netflix New Zealand have to offer. Happy viewing!
