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"My Small Town" Captures Kiwi Life, Becomes National Phenomenon

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Friday, February 27th 2026 at 23:09 GMT by The New Zealand Herald
      Locales: Waikato, Auckland, NEW ZEALAND

Auckland, New Zealand - February 28th, 2026 - What began as a simple creative outlet during the strict lockdowns of 2020 has blossomed into a national phenomenon. Tom Sainsbury's 'My Small Town' series continues to captivate audiences across New Zealand, proving that genuine humour and relatable characters can resonate deeply. The series, available on TVNZ+, isn't just a collection of skits; it's a cultural touchstone, a loving - and hilarious - portrayal of Kiwi life that's struck a chord with viewers of all ages.

Initially conceived and filmed on an iPhone, the series' humble origins belie its current widespread popularity. Sainsbury, a comedian known for his quick wit and character work, found himself with unexpected time on his hands during the lockdown periods. "It was during lockdown, so I felt compelled to keep busy and make people laugh," he explained in a recent interview with Newshub. What started as 'really silly stuff' shared with friends quickly morphed into something much bigger, fueled by encouragement and viral sharing online.

But 'My Small Town' isn't just about the pandemic-era context of its birth. It's about capturing the unique spirit of small-town New Zealand - the eccentric characters, the mundane routines, and the unspoken camaraderie. Sainsbury masterfully portrays a cast of instantly recognizable figures: the overly-involved local council member, the gossiping shopkeepers, the perpetually-optimistic community event organiser. These aren't caricatures designed to mock, but affectionate observations of familiar faces we all likely encounter in our own communities.

The show's success stems from its authenticity. Sainsbury isn't striving for high-brow comedy; he's embracing the absurdities of everyday life. The formula isn't reliant on elaborate plots or complicated setups. Instead, the humour arises from the situations themselves, and - crucially - from Sainsbury's masterful improvisational skills. "There's a lot of improv, a lot of silly stuff that just kind of happens, and then we shape it into a story," he revealed. This collaborative approach, where input is welcomed from the entire team, fosters a sense of playful creativity that shines through in every episode.

Playing multiple characters is no small feat, but Sainsbury approaches it with a dedication to detail. He doesn't simply adopt a voice and mannerism; he develops a complete backstory for each character, informing their behaviour and motivations. This commitment to character development, even for brief on-screen appearances, adds layers of depth and believability to the series. Viewers aren't just laughing at these characters; they're often laughing with them, recognising glimpses of themselves, their neighbours, or their family members.

The show has now expanded beyond short-form videos, blossoming into a fully-fledged series for TVNZ+. This expansion hasn't diminished the core charm of 'My Small Town', however. The production team has wisely maintained the series' raw energy and intimate feel, avoiding the temptation to overproduce or sanitize the humour. The show's success highlights a growing appetite for distinctly Kiwi content - stories that reflect our unique culture and experiences.

Sainsbury himself remains remarkably grounded by the overwhelming response to his work. "It's just so lovely seeing people connect with it, and it's just so nice to see people finding humour and joy in it," he says. "I think that's what we all really want." In an increasingly fractured world, 'My Small Town' offers a unifying force, a shared source of laughter and connection that transcends demographics and backgrounds. It's a testament to the power of simple storytelling and the enduring appeal of finding humour in the everyday. The show's continued popularity suggests that Tom Sainsbury's witty observations of small-town New Zealand will continue to bring joy to audiences for years to come.

Looking ahead, fans are eager to see what Sainsbury and his team have in store for future series. While the exact direction remains under wraps, the consistent quality and genuine heart of 'My Small Town' indicate a bright future for this beloved Kiwi comedy.