Hot Takes: Netflix's new Stranger Things and what's on in Auckland

A still from Netflix's new series 'Dark'. Photo / Julia Terjung: Netflix

Binge

Netflix's new German series Dark appeared on the site at the weekend with little fanfare, but now it's already being hailed as "the new Stranger Things", but for grown-ups. Billed as a "family saga with a supernatural twist", it follows four families as a small town deals with a series of weird and horrific events. There's death, drugs, missing kids, animals dropping dead and more. But even without all the crime and supernatural stuff, there's also adultery and secrecy and a range of mysteries to unravel. Is it the new Stranger Things? I don't know, but I'm intrigued enough to stick around and find out.

See

The legendary Yusuf/Cat Stevens is coming to New Zealand next week, marking what will be only the second time he has ever played here. He's playing two shows at Auckland's Spark Arena on Wednesday and Thursday and other shows in Christchurch and New Plymouth. Yusuf's 50th Anniversary Peace Train Tour will commemorate his first major hit single and album from 1967 - Matthew and Son. The album features hits like Here Comes My Baby, I've Found a Love, and Portobello Road. The tour is said to be a must-see event for fans of the acclaimed artist.

Go

I remember, growing up, every Christmas we'd gather around the TV with the family to watch Christmas in the Park, so it seems worth mentioning here that you can head along to the real event this Saturday to soak up the Christmas vibes live. This year, the event features headliners Hollie Smith, Tami Neilson and The Koi Boys as well as a massive lineup of up-and-coming talent from around New Zealand. The Coca-Cola Christmas in the Park kicks off at 7.30pm on Saturday at the Auckland Domain and entry is free. Enjoy!

Coca-Cola Christmas in the Park last year. Photo / Supplied

Listen

Two words: Winston Surfshirt. A colleague recommended this Aussie band to me, pitching them as Anderson .Paak meets Tame Impala. I was dubious. But because I love .Paak, I gave it a try and man, they're cool (as if the name wasn't enough to tip you off). Their album, Sponge Cake is laid back and summery as hell, mixing soul, pop, psychedelia and electro with old school hip hop and chilled rap, plus Surfshirt has a cool voice which you really wouldn't expect to come out of his mouth. If you're looking for your next summer chill album, I cannot recommend these guys enough.