Michelin Guide confirmed for NZ
The world-renowned Michelin Guide is coming to New Zealand, with its first selection of restaurants due to be unveiled in 2026.
The inaugural edition marks the Guide’s first-ever expansion into Oceania and will cover Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown.
The Michelin Guide says that its inspectors have already begun their assessments of restaurants around New Zealand, dining anonymously to identify those who will make up the first list.
Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guide, says they are thrilled to bring it to New Zealand for the first time. “The country offers a rich and diverse culinary landscape, shaped by its indigenous Māori heritage, Pacific influences, and a new generation of chefs who champion local produce with creativity and passion. By highlighting the exceptional restaurants of Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown, we hope to share with the world the unique flavours and talent that make New Zealand such an exciting gastronomic destination.”
The expansion to New Zealand was made possible through the support of Tourism New Zealand and had been highlighted as a goal at the 2024 Hospitality Summit.
Nick Keene, Hospitality NZ’s Interim Chief Executive, says Michelin’s arrival is a huge win for New Zealand’s hospitality community. “The Michelin Guide is one of the biggest names in global dining, and their decision to expand to New Zealand puts us firmly on the international culinary map.
“It’s fantastic to see a recommendation from the Hospitality Summit realised – we acknowledge the Restaurant Association and our spirit of collaboration. This is a great example of government and industry working together to promote New Zealand hospitality, and a reflection of the work of many to attract Michelin to our shores.”
Minister for Tourism and Hospitality Louise Upston said: “This recognition is more than a win for our chefs and winemakers — it’s a triumph for our entire hospitality and tourism sector. It celebrates the incredible dedication and talent of the people who bring our food and beverage experiences to life every day.”
The Michelin Guide was created in 1900 by the Michelin tyre company to support the growth of automobile mobility. It says its mission is to “...settle in mature gastronomic destinations, to guide international travellers and local foodies to the best restaurants, to highlight world culinary scenes, and to promote travel culture.”
Michelin Stars are awarded to restaurants offering the best culinary experiences. One Michelin Star is for “high-quality cooking that is worth a stop,” two Michelin Stars for “excellent cooking that is worth a detour,” and three Michelin Stars for “exceptional cuisine that is worth a special journey.”
Alongside the Star ratings, the selection also includes the popular Bib Gourmand category, a distinction awarded to restaurants that provide “good quality food at a moderate price”.
