Michelin Guide comes to New Zealand

PARIS. The Michelin Guide is expanding its presence. A guide for New Zealand is to be published for the first time in mid-2026. This will be the first guide for Oceania.

The selection of restaurants is already in full swing. The inspectors are currently travelling anonymously around the country to identify the best restaurants that reflect the unique culinary character of the four cities.
character of the four cities. The official announcement of the selection is planned for mid-2026.

Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the Michelin Guide, explains: "We are delighted to bring the MICHELIN Guide to Aotearoa (New Zealand) for the first time. The country offers a rich and diverse culinary landscape, characterised by indigenous Māori heritage, Pacific influences and a new generation of chefs who are showcasing local produce with creativity and passion. By spotlighting the exceptional restaurants in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown, we aim to introduce the world to the unique flavours and talents that make New Zealand such an exciting gastronomic destination."

The expansion of the Michelin Guide to New Zealand is made possible with the valuable support of Tourism New Zealand. Louise Upston, New Zealand's Minister of Tourism and Hospitality, says: "This recognition is more than a success for our chefs and winemakers. It is a triumph for the entire hospitality and tourism sector. It recognises the incredible commitment and talent of the people who bring our culinary experiences to life every day."

René de Monchy, Chief Executive Tourism New Zealand, added: "We are incredibly proud of our vibrant food and beverage scene and it's great to see it shining on the international stage through the prestigious Michelin Guide. This award not only celebrates our culinary excellence, but also demonstrates that New Zealand is a destination that should be experienced. We warmly invite the world to discover the flavours of New Zealand for themselves and learn the stories behind every plate and every glass."