The Michelin Guide Extends Its Global Reach to Aotearoa New Zealand

In a major milestone for New Zealand’s culinary landscape, the MICHELIN Guide has officially arrived!

Marking its first-ever foray into Oceania, the internationally revered MICHELIN Guide has arrived in Aotearoa New Zealand, covering Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown, and hopefully paving the way for more locations around the country in the future.

Signifying a landmark moment for the local hospitality and tourism industries, official MICHELIN inspectors have already begun their renowned anonymous reviews, a process of evaluations that has shaped global culinary reputations for over a century.

As the furthest destination yet to welcome the MICHELIN Guide, Aotearoa now stands proudly on the world’s gastronomic map, offering an entirely new platform for chefs, vineyards and restaurants to shine.

Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive René de Monchy says:
“We couldn’t be prouder of our vibrant food and beverage scene, and it’s thrilling to see it now shining on the international stage through the prestigious MICHELIN Guide. The recognition not only celebrates our culinary excellence but also signals to the world that New Zealand is a must-visit destination. We warmly invite the world to come and experience it for themselves — to taste the flavours of this land and discover the stories behind every plate and pour.”

Minister for Tourism and Hospitality Louise Upston adds:
“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.”

With results set to be unveiled in 2026, the MICHELIN Guide’s world-renowned rating system is built around a structured hierarchy of distinctions, the most coveted being MICHELIN Stars, awarded to restaurants offering truly exceptional dining experiences. One Star recognises “high-quality cooking that is worth a stop,” two Stars denote “excellent cooking that is worth a detour,” and at the pinnacle of culinary distinction, three Stars are reserved for “exceptional cuisine that is worthy of a special journey.”

Alongside the Star ratings, the Bib Gourmand category highlights restaurants offering outstanding food at an approachable price point.

Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guide states: “We are thrilled to bring the MICHELIN Guide to Aotearoa New Zealand for the very 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.”

To learn more about the MICHELIN Guide’s history, methodology and selection process, visit guide.michelin.com