Michelin has revealed that the Michelin Guide is coming to New Zealand. Marking a historic first in 125 years, the guide will feature restaurants from Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown in its debut New Zealand edition, set for release in 2026.
The process of selecting restaurants is already in progress, with Michelin Guide Inspectors dining anonymously on site to find the top restaurants that highlight the distinctive character of each location.
“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,” said Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the Michelin Guide.
Tourism Minister Louise Upston stated that the new guide is projected to attract around 36,000 additional international visitors to the country.
“Receiving selection into the Michelin Guide is a prestigious accolade, with its strong international following,” Upston said.
“That’s reinforced by Tourism NZ research which rates ‘trying local cuisine’ as the number one audience interest among people actively considering New Zealand for their next holiday.”
She said the presence of Michelin in the country means “more visitors dining in those restaurants and enjoying all New Zealand’s hospitality has to offer – supporting small businesses, supporting jobs and supporting local economies in the process.”
For Tourism New Zealand chief executive René de Monchy, “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.”