New Zealand is welcoming the Michelin Guide to its shores for the first time, with inspectors already on the ground and dining anonymously at some of the nation’s best restaurants.
Tourism and Hospitality Minister, Louise Upston said the visit is an opportunity to showcase New Zealand’s incredible food and wine to an international audience, as well as boosting visitor numbers and economic growth.
“The Michelin Guide’s arrival in New Zealand marks its first expansion into Oceania after 125 years and we are thrilled to welcome these culinary experts to our shores,” said Ms Upston.
With the first selections and potential ‘star ratings’ due out next year, receiving selection into the Michelin Guide is a prestigious accolade, with its strong international following, the Minister said.
Tourism New Zealand data estimates Michelin’s arrival will bring in up to 36,000 more international visitors.
“That’s reinforced by TNZ research which rates ‘trying local cuisine’ as the #1 audience interest among people actively considering New Zealand for their next holiday (cited by 87% of respondents).”
“Michelin represents an incredible opportunity for the food and beverage industry in four of our key culinary centres, demonstrating excellence and showcasing New Zealand on a world stage.”
She said the visit aligns with the hospitality industry’s recommendation that the Government explore the potential for the Michelin Guide to come to New Zealand in their 2024 Hospitality Summit report.
The inaugural New Zealand edition of the Michelin Guide will be revealed in mid-2026, covering four key destinations: Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown.
In a statement, Gwendal Poullennec (pictured, left), International Director of the MICHELIN Guide said: “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 flavors and talent that make New Zealand such an exciting gastronomic destination.”
“We know our country has a rich and diverse culinary scene. It’s exciting to be able to share New Zealand’s unique flavours and talent with the rest of world,” Ms Upston says.
“Michelin describes New Zealand as an exciting gastronomic destination, with exceptional restaurants.
“Its presence here will mean 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,” she said.
