The Michelin Guide expands to New Zealand for the first time in 2026, recognizing the country’s bold new generation of chefs and locally sourced gastronomy.

Posted on November 6, 2025

In a pioneering step, Michelin guide It is set to expand to New Zealand Debuting in 2026, marking a new chapter in the country’s vibrant culinary scene. Known for its prestigious rankings and global influence, the arrival of the Michelin Guide is a powerful recognition of New Zealand’s bold new generation of chefs, who are redefining the dining experience with innovative techniques and a deep commitment to locally sourced ingredients. This expansion celebrates the country’s culinary evolution, where sustainability, creativity and a strong connection to the land are at the forefront of its gastronomic identity. As the guide prepares to highlight New Zealand’s dynamic food culture, it promises to raise the country’s profile as a global dining destination.

New Zealand’s thriving culinary identity

New Zealand’s culinary evolution has been dynamic and diverse, shaped by the country’s unique geography, rich indigenous Māori culture, and an increasing focus on sustainability. The country’s gastronomic identity is defined by a commitment to locally sourced ingredients, wild game, fresh seafood, and produce that reflects the islands’ distinctive landscape. The fusion of Maori traditions and modern cooking techniques has given birth to a new generation of chefs who prioritize innovation while respecting the land and its history.

Over the past decade, New Zealand’s food scene has gained increasing recognition on the global stage. The Michelin Guide’s decision to list New Zealand acknowledges this shift, putting the country in the spotlight as a destination for discerning travelers and foodies. This expansion is a testament to the remarkable growth of New Zealand’s culinary community and the international recognition of its unique food culture.

Key cities to highlight in the Michelin Guide

The inaugural Michelin Guide in New Zealand will focus on four key cities: Auckland, Wellington, Christchurchand Queenstown. These cities have emerged as world-class dining hubs, each offering distinct flavors and experiences. Auckland, the largest city, is a bustling metropolis known for its multicultural food scene, which blends the flavors of the Pacific Rim with New Zealand culinary traditions. Wellington, the capital, is a hub for cutting-edge cuisine, while Queenstown and Christchurch offer a more intimate, regional approach to food, with menus focusing on local produce and sustainable practices.

Michelin inspectors will begin their assessments anonymously across these cities, using the same strict criteria that have made the guide a global standard. Inspectors will evaluate the quality of ingredients, the creativity of the chefs, the balance of flavors, and the overall dining experience. This process ensures New Zealand’s best dining establishments adhere to the highest standards, enhancing the country’s reputation as a leader in world-class cuisine.

Tourism New Zealand welcomes the Michelin Guide

Tourism New Zealand fully supports the introduction of the Michelin Guide, recognizing the value it will add to the country’s tourism industry. The Michelin Guide is a powerful tool to attract international visitors, especially food lovers looking for Michelin-starred experiences. By highlighting New Zealand’s culinary excellence, the guide will undoubtedly increase interest in the country, and encourage more travelers to explore its cities, regions and food destinations.

The influence of the Michelin Guide extends far beyond the restaurant industry. In many cases, the presence of Michelin-recognized establishments increases tourism overall, as visitors plan their trips around the dining experiences. With this new addition to the Michelin family, New Zealand is poised to see a major boost in culinary tourism, strengthening its position as a world-class destination.

Sustainability and authenticity are at the heart of New Zealand cuisine

What sets New Zealand’s food scene apart is its focus on sustainability, authenticity and a deep respect for the land. The country’s chefs are known for their commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients, many of which are sourced from local farmers, fishermen and foragers. The practice of foraging, in particular, plays a central role in the kitchens of New Zealand’s best restaurants, with local herbs, seaweed and fruit featuring prominently in dishes.

New Zealand’s culinary culture also places a strong emphasis on… manaakitangathe Maori concept of hospitality and caring for others. This philosophy is woven into the fabric of the New Zealand dining experience, where sharing food and fostering relationships with guests is as important as the meal itself. This focus on hospitality is in line with the core values ​​of the Michelin Guide, which seeks to celebrate both the art of cooking and the relationships that form around the table.

A new chapter for Michelin in Oceania

The arrival of the Michelin Guide to New Zealand follows the success of the Michelin Guide Michelin Keys Programwhich has previously recognized several New Zealand hotels for excellence in design, service and character. These initiatives reflect Michelin’s growing commitment to Oceania, highlighting New Zealand’s growing influence in the global hospitality industry. With its unique blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture and world-class restaurants, New Zealand is well positioned to become an important player in the international tourism and hospitality sectors.

In addition to the Michelin Guide’s impact on New Zealand’s restaurant scene, the country’s tourism industry is likely to see a ripple effect, as more visitors seek to experience the culinary offerings that have earned Michelin stars. This will encourage the growth of local food festivals, culinary tours and other food-focused experiences, contributing to a thriving food tourism industry.

Looking to the future: What Michelin means for New Zealand’s culinary scene

As New Zealand prepares for its Michelin Guide debut in 2026, the excitement surrounding the milestone is palpable. New Zealand’s inclusion in the Michelin Guide represents a major leap for the country’s food culture, placing it alongside some of the world’s most respected dining destinations. For New Zealand chefs, restaurants and food producers, the guide’s access provides an unprecedented opportunity to gain global recognition and showcase their craft to a wider international audience.

The Michelin Guide’s expansion into New Zealand also signals a broader trend in the global culinary world, where sustainability, local ingredients and authentic dining experiences are increasingly valued. With its commitment to sustainability, creativity and hospitality, New Zealand is well placed to make its mark on the global culinary map, offering a unique experience for both diners and tourists alike.

As we count down to 2026, New Zealand’s culinary future is brighter than ever. The entry of the Michelin Guide into the country marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for New Zealand’s food scene, and the world will be watching to see which restaurants and chefs will become the country’s culinary stars.