2026 to mark the unveiling of Michelin’s first guide in the Pacific with New Zealand

Michelin is bringing its famed Guide to New Zealand for the first time, marking the guide’s inaugural expansion into the Pacific Rim (Oceania) and placi

ng the country firmly on the global culinary map.

Set to be unveiled in mid-2026, the first New Zealand edition will spotlight four dining destinations—Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown—each offering a distinct expression of the nation’s evolving food culture.

Selections are already underway, with Michelin Guide Inspectors traveling anonymously across the country to identify restaurants that best capture the character, creativity, and quality of these culinary scenes.

Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the Michelin Guide, said the move reflects New Zealand’s rich gastronomic identity, shaped by Māori heritage, Pacific influences, and a new generation of chefs who champion local produce with imagination and respect. By highlighting these four cities, Michelin aims to introduce international audiences to the flavors, talent, and stories that make New Zealand an exciting destination for discerning diners.

Demonstrating that New Zealand is a destination for gourmets

The expansion is supported by Tourism New Zealand, which views the recognition as a milestone for the broader hospitality and tourism sector. Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston called it a win not only for chefs and winemakers, but for the people whose dedication brings New Zealand’s food and beverage experiences to life. Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive René de Monchy added that the Michelin Guide signals to the world that New Zealand is a must-visit destination, inviting travelers to taste the land and discover the stories behind every plate and pour.

New Zealand’s cuisine reflects a fusion of cultures and contemporary influences, grounded in exceptional local produce. From seasonal vegetables to iconic grass-fed lamb and beef, ingredients are transformed into modern, globally inspired dishes, often paired with some of the world’s most celebrated wines.

In Auckland, this diversity shines through an inclusive fine-dining scene that celebrates multicultural identity and coastal abundance. Wellington, the country’s creative capital, is known for bold flavors, sustainable farm-to-table practices, and a globally respected coffee culture. Christchurch draws on the South Island’s natural wealth, from Banks Peninsula seafood to Canterbury produce, blending New Zealand staples with Pacific Rim influences. In Queenstown, dramatic alpine landscapes frame a cuisine rooted in Central Otago’s terroir, featuring organic seasonal produce, premium lamb, wild venison, and wines from the world’s southernmost wine region.

Michelin’s arrival reinforces food and wine as gateways to culture, community, and connection in New Zealand. Each meal reflects the wairua, or spirit, of the land, and the manaakitanga—the warm, genuine hospitality—that turns visitors into whānau.

However, Michelin already showed this year its commitment to the sense of hospitality of New Zealand. In its 2025 edition, Michelin Global Keys honored 19 New Zealand hotels, further underscoring the country’s growing international prestige. With Michelin’s spotlight on gastronomy, New Zealand’s food story joins a global conversation—inviting travelers to explore the country through taste.

Related News Stories:  Georgia USA unveils 2026 travel guide ahead of World Cup 2026     MSC Cruises shifting Meraviglia out of New York in 2026     Airlines ramp up services to the Bahamas this winter     Visit USA Association: US travel demand remains strong     Hyatt Centric Brand Expands Its Global Presence with New ...     IHG adds 9 new voco properties in Southern Europe     Accor unveils its most anticipated openings in 2026 - TravelMole     Marriott to launch first EDITION hotel in Africa     Regent Seven Seas Cruises® Reveals Farewell Season ...     Four Seasons to land in Venice and once again in Berlin in 2026 ...