AUCKLAND, Today: Big news for food lovers, the world’s most prestigious dining guide is coming to Aotearoa. Michelin has announced the launch of The MICHELIN Guide New Zealand, marking its first-ever move into Oceania.
In partnership with Tourism New Zealand, the debut edition will spotlight four culinary hot spots, Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown, each known for their distinctive flavours and creativity.
Set to launch mid-2026, inspectors are already here, dining undercover to discover the best restaurants that capture the essence of Kiwi cuisine and hospitality.
Special PR has been chosen to manage the guide’s New Zealand debut, handling both local and international media. The win follows their celebrated Pou-o-Kai campaign for Tourism New Zealand in 2024.
That campaign, dubbed “the restaurant with the most stars”, saw 50 top global food influencers gather under Canterbury’s night sky to experience New Zealand’s finest food and drink.
“We are thrilled to bring the MICHELIN Guide to Aotearoa New Zealand for the very first time.” – Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guide
Brodie McLeish, GM of Marketing at Tourism New Zealand said, “Pou-o-Kai wasn’t just a restaurant – it was an invitation to MICHELIN, and it is awesome that they heard us and have confirmed our incredible New Zealand hospitality is worthy of inclusion. We believe today’s announcement will drive a significant uplift in tourism visitation, and stronger investment in our hospitality and restaurant sectors.”
Kelly Grindle, Managing Director of Special PR commented, “The ‘restaurant with the most stars’ drove exceptional attention for our cuisine in 2024. We’re beyond proud to be part of the announcement today, which feels like a full circle moment for us.”
Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guide said, “The decision to enter New Zealand was based on the culinary potential and maturity of the destination, assessed through years of inspector visits.”
“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.”
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