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Fifteen New Zealand restaurants have earned MICHELIN stars at the inaugural MICHELIN Guide Restaurant New Zealand awards, marking the country’s debut in the internationally recognised dining guide.
The MICHELIN Guide Restaurant Ceremony New Zealand 2026 was held at the New Zealand International Convention Centre in Auckland on June 30.
Fourteen restaurants were awarded one MICHELIN star: TALA, Inati, Ahi, Ortega, The Estate, Rātā, Logan Brown, Jano Bistro, Tussock Hill, Sherwood, Kika, Paris Butter, Mudbrick and Amisfield. Queenstown restaurant Essence received two MICHELIN stars.
A number of restaurants also received Bib Gourmand and MICHELIN Selected Restaurant accolades.
Hospitality New Zealand chief executive Kristy Phillips says the awards are a milestone for the country’s hospitality sector.
“Having the MICHELIN Guide for restaurants in New Zealand puts the spotlight on the quality, creativity and professionalism of our hospitality scene,” Kristy says.
She says the recognition is expected to strengthen New Zealand’s reputation as a food destination and encourage more international visitors to experience the country’s hospitality offering.
The MICHELIN Guide partnership with Tourism New Zealand will run for three years and covers restaurants in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown.
