The inaugural MICHELIN Guide New Zealand 2026 has recognised 110 restaurants across Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown, marking the Guide’s first expansion into Oceania.
The selection includes one Two MICHELIN Star restaurant, 14 One MICHELIN Star restaurants, 35 Bib Gourmands, and 60 MICHELIN Selected restaurants.
Top honours
Two MICHELIN Stars: Essence (Queenstown).
One MICHELIN Stars (14): Restaurants across Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown, including Ahi, Mudbrick, Paris Butter, Tala, The Estate, Jano Bistro, Logan Brown, Ortega, Inati, Tussock Hill, Amisfield, Kika, Rātā and Sherwood.
Special awards
Young Chef Award: Robert Fairs (Londo, Christchurch).
Service Award: Stina Persen (Graze, Wellington).
Sommelier Award: Matthew Aitchison (The French Café, Auckland).
MICHELIN inspectors highlighted New Zealand’s strong use of seasonal local produce, distinctive regional identities and authentic hospitality, resulting in an unusually high number of Star awards for a first-time destination.
www.michelin.com www.guide.michelin.com/nz/en
