Michelin Guide has published its first New Zealand edition, recognising 110 restaurants across Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown.
Queenstown restaurant, Essence, received two Michelin stars, while 14 restaurants across the four regions received one star.
The 14 restaurants are Ahi, Mudbrick, Paris Butter, Tala and The Estate in Auckland; Jano Bistro, Logan Brown and Ortega in Wellington; Inati and Tussock Hill in Christchurch; and Amisfield, Kika, Rātā and Sherwood in Queenstown.
A total of 35 restaurants were recognised with a Bib Gourmand for offering good-value food, and a further 60 are included in the official Michelin Guide Selection, including 28 in Auckland, 15 in Wellington, four in Christchurch and 13 in Queenstown.
A Tourism New Zealand spokesperson said the country’s entry into the Michelin Guide should boost food tourism.
Michelin Guide International Director Gwendal Poullennec said: “It is rare to award such a quantity of stars in a country’s inaugural launch – New Zealand’s performance has been genuinely impressive.
“The destination presents more than a selection of outstanding restaurants: to our Inspectors, it revealed a contemporary culinary map shaped by unique terroir and a food culture in quiet harmony with nature.
“From the four regions, every city across New Zealand presents a different side of the country’s food culture. Yet they all share one central theme: purity. It is seen in high-quality seasonal local produce, fresh ingredients gifted by nature and guided by a culinary philosophy that honours their essence, allowing regional character to shine through.
“It is felt too, in the sincere, down-to-earth hospitality found everywhere, from bustling cities to remote small towns.”
Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive René de Monchy said: “This recognition is an acknowledgement of the people, the land, and the culture that make dining in New Zealand a truly unique experience.
“From the sustainable practices of our businesses harvesting fresh produce, to the deeply rooted Māori culture and manaakitanga that defines how we welcome guests, New Zealand’s food and hospitality scene has something to offer every visitor, no matter the region. We warmly invite the world to dinner.”
