The renowned Michelin Guide will publish its first edition in Aotearoa New Zealand in mid-2026, marking its inaugural expansion into Oceania.

The guide’s arrival is being seen as a major development for the country’s dining scene and its position as a global gastronomic destination.

Why New Zealand was chosen

The Michelin Guide’s decision to launch in New Zealand reflects what the organisation calls a “mature gastronomic destination” featuring strong local produce, indigenous cultural influences and a generation of chefs blending modern technique with regional heritage.

The first edition will focus on four key cities: Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown. Inspectors are reported to be dining anonymously across those locations ahead of the launch.

Wat the guide means for the dining scene

The arrival of the Michelin Guide in New Zealand is expected to elevate the country’s international dining reputation, by recognising and promoting high-quality restaurants and hospitality firms beyond the local market.

It is backed by Tourism New Zealand and government officials who say the move offers benefits to chefs, producers and the broader tourism sector.

At the same time, the guide says its methodology remains anchored in five universal criteria—ingredient quality, technique, flavour harmony, personality of cuisine and consistency—applied in each destination.

Timeline and what to expect

The Michelin Guide selection for New Zealand is scheduled for publication in mid-2026.

In the interim, inspectors continue to visit restaurants anonymously, assessing venues under the guide’s global standards.

For diners and hospitality professionals, this means that venues in the four initial cities may gain distinction ahead of the full starred listings, and that the broader hospitality sector may see increased international attention.

The move also underscores a growing trend of “culinary tourism”, where destinations promote their food and dining culture to international travellers.

As New Zealand prepares to host its first Michelin edition, the global food-and-travel community will watch closely how the country’s unique ingredients, local heritage and modern dining craft are captured in the inaugural guide.