New Zealand Recognized as a World-Class Culinary Destination: First Oceania Edition of Michelin Guide Aotearoa New Zealand Features 110 Establishments, 15 Awarded Stars!

© Tourism New Zealand

Tourism New Zealand is pleased to announce the release of the first-ever "Michelin Guide Aotearoa New Zealand" on Tuesday, June 30.

The guide features a total of 110 restaurants from four cities across the North and South Islands: Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown. Among these, 15 restaurants have been awarded stars, with an additional 35 receiving Bib Gourmand distinctions.

This announcement marks a significant milestone, symbolizing the international recognition of New Zealand's culinary culture and gastronomy. The selected restaurants have been highly praised not only for the quality and creativity of their cuisine but also for their deep connection to the local terroir and food culture.

Queenstown's "Essence" Earns Two Stars

Following months of anonymous inspections, the sole recipient of two stars is "Essence," led by Executive Chef Paul Froggatt. Situated on a hill overlooking Lake Wakatipu, the serene dining space enhances the culinary experience. Their two tasting menus showcase high-quality New Zealand ingredients, expertly prepared with a fusion of technical skill, creativity, and contemporary sensibility.

"Essence" (Two Stars) ©Essence

"Essence" (Two Stars) ©Essence

Paul Froggatt commented, "Receiving two stars for 'Essence' instead of one has been a dream come true. This honor is a testament to the hard work of the talented chefs and service staff who work alongside me, as well as our suppliers, producers, and every member of our team. We believe New Zealand's food culture is among the most captivating in the world, and we are incredibly proud to be a part of it."

A Total of 14 Restaurants Awarded One Star

Across the four cities, 14 restaurants received one star, 35 were recognized with Bib Gourmand (for establishments offering excellent value), and an additional 60 were listed as Selected Restaurants.

Auckland: Ahi., Mudbrick, Paris Butter, Tala, The Estate

Wellington: Jano Bistro, Logan Brown, Ortega

Christchurch: Inati, Tussock Hill

Queenstown: Amisfield, Kika, Rātā, Sherwood

Comments from Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the Michelin Guide

Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the Michelin Guide, stated:

"It is extremely rare to see so many starred restaurants in a first edition, and I am deeply impressed by the high standards in New Zealand. New Zealand is not only home to excellent restaurants but also offers a new gastronomic destination with a modern culinary appeal nurtured by its unique terroir and a food culture that harmoniously blends with nature. While the four regions each possess distinct culinary traditions, purity is a common thread. This is evident in the high-quality, seasonal local ingredients, the fresh produce that harnesses nature's bounty, and a culinary philosophy that respects their essence. The unique character of each place breathes life into every dish. This purity is also felt in the unpretentious and warm hospitality found throughout New Zealand, from vibrant cities to small towns."

Auckland's "Paris Butter" Awarded One Star

Comments from Executive Chef Nick Honeyman:

"New Zealand has cultivated a rich food culture over many years. The fact that so many restaurants have been recognized in the first-ever "Michelin Guide Aotearoa New Zealand" speaks volumes about how appealing and unique New Zealand's culinary scene is. Visitors to New Zealand can enjoy fresh, high-quality ingredients and exceptional cuisine prepared with them in any region. I have long been convinced that New Zealand is one of the world's leading gastronomic destinations, and the announcement of this Michelin Guide has reaffirmed that belief."

"Paris Butter" (One Star) ©Paris Butter

"Paris Butter" (One Star) ©Paris Butter

New Zealand's Food Culture and Stories

New Zealand cuisine is gaining attention with the arrival of the Michelin Guide. At its core lies not only high-quality local ingredients but also a deep connection to the land, people, and culture.

Tiakitanga (Māori for "guardianship and care for the environment") is not merely a concept in New Zealand but a vital guiding principle for action. A profound respect for and connection to nature shapes how ingredients are cultivated and harvested.

This philosophy is embodied by "Ahi." in Auckland, North Island. "Ahi" means "fire" in Māori and emphasizes seasonal ingredients and traceable produce that honors Māori cultural heritage.

Similarly, the spirit of Manaakitanga (Māori for "hospitality") welcomes visitors with warmth. Heartfelt hospitality transforms New Zealand dining from mere meals into memorable experiences. Guests can not only taste New Zealand but also feel it deeply through rituals, stories, and genuine hospitality. "Tala," a Samoan-New Zealand restaurant in Auckland, offers an immersive and personal dining experience that pays homage to Pacific Island cultures. In Wellington, Stina Persen from "Graze" received the "Michelin Guide Service Award" for her exceptional hospitality.

New Zealand is known for its lush green pastures, fertile soil, pristine coastlines, and clear waters. This abundant natural environment fosters fresh, high-quality ingredients that highlight their natural flavors. These qualities are reflected in the restaurants across the country. Wellington's "Ortega" draws inspiration from global cuisines to bring out the best in fresh seafood, while Queenstown's "Sherwood" actively uses ingredients from its own garden and local farms.

However, it's not just the ingredients that make New Zealand's food culture special; the unique experiences offered are also a major draw. From fine dining in vineyards and foraging in ancient forests to cooking with geothermal heat and tasting with views of majestic mountains, New Zealand's grand, diverse, and pristine natural environment adds a profound sense of wonder to the dining experience itself. "The Guide with Tussock Hill" near Christchurch offers a culinary experience integrated with its winery setting, surrounded by vineyards. "Mudbrick" on Waiheke Island, Auckland, provides dining with stunning views of the Hauraki Gulf.

Comments from René de Monchy, Chief Executive of Tourism New Zealand

"The release of the "Michelin Guide Aotearoa New Zealand" is a recognition of the local people, land, and culture that make the dining experience in New Zealand so unique. From producers and operators who cultivate fresh ingredients with rich flavors sustainably, to the spirit of Māori culture and Manaakitanga that underpins our hospitality, New Zealand's food and hospitality offer experiences that captivate all visitors, regardless of region. We invite you to savor the unique gastronomy of New Zealand.

While this inaugural "Michelin Guide Aotearoa New Zealand" selected restaurants from four regions, visitors to New Zealand can enjoy world-class cuisine wherever they travel within the country. From Hawke's Bay, known for its wine and artisan cuisine, to Marlborough, renowned for its exquisite seafood, diverse gastronomy flourishes nationwide."

Chef Ben Bayly of "Ahi.," a one-star restaurant in Auckland, concluded:

"The Michelin Guide is said to be worth a special journey for. New Zealand eagerly awaits your visit. Make your next culinary adventure in New Zealand."

"Ahi." (One Star) ©Ahi.

"Ahi." (One Star) ©Ahi.

Michelin Guide Special Awards

In addition to restaurant selections, the Michelin Guide presented special awards to honor the exceptional talent, passion, and skill that support memorable dining experiences.

Young Chef Award Winner: Robert Fairbairns, "Londo"

The "Young Chef Award" recognizes a promising chef for their outstanding technical skills, creativity, and leadership in the kitchen. Robert Fairbairns of "Londo," a Bib Gourmand recipient in Christchurch, received this award. His cuisine, reflecting his British roots and experience alongside a deep connection to the land, combines solid technique with a distinct personality.

Service Award Winner: Stina Persen, "Graze"

The "Service Award" is presented to outstanding service staff who create a welcoming and comfortable experience for guests. This year, Stina Persen from "Graze," a Selected Restaurant in Wellington, received the award. A Wellington native, Stina greets guests with warmth, friendliness, and heartfelt hospitality. In Wellington, a capital city that values community connections, her simple, sincere, and generous "Kiwi-style" hospitality offers a special experience to all visitors.

Sommelier Award Winner: Matthew Hirston, "The French Café"

The "Sommelier Award" honors sommeliers with exceptional wine knowledge and service skills. Matthew Hirston, General Manager and Sommelier at the "The French Café," a Selected Restaurant in Auckland, received this award. He has curated an extensive and meticulously structured wine list, with particular praise for its impressive selection of wines by the glass.

"Michelin Guide Aotearoa New Zealand" Starred Restaurants List

Two-Star Restaurants

Restaurant Name

Cuisine

Location

Essence

Contemporary European

Queenstown

One-Star Restaurants

Restaurant Name

Cuisine

Location

Ahi.

New Zealand Cuisine

Auckland

Mudbrick

New Zealand Cuisine

Auckland

Paris Butter

New Zealand Cuisine

Auckland

Tala

Samoan-New Zealand Cuisine

Auckland

The Estate

New Zealand Cuisine

Auckland

Jano Bistro

Modern French

Wellington

Logan Brown

New Zealand Cuisine

Wellington

Ortega

Seafood

Wellington

Inati

Contemporary European

Christchurch

Tussock Hill

New Zealand Cuisine

Christchurch

Amisfield

Innovative Cuisine

Queenstown

Kika

New Zealand Cuisine

Queenstown

Rātā

New Zealand Cuisine

Queenstown

Sherwood

New Zealand Cuisine

Queenstown

*All listed restaurants can be viewed here.

[About Tourism New Zealand] https://www.newzealand.com/jp/

Tourism New Zealand promotes New Zealand (Aotearoa) as a tourist destination. In New Zealand, where natural beauty, warm hospitality, and rich culture harmonize, we offer journeys that fulfill, heal, and help visitors discover a new self. The branding campaign "100% Pure New Zealand," running for over 25 years, symbolizes a unique journey that allows visitors to experience the land's spirit (wairua) and feel a lasting sense of fulfillment and deep connection long after their trip ends.

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