If you’ve ever needed an excuse to hop across the ditch and visit our Kiwi cousins, we’ve just found the tastiest one yet!
New Zealand has officially become the first country in Oceania to receive the world-renowned MICHELIN Guide, and foodies everywhere are buzzing with excitement. That’s right—those coveted Michelin stars, long the domain of Europe and Asia’s finest restaurants, have finally landed in our backyard.
So, if you’re looking for a new adventure (and a few unforgettable meals), it might be time to dust off your passport and book a flight to Aotearoa.
A Culinary Milestone for the Land of the Long White Cloud
New Zealand’s landscapes have always been magical, and its culture is rich with history and warmth. But now, there’s a new reason to visit: the food scene has just been catapulted onto the world stage.
The inaugural MICHELIN Guide for New Zealand has awarded a total of fifteen stars to restaurants across Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown. This is a huge milestone for the Kiwi hospitality industry and a clear sign that New Zealand is now a must-visit destination for anyone who loves great food.
While no restaurant has yet achieved the elusive three-star status (reserved for ‘exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey’), one standout establishment has earned two stars, and fourteen others have received one star each.
On top of that, 35 restaurants have been recognised with a Bib Gourmand for offering top-notch food at great value, and another 60 eateries have been reviewed and recommended.
Meet the Star of the Show: Essence in Queenstown
The only restaurant to receive two Michelin stars is Essence, perched on a hillside above Lake Wakatipu in Queenstown’s ROKI Collection hotel. Essence offers two tasting menus that showcase the very best of New Zealand’s seasonal produce, all elevated by European techniques and a dash of creative flair.
Paul Froggatt, the Director of Culinary at ROKI Collection Queenstown, is the mastermind behind Essence’s success. For Froggatt, this recognition is the realisation of a lifelong dream.
‘To be the only restaurant in New Zealand to have this, two stars at the inaugural NZ MICHELIN awards, blows my mind,’ he shared. ‘Together, we have created something that celebrates New Zealand’s incredible produce, its people and its unique sense of place.’
Essence’s signature dish, ‘Autumn Walk’, is described as an ‘edible landscape’, with delicate leaves made from Jerusalem artichoke, celeriac, and pumpkin—evoking a stroll through a New Zealand forest. Other highlights include the Fiordland langoustine tart and the Venison ‘sando’, both of which showcase the country’s premium ingredients and Froggatt’s refined touch.
The 10-course tasting menu, priced at NZD$450, is a true culinary journey through New Zealand, lasting around three hours and featuring everything from king crab to Central Otago vegetables. The menu changes with the seasons, so every visit promises something new and exciting.
A New Era for Dining Down Under
For years, Australia has relied on the Good Food Guide as its culinary benchmark, but the arrival of the MICHELIN Guide in New Zealand is a game-changer for the region. And there’s more good news: Australia will soon get its own taste of Michelin magic, with the guide set to launch exclusively in South Australia in October 2026, thanks to a state-backed partnership. It’s an exciting time for food lovers on both sides of the Tasman!
What Makes a Michelin Star So Special?
If you’re wondering what all the fuss is about, here’s a quick refresher on what those stars mean:
- One Star: High-quality cooking, worth a stop.
- Two Stars: Excellent cooking, worth a detour.
- Three Stars: Exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey. (The rarest and most coveted accolade.)
- Bib Gourmand: Good quality, good value cooking—perfect for those who want a memorable meal without breaking the bank.
The MICHELIN Guide is famous for its rigorous standards and anonymous inspectors, so earning a star (or two!) is no small feat. It’s a sign that a restaurant is truly world-class.
Why Now Is the Perfect Time to Visit New Zealand
With the MICHELIN Guide’s arrival, New Zealand’s food scene is set to attract even more international attention. The country’s unique blend of indigenous Māori heritage, Pacific influences, and a new generation of chefs championing local produce has created a culinary landscape unlike any other.
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just love a good meal, there’s never been a better time to explore New Zealand’s restaurants. From fine dining in Queenstown to hidden gems in Wellington and Auckland, there’s something for every palate and budget.
Planning Your Trip: Tips for Aussie Travellers
- Book Early: With all the buzz, top restaurants are likely to fill up fast—especially Essence in Queenstown!
- Try Something New: Don’t just stick to the big names. The Bib Gourmand list is full of fantastic, affordable options.
- Explore Beyond the Plate: Pair your culinary adventures with New Zealand’s stunning scenery, vibrant cities, and welcoming locals.
- Keep an Eye on Australia: With the MICHELIN Guide coming to South Australia soon, you won’t have to travel far for a world-class meal in the near future.
Key Takeaways
- New Zealand has become the first country in Oceania to receive a MICHELIN Guide, with 15 stars awarded across restaurants in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown.
- Essence, located at the ROKI Collection Queenstown hotel, was the only restaurant to receive two stars, with 14 others gaining one star and 35 being awarded a Bib Gourmand for great value dining.
- The MICHELIN Guide is set to launch in Australia for the first time in October 2026, starting exclusively in South Australia through a state-backed partnership.
- The MICHELIN Guide’s arrival cements New Zealand’s reputation as a world-class culinary destination, celebrating local produce and the talent of Kiwi chefs, and is expected to attract food lovers from around the world.
Have you dined at any of New Zealand’s newly starred restaurants? Are you planning a foodie trip across the ditch? Or do you think Australia’s food scene is ready for its own Michelin moment? Share your thoughts, tips, and favourite Kiwi food memories in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!
Bon appétit, and happy travels!
