Aotearoa New Zealand has officially joined the global Michelin Guide map, marking the guide's first-ever expansion into Oceania.
The Michelin Guide New Zealand 2026 recognised 110 restaurants across Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown, celebrating their quality, creativity and strong sense of place.
After months of anonymous inspections, the guide has awarded one restaurant in Queenstown, Essence, two stars.
Fourteen restaurants have received one star, 35 have been recognised with a Bib Gourmand for offering good food at great value and a further 60 are included in the official Michelin Guide selection.
The sole recipient of two stars is Essence in Queenstown, led by executive chef Paul Froggat. Perched on a hillside above Lake Wakatipu, the understated dining room ensures the focus remains on the cuisine. Two tasting menus showcase premium seasonal New Zealand produce, combining refined technique with creativity and a modern sensibility. Each dish expresses clarity and balance, while the wine list offers a strong selection, particularly for Pinot Noir enthusiasts.
Tala in Auckland became the first Michelin-starred Samoan restaurant in the world. Under the tutelage of executive chef-patron Henry Onesemo and head chef Tommy Hope, it offers a multi-course experience inspired by Samoan cuisine and culture. Traditional flavours are reinterpreted in creative ways, delivering a deeply personal and immersive dining journey.In addition to the restaurant selection, the guide presented Special Awards honouring the exceptional talent, passion and craft behind experiences that stay with guests long after the final course.
The Young Chef Award was given to chef Robert Fairs from Londo, a Bib Gourmand restaurant in Christchurch.
The Service Award went to Stina Persen from Graze, a Michelin-Selected restaurant in Wellington.
The Sommelier Award was bestowed to Matthew Aitchison, general manager land sommelier of The French Café, a Michelin Selected restaurant in Auckland.
