The best foodie spots in New Zealand as inaugural Michelin Guide unveiled

New Zealand has landed firmly on the list of must-visit destinations for foodie travellers with the official launch of the country’s first Michelin Guide.

After months of secret inspections, the inaugural guide features a total of 110 restaurants across Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown, with one venue awarded two Michelin stars.

Essence in Queenstown was awarded Two Michelin Stars – the only restaurant in New Zealand to receive the prestigious two-star rating.

Led by Executive Chef Paul Froggatt, the venue is perched on a hillside with sweeping views over Lake Whakatipu.

Two tasting menus showcase premium seasonal New Zealand produce, combining refined technique with creativity and a modern sensibility.

“For Essence to receive not just one, but two MICHELIN stars is something you dream about,” Paul Froggatt said.

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“This recognition belongs to every single person who has walked through our kitchen doors, from our talented kitchen and front-of-house staff, to our suppliers and our growers,” he added.

He went on to call New Zealand’s food offering “one of the most compelling in the world”.

“We’re incredibly proud to be part of it.”

The guide also recognised 14 one Michelin Star restaurants across all four regions.

Tala, in Auckland, received one star and becomes the first Samoan restaurant in the world to be honoured with the prize. 

Also in Auckland, Ahi, Mudbrick, Paris Butter and The Estate were other venues that received one star.

The one-star restaurants in Wellington were Jano Bistro, Logan Brown and Ortega, with Christchurch offering up Inati, and Tussock Hill.

Finally, Queenstown received further recognition with multiple one-star awards going to Amisfield, Kika, Rātā, and Sherwood.

While Michelin stars receive the headlines, they aren’t the only honours available.

Restaurants can also receive a Bib Gourmand for exceptional food at reasonable prices or be recognised as Selected, meaning they’ve earned a place in the Michelin Guide.

Among the 35 restaurants awarded a Bib Gourmand, 13 are located in Auckland, four in Wellington, 10 in Christchurch, and eight in Queenstown. 

René de Monchy, Chief Executive of Tourism New Zealand, said the recognition is an acknowledgement of the people, the land, and the culture that make dining in New Zealand a “truly unique experience”.

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“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,” she said.

Unlike many restaurant awards, Michelin inspectors never identify themselves.

They pay for their own meals, visit anonymously, often return more than once and judge restaurants without revealing who they are. The idea is simple: chefs should treat every diner exactly the same because any table could be occupied by a Michelin inspector.

Tourism New Zealand invested $6.3 million to bring the Michelin Guide to New Zealand. But paying to host the guide doesn’t guarantee stars.

- Additional reporting by Stuff.