1. The MICHELIN Guide has officially launched in Aotearoa New Zealand in a historic first for the Oceania region, spanning Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown.
  2. New Zealand has debuted with 110 establishments, including 1 Two MICHELIN Stars, 14 One MICHELIN Star, 35 Bib Gourmand and 60 MICHELIN Selected.

Auckland, New Zealand:  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 recognises 110 restaurants across Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown, celebrating their quality, creativity and strong sense of place.

After months of anonymous inspections, the MICHELIN Guide has awarded one restaurant in Queenstown, Essence, Two MICHELIN Stars.  Fourteen restaurants have received One MICHELIN Star across all four regions, 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 MICHELIN Stars is Essence in Queenstown led by Executive Chef Paul Froggatt. Perched on a hillside with sweeping views over Lake Whakatipu, 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.

Executive Chef Paul Froggatt of Essence in Queenstown commented: “For Essence to receive not just one, but two MICHELIN stars is something you dream about. 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. New Zealand’s food story, in our opinion, is one of the most compelling in the world, and we’re incredibly proud to be part of it.”