125 years after its creation as a guide for discerning travellers, the Michelin Guide will arrive in NZ, beating even Australia to receive the famous fine dining resource.
The inaugural edition will include Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown, with inspectors already dining anonymously at some of the country’s best restaurants in order to discern which spots might be worthy.
The prestigious restaurant rating system is used in many countries around the world, awarding its famous star rating of one, two or three stars for outstanding culinary experiences.
According to the organisation, one Michelin Star is awarded to restaurants for “high-quality cooking that is worth a stop,” two Michelin Stars for “excellent cooking that is worth a detour,” and three Michelin Stars for “exceptional cuisine that is worth a special journey.”
The restaurant selection will be made using Michelin’s historic methodology, where anonymous Michelin Guide Inspectors evaluate five key criteria: The quality of the ingredients, the mastery of cooking techniques, the harmony of flavours, the personality of the cuisine and the consistency both over time and across the menu.
The expansion of the Michelin Guide to Aotearoa New Zealand, its first in Oceania, comes as part of a deal with Tourism New Zealand to bring the respected rating system here.
Restaurants awarded the stars receive significant acclaim and earning even one star can dramatically boost a restaurant’s profile. A two- or three-star rating can elevate a chef’s career internationally and turn the restaurant into a sought-after culinary destination.
Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the Michelin Guide, called New Zealand an ‘exciting gastronomic destination’.
“The country offers a rich and diverse culinary landscape, shaped by its indigenous Māori heritage, Pacific influences, and a new generation of chefs who champion local produce with creativity and passion.”
The arrival is more than a win for our chefs and winemakers, says Louise Upston, New Zealand’s Minister for Tourism and Hospitality. “It’s a triumph for our entire hospitality and tourism sector. It celebrates the incredible dedication and talent of the people who bring our food and beverage experiences to life every day.”
Tourism New Zealand estimates Michelin’s arrival to bring in up to 36,000 more international visitors.
Which restaurants do you think will be in the running?
