The Restaurant Association of New Zealand has welcomed the launch of the country’s first MICHELIN Guide, describing it as a landmark moment for New Zealand hospitality and an opportunity to further cement Aotearoa’s reputation as a world class food destination.
The inaugural Guide recognised restaurants across a range of categories, including MICHELIN Stars, Bib Gourmand and MICHELIN Recommended establishments, showcasing the diversity and quality of New Zealand’s dining scene.
“Tonight saw 110 restaurants recognized by MICHELIN Stars, with 15 receiving the coveted stars. Recognition spanned four regions across New Zealand and showcased the remarkable breadth of talent that exists across our dining scene.
The awarding of Essence Two MICHELIN Stars is a significant milestone for New Zealand hospitality and a powerful statement about the quality, ambition and world-class talent that exists within our industry.
The inaugural Guide also marks the beginning of a long-term journey, one that will continue to challenge, inspire and elevate New Zealand hospitality in the years ahead.”
Restaurant Association General Manager Nicola Waldren said the significance of the Guide extends far beyond the individual accolades announced tonight.
“This is a proud moment for our entire industry. The restaurants recognised this evening represent the creativity, skill and dedication that exists right across New Zealand hospitality.”
“For years, our chefs, restaurateurs, producers and front-of-house teams have been building an extraordinary food story. The arrival of the MICHELIN Guide shines an international spotlight on that achievement and gives food lovers around the world another reason to visit New Zealand.”
The Restaurant Association has been advocating for many years to bring the MICHELIN Guide to New Zealand and more recently through discussions at the Hospitality Summit at Parliament, recognising the opportunity it presented to elevate both the hospitality and tourism sectors.
Research shows culinary travellers are among the world’s highest spending visitors and often plan their itineraries around food experiences.
“This is about much more than one evening of recognition,” said Waldren. The arrival of the MICHELIN Guide isn’t a finish line, it’s the beginning of a new chapter for New Zealand hospitality and an opportunity to continue building our reputation as one of the world’s great food destinations.”
The Association also acknowledged the many people and organisations that have helped shape New Zealand’s food culture over the years.
“Today’s recognition celebrates the exceptional restaurants that have been honoured, but it should also inspire the entire industry. The Guide creates a benchmark and a platform that encourages continued investment in talent, creativity, service and hospitality.”
“Looking ahead, our focus is on helping the industry maximise the opportunities created by the international attention that accompanies the MICHELIN Guide.
“This is the beginning of a new chapter for New Zealand hospitality. Tonight celebrates what New Zealand hospitality has already achieved. The real opportunity is what comes next. We look forward to working alongside industry, tourism partners and government to ensure the benefits are felt right across the sector.”