The MICHELIN Guide taps Special PR New Zealand as it expands into Aotearoa for the first time
Michelin is pleased to announce the arrival of The MICHELIN Guide in Aotearoa New Zealand, marking its first ever expansion into Oceania. Delivered in partnership with Tourism New Zealand, the inaugural edition will cover four vibrant culinary destinations: Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown.
Set to be unveiled in the middle of 2026, the restaurant selection is already under way, as MICHELIN Guide Inspectors are currently on the ground, dining anonymously to identify the very best restaurants that showcase the unique character of Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown culinary scenes.
Special PR has been appointed by The MICHELIN Guide to represent its extension into New Zealand – tasked with delivering domestic and global media relations services.
The agency’s appointment follows on from the award-winning Pou-o-Kai campaign delivered by Special PR for Tourism New Zealand in 2024.
Pou-o-Kai was billed as the “restaurant with the most stars”. Nestled under the starry skies of Castle Hill in Canterbury, it was a showcase of New Zealand’s food and drink to 50 global culinary influencers.
Brodie McLeish, GM of Marketing at Tourism New Zealand, said: “Pou-o-Kai wasn’t just a restaurant – it was an invitation to MICHELIN, and it is awesome that they heard us and have confirmed our incredible New Zealand hospitality is worthy of inclusion. We believe today’s announcement will drive a significant uplift in tourism visitation, and stronger investment in our hospitality and restaurant sectors.”
Kelly Grindle, Managing Director of Special PR, commented: “The “restaurant with the most stars” drove exceptional attention for our cuisine in 2024. We’re beyond proud to be part of the announcement today, which feels like a full circle moment for us.”
Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guide added: “The decision to enter New Zealand was based on the culinary potential and maturity of the destination, assessed through years of inspector visits.”
“We are thrilled to bring the MICHELIN Guide to Aotearoa New Zealand for the very first time. 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.”
“By highlighting the exceptional restaurants of Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown, we hope to share with the world the unique flavours and talent that make New Zealand such an exciting gastronomic destination.”
To learn more about the MICHELIN Guide history, methodology or selection organisation, please visit guide.michelin.com
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