Michelin Guide New Zealand for Incentive Groups

The short answer

New Zealand's first Michelin Guide, revealed on 30 June 2026, lists 110 restaurants in and around Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown. Essence in Queenstown is the only two-star restaurant. Explera DMC's New Zealand team uses the selection to plan incentive dinners, from private hires to Bib Gourmand tables for larger groups.

The guide is Michelin's first in Oceania, and Tourism New Zealand is its destination partner. Our New Zealand team has the full notes in its Michelin Guide New Zealand guide. This page is the short version.

What Is in the First Selection?

Four cities. Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown, with starred restaurants also on Waiheke Island and in Wānaka.
One two-star restaurant. Essence in Queenstown is the only restaurant with two Michelin Stars.
14 one-star restaurants. Michelin awarded 14 restaurants one star.
35 Bib Gourmand restaurants. This is Michelin's award for good food at moderate prices.
60 Michelin Selected restaurants. They complete the list of 110.

Seared scallops in a yellow sauce being garnished on a white plate

What Does It Mean for Incentive Groups?

A clear story for the night. A starred or listed restaurant gives an incentive dinner a reason clients understand in any market.
Small dining rooms. Many fine-dining restaurants seat few guests, so a large group may need a private hire or split tables.
Early dates. Listed restaurants may be harder to book, so we ask for group dates early, especially in Queenstown.
Bib Gourmand for larger groups. These restaurants can suit a bigger group or a less formal night.

A plate of prawns with tomato and herbs being set down on a wooden table

How Does Explera Plan the Dinner?

Terms in writing. Our New Zealand team confirms private hire, minimum spend, menu and timings with the restaurant.
Transfers both ways. A coach or private transfers take the group to and from dinner.
No contracts claimed. We have no contracts with restaurants in the guide, and every booking depends on the restaurant's own availability and terms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cities does the Michelin Guide New Zealand cover?

Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown. Some listed restaurants are nearby, on Waiheke Island and in Wānaka.

How many restaurants are in the first selection?

110: one with two stars, 14 with one star, 35 Bib Gourmand and 60 Michelin Selected.

When was the selection revealed?

On 30 June 2026, at a ceremony at the New Zealand International Convention Centre in Auckland.

Can a large incentive group dine at a starred restaurant?

Often only through a private hire or split tables. Our New Zealand team checks each restaurant's group terms.

Sources

NZICC to host New Zealand's MICHELIN Guide ceremony, NZICC
New Zealand's first MICHELIN Guide serves up major moment for our food and beverage story, Tourism New Zealand

Where Explera Fits

Our New Zealand team plans regional group programmes at net rates for travel agents, tour operators and MICE planners, and we combine New Zealand with programmes in our other destinations.

Write to b2b@explera.co.nz or message +66 93 656 8090 on WhatsApp. Explera DMC is IATA TIDS-registered (96215733) and an ASTA member (900408341).