The MICHELIN Guide is set to unveil its first New Zealand cohort at a ceremony in Auckland on Tuesday, 30th June.
Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland is preparing to welcome New Zealand’s hospitality industry to a landmark occasion, with the inaugural MICHELIN Guide Restaurant Ceremony New Zealand 2026 set to be held at the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) on 30 June.
As a proud event partner alongside NZICC, Tātaki Auckland Unlimited is delighted to support the first-ever MICHELIN Guide awards in New Zealand and Oceania, bringing chefs, restaurateurs, industry leaders and media together in Auckland for this significant moment.
Tātaki Auckland Unlimited CE Nick Hill says the event celebrates an industry that plays an important role in Auckland’s identity and visitor appeal.
“Food is one of the most powerful ways we tell Auckland’s story. It reflects who we are as a city, our diversity, our cultures, our connection to exceptional local produce and the creativity of our hospitality sector,” said Hill.
“We are proud to host the inaugural MICHELIN Guide Awards Ceremony and to welcome industry leaders from around New Zealand and the world to Auckland for this important occasion.”
As New Zealand’s largest and most diverse city, Auckland has developed a reputation as the country's culinary capital, with a dining scene shaped by Māori, Pacific, Asian and European influences expressed through everything from neighbourhood favourites to acclaimed restaurants.
Food experiences are increasingly influencing travel decisions, with visitors seeking authentic ways to connect with a destination through its people, places and flavours.
“Food creates a sense of place and gives visitors another reason to spend time exploring Auckland,” Hill said.
“That's why we're continuing to invest in initiatives that celebrate Auckland's unique food culture and help tell the stories behind our dining scene. Iconic Auckland Eats is a great example, celebrating the dishes and dining experiences Aucklanders themselves love while helping share the stories that make our city unique.”
Now in its sixth year, Iconic Auckland Eats highlights the breadth and character of Auckland’s dining scene through dishes nominated by the public, showcasing the restaurants, cafés and food experiences that contribute to the region’s identity.
“Whatever the outcome on Tuesday, we’re proud of the contribution Auckland’s hospitality industry makes to New Zealand’s dining reputation. We look forward to welcoming guests to our city and celebrating the people and businesses that make New Zealand’s dining scene what it is.”
Subscribe to the Restaurant & Café newsletter for weekly industry updates and event coverage.
