Taking place on June 30, the event marks New Zealand’s entrance into what is considered the height of global culinary acclaim and will see outstanding New Zealand restaurants awarded Michelin stars for the first time.
While the MICHELIN Guide has a long history awarding its stars in other parts of the world, New Zealand will – just – beat Australia to garner a presence in the guide.
New Zealand was announced as a new entrant in the guide last November, with Michelin inspectors at the time already assessing New Zealand restaurants.
Australia’s debut in the guide is set for October, with South Australia the only region to be featured. As announced earlier this month, the South Australian Government is supporting the state’s inclusion in the MICHELIN Guide.
In New Zealand, Michelin’s coverage will be broader, with culinary establishments in Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington and Queenstown to be included.
“It is a privilege for NZICC to host the MICHELIN Guide for this New Zealand first,” said NZICC’s general manager Prue Daly.
“To welcome an event of this significance so early in our journey is a powerful endorsement of the role NZICC can play in shaping New Zealand’s next chapter as a global destination for culture, business, hospitality and major events.”
The NZICC opened in February this year, after more than a decade of construction.
NZICC’s director of operations, Ian Love, said for an event of this calibre, “every detail matters” and the venue’s team would executive accordingly for the Michelin ceremony.
“From the arrival experience through to the spaces, service and flow of the evening, our role is to make sure guests feel the care, precision and warmth that define great New Zealand hospitality,” said Love.
“It is a significant moment for the industry, and we’re proud to play our part in making it feel special.”
