20/08/2026
Aotearoa New Zealand just celebrated a huge milestone with the release of our very first MICHELIN Guide, with 15 restaurants across the country awarded stars and 110 featured in total. 🍽️
While none of those official stars landed right here in Whitianga (yet), our little coastal town is still a foodie paradise. We might not have a MICHEIN badge, but we do have the freshest local seafood, amazing local eateries, and stunning views with every bite.
If you're looking for a top-tier experience, check out these local legends:
🍤 Marina Bay Eatery: Perfectly situated by the water, offering premium seafood and beautifully crafted dishes like their fresh local Ika Mata.
🍜 Blue Ginger: Our go-to for fresh South-East Asian flavours in a relaxed setting. Their dumplings and wontons are hand-wrapped daily with love.
🍕 Luke’s Kitchen (Kuaotunu): A quintessential coastal experience known for its traditional wood-fired pizzas and laid-back "rad vibes" right by the beach.
🥩 The Church Bistro (Hahei): Set in a stunning historic church, this family-run restaurant serves unique plates infused with Brazilian flavours and international flair.
🥗 KaiZen at Go Vino (Cooks Beach): A destination restaurant known for its philosophy of "change for the better" and a seasonal menu designed for enjoying the moment. Popular highlights include their Goats Cheese Brûlée, Tuna Tartare, and innovative shared plates.
New Zealand’s culinary story is stronger than ever, and we’re proud to be a part of it. Whether you're a local or visiting for the first time, come and see why New Zealand’s food scene is truly something special!
Starred restaurants, Bib Gourmand and all the Restaurants of The MICHELIN Guide New Zealand. MICHELIN inspector reviews and insights