New Zealand Luxury Hotels Honoured in Global Michelin Keys Review
Two luxury Northland hotels, Rosewood Kauri Cliffs and Eagles Nest, have secured prestigious Michelin Keys in the 2026 Michelin Keys Global Review, joining a select group of New Zealand properties recognized for exceptional architecture, design, and service based on post-stay ratings from verified guests.
Northland Properties Recognized on Global Stage
On September 26, 2026, the Northern Advocate reported that Northland’s hospitality sector achieved notable international recognition as Rosewood Kauri Cliffs and Eagles Nest retained and earned Michelin Keys. The Michelin Keys Global Review evaluates hotels globally based on strict standards covering architecture, design, service, character, value, and contribution to the local community.
The latest 2026 selection includes 470 new hotels across 79 destinations worldwide, bringing the total number of Michelin Key hotels globally to 2,832. Across New Zealand, 28 hotels feature in the current selection, reflecting a growing international emphasis on high-end properties that maintain distinct local character and rigorous operational standards.
Leadership Perspectives on Exceptional Hospitality
Eagles Nest general manager Adam Howard described the recognition as an incredibly proud moment for the hotel and its team. According to Howard, the property operates under a philosophy of “luxury that treads lightly,” aiming to provide a genuine, intuitive guest experience with strong privacy and a deep connection to the natural environment of the Bay of Islands.
Similarly, Rosewood Kauri Cliffs operations director Andre Miethig noted that the five-star luxury lodge and championship golf resort, set across a 6,000-acre coastal estate near Matauri Bay, is honored to receive the recognition for the second year. Miethig attributed the achievement to the daily dedication of the entire team in showcasing high standards of New Zealand hospitality.
Broader New Zealand and International Standings
Michelin Guide international director Gwendal Poullennec stated that the 2026 selection celebrates the diversity, vitality, and excellence of a changing hospitality sector. Poullennec noted that travelers increasingly seek a strong sense of place and connection when visiting destinations, giving properties that embrace individuality while raising service standards a unique opportunity to shape the future of tourism.
In addition to Rosewood Kauri Cliffs and Eagles Nest, the New Zealand Michelin Key collection features several other notable properties. These include Wallingford Homestead on the East Coast, Delamore Lodge on Waiheke Island, Rosewood Matakauri in Queenstown, Blanket Bay in Otago, and Huka Lodge in Taupō.
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