Tourism New Zealand reaches for the skies with a star-studded event

AUCKLAND, Today: New Zealand, after years of being overlooked by the Michelin Guide, has decided to take control. They’ve launched the restaurant with the most stars to spotlight their culinary scene.

Tourism New Zealand hosted international tastemakers at an exclusive preview as part of a campaign to showcase the country’s night skies and cuisine. The event was produced with the help of Special PR.

Set beneath Kura Tawhiti, near the Southern Alps, the pop-up Pou-o-Kai restaurant is a bold move by TNZ to boost off-peak tourism. They aim to keep New Zealand thriving year-round.

Media personalities, food critics, and social media influencers, including Masterchef Australia judge Sofia Levin and Ashley Day of the US’ Food and Wine, attended. The event featured a unique menu by New Zealand’s celebrated chef, Ben Bayly.

“We know potential visitors are excited by our dark skies and our cuisine,” says Tourism New Zealand General Manager Marketing, Brodie McLeish. “We’re taking matters into our own hands and showing off our cuisine to the world.”

“The event aligns with our goal to make Aotearoa New Zealand a year-round destination. We needed something spectacular to capture the attention of media and social media advocates.” – Brodie McLeish

Tourism New Zealand research shows that 70% of potential off-peak visitors are drawn by the dark sky experience. Meanwhile, 85% of travellers from key markets are most excited about food.

“The event aligns with our goal to make Aotearoa New Zealand a year-round destination,” McLeish added. “We needed something spectacular to capture the attention of media and social media advocates.”

Kelly Grindle, Managing Director at Special PR, shared, “We might not have the official Michelin Guide, but we’ve got our own stars. We’re thrilled to showcase our culinary culture on the world stage.”

The event’s media and social media coverage will highlight New Zealand’s culinary talent and support the country’s vital hospitality industry alongside its tourism experiences.

Tourism New Zealand collaborated with ChristchurchNZ and Te Ngāi Tūāhuriri to make the event possible, ensuring it reflected the region’s cultural heritage.