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Travel enthusiasts embarking from Auckland and select North American hubs are in for a remarkable treat. Air New Zealand has appointed the renowned Michelin-starred chef Josh Emett as its new Culinary Ambassador, significantly enhancing the airline’s premium dining experience. Beginning in October 2026, long-haul passengers will have the opportunity to indulge in exquisite in-flight meals crafted by Emett, a chef celebrated for his three Michelin stars earned in London, New York, and Los Angeles while working alongside Gordon Ramsay.
With a stellar culinary background, Josh Emett has established himself as a leading figure in New Zealand’s culinary scene. His esteemed restaurants, including Onslow and Gilt Brasserie in Auckland, and the famed Oyster Inn on Waiheke Island, showcase a commitment to refined cooking that pays tribute to New Zealand’s high-quality produce. As the Culinary Ambassador for Air New Zealand, Emett will create an exclusive selection of signature dishes that will complement the airline’s existing offerings across Premium Economy, Business Premier, and Business Premier Luxe cabins on long-haul flights departing from Auckland and select North American routes.
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From October 2026, premium cabin passengers can look forward to a diverse menu that encapsulates the rich culinary diversity and seasonal abundance of New Zealand. Featured dishes will include seared Fiordland wild venison paired with golden kūmara chutney, kawakawa-spiced beetroot, and toasted pinenuts, a culinary representation of the South Island’s untamed beauty. Other standout options will consist of herb-infused lamb rump served with smoked aubergine and spring peas, as well as Alpine salmon accompanied by saffron-infused sweetcorn and pickled karengo. To conclude the meal, passengers can indulge in whipped vanilla mousse and meringue adorned with kiwifruit compote—an innovative twist on classic Kiwi flavors.
Designing extraordinary cuisine for air travel involves overcoming unique challenges, which Emett has thoughtfully addressed through his innovative menu development. Lower air pressure, decreased humidity, and background noise significantly impact flavor perception, necessitating a careful approach to seasoning and texture. Emett has crafted his dishes with bolder flavors in mind, whether it be the richness of Pinot braised chicken or a zesty miso dressing, ensuring that every aspect resonates with diners at cruising altitude. By incorporating beloved ingredients such as New Zealand lamb and seasonal vegetables, he aims to present meals that feel refined while remaining accessible.
For many international travelers, the in-flight dining experience serves as an introduction to New Zealand’s vibrant food culture. Emett emphasizes the top-tier quality of New Zealand ingredients, asserting that boarding an Air New Zealand flight presents an early opportunity for tourists to discover the nation’s exceptional produce. His philosophy revolves around uncomplicated yet delicious dishes, allowing the high-quality ingredients to shine while narrating a compelling story about their origins. Collaborating with local producers will ensure that the menu remains reflective of New Zealand’s regional diversity, emphasizing seasonal freshness and quality.
Jeremy O’Brien, Air New Zealand’s Chief Customer and Digital Officer, highlighted food as a crucial element of the passenger journey, often influencing travelers’ perceptions of their entire experience. He remarked that offering the best of New Zealand onboard is a point of pride for the airline, and look forward to enhancing customer anticipation surrounding meal times. By collaborating with Emett—an ambassador of New Zealand’s culinary excellence—the airline hopes to provide passengers with a unique Kiwi experience that lingers in their memories long after the flight ends.
The new culinary initiative will unfold for passengers in Air New Zealand’s premium cabins, which include Premium Economy, Business Premier, and Business Premier Luxe. This enhanced dining will be rolled out across the airline’s long-haul network, showcasing Emett’s creations on all flights originating from Auckland and select North American destinations. The airline’s culinary teams will work closely with Emett and regional producers to ensure authentic representation of New Zealand’s culinary heritage.
Air New Zealand has announced that the new menu items will debut in October 2026, with further details to follow in the succeeding months. Passengers in premium cabins can look forward to a rotating array of Emett’s signature dishes alongside the airline’s existing menu choices. This phased introduction aims to ensure that the airline’s culinary staff and cabin crew are fully prepared to deliver the superior dining experience across its extensive long-haul network.
This initiative will undoubtedly transform the premium cabin into a high-altitude showcase of New Zealand’s finest offerings. As global airlines compete to distinguish their premium services, this venture places Air New Zealand at the forefront of delivering genuinely memorable, destination-inspired dining experiences from the moment guests take their seats. For those traveling to or from North America through Auckland later this year, enjoying Emett’s culinary masterpieces will undeniably elevate their journey.
Source: The post Air New Zealand Appoints Michelin-Starred Chef Josh Emett as Culinary Ambassador to Transform Premium Dining first appeared on www.travelandtourworld.com.
