Introduction

New Zealand is not only famous for its stunning landscapes but also for its delicious and diverse food. For those who dream of becoming chefs, studying cookery in New Zealand is a great choice. The country offers high-quality culinary training where students can learn cooking skills while experiencing different food traditions, including Maori and international cuisine.  

Due to the development of tourism and hospitality industry, cook and chef are among the highest demand jobs in New Zealand. International students and their family members can also stay up to 5 years in New Zealand and even permanently in this country after graduation from a cookery course. 

Why Study Cookery in New Zealand?

  • New Zealand’s cuisine is influenced by multiculturalism. You can learn about exciting Pacific Rim cuisine, which combines flavours and cooking techniques from Asia, Polynesia and Europe. 
  • Your culinary creativity will be inspired and enhanced by New Zealand’s natural beauty and relaxed lifestyle. 
  • After you complete the qualification and become an experienced chef, you can immigrate to New Zealand and enjoy all benefits for New Zealand citizens. 

Programs for International Students

Certificate in Cookery (NZQF Level 4) 

  • This course will provide you with cookery techniques and help you become more confident to work in a commercial kitchen environment. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including food safety, the preparation of complex dishes and effective communication with customers and colleagues. 

Certificate in Baking (Generalist)(NZQF Level 4) 

  • You will know about baking techniques and will be familiar with the work environment after completing this course. 

Diploma of Cookery (Advanced) – Cookery Strand (NZQF Level 5) 

  • With this course, you can learn about advanced cookery skills and gain more work experience at a chef level. Updated trends and techniques will also be taught at this level. 

Diploma in Cookery (Advanced) – Patisserie Strand (NZQF Level 5) 

  • This course will provide you with advanced patisserie skills to become a professional baker or pastry chef. 

Diploma in Culinary Management (NZQF Level 6) 

  • This course will cover management skills in a commercial kitchen setting. 

Top Colleges for Cookery

NZMA 

Manukau Institute of Technology 

Le Cordon Bleu 

Contact SOL Edu on 07 3003 1899 or [email protected] for free consultations on which cookery schools are best for you. 

Entry Requirements for Cookery

  • English requirement: You can enroll in the course with an IELTS score of 5.5 at the time of admission. Additionally, if you do not meet the required score, you can fulfill the English language requirement by studying English at a language school in New Zealand for a certain period. 
  • Academic requirement: The cookery course accepts students who have completed NCEA Level 2 (equivalent to Australia Year 12) or have high school graduation credentials. You can start the course even if you do not have any background in Cookery. 

Tuition Fee for Cookery

Approx NZD 20,000 per year

Career Outcomes

Cook and chef 

Cooks and chefs work in kitchens to prepare food, but their roles differ significantly. Cooks primarily handle basic food preparation and cooking tasks, following recipes and maintaining kitchen cleanliness. On the other hand, chefs have advanced culinary skills and take on leadership roles, developing menus, creating new recipes, overseeing kitchen staff, and managing kitchen operations, including inventory and cost control. While cooks focus on executing dishes, chefs are responsible for the overall culinary direction and food quality. 

Migration Pathway

After having completed a Cookery Course (at least Level 4) in New Zealand, you can stay longer and even migrate to New Zealand. Below are two common visa options for you: 

Skill Migrant Resident Visa: You can get the NZ permanent residency via a Skill Migrant Category Resident visa.  

  • You will require 6 points to be eligible for this visa. You can claim points from NZ professional registration, qualification, or high-income and skilled work experience in NZ.  
  • You must be 55 years old or under when you are invited to apply for this visa. 
  • You must have current employment, or a job offer in NZ with at least 30 hours per week and with the required minimum wage ($29.66 per hour as of 2024) 
  • An overall IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent is also required for this visa. 

 Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV): 

  • AEWV is a work visa option that allows you to study in NZ for up to 5 years. You will need a job offer from an accredited employer who has offered you at least 30 hours a week with an hourly wage of minimum $29.66.  
  • In addition, you need at least 3 years of work experience and at least NZQF Level 4 qualification.  

FAQs

What is the minimum wage for a chef in New Zealand?

The average wage for a chef in New Zealand is NZD 23-25 per hour or $54,600 per year.

What qualifications do I need to become a chef in New Zealand

International students normally aim to study Certificate in Cookery NZQF Level 3 and above to become a chef in New Zealand. This is usually combined with hands-on experience already included in the program. 

Are chefs in demand in New Zealand?

New Zealand’s hospitality industry is growing fast, leading to higher demands for skilled chefs.  The tourism industry and population growth are the key aspects of the increasing need for chefs.

Is it easy to find a chef job in New Zealand?

Finding a chef job in New Zealand is relatively easy due to skill shortages and the growth of the tourism industry. The diversity of culinary preferences also plays an important role in the increasing need for chefs from a diverse cultural background spanning from Asian to European cuisine.