On campus
Intakes: 22 September | 27 October
Transform into a world-class culinary professional
Serious about becoming a world-class chef? Our Diploma in Advanced Cookery is the perfect recipe for success. Learn the latest culinary skills from Olympic chefs and secure an internship in a Michelin-star or award-winning restaurant – either in New Zealand or Spain! This revolutionary programme will set you apart and can launch your career not just here, but anywhere in the world.
This comprehensive chef training diploma represents the pinnacle of culinary education, combining advanced technical skills with real-world experience in some of the world's most prestigious kitchens. Graduate with both New Zealand Certificate in Cookery (Level 4) and New Zealand Diploma in Cookery (Advanced) (Level 5) qualifications.
Who can enrol?
If you are 18 years or older and aspiring to become a senior chef, this is the ideal qualification for advanced cookery courses. You'll need an IELTS score of 5.5, with no band lower than 5.0. This programme is designed for serious culinary students committed to achieving excellence in professional kitchens worldwide.
What makes this course effective?
Olympic-level instruction:
Learn directly from Olympic chefs who bring world-class expertise and international culinary competition experience to your chef training.
Michelin-starred internships:
Secure placements in Michelin-starred or award-winning restaurants in New Zealand or Spain, providing unparalleled exposure to elite culinary operations.
High-end training facilities:
Train in state-of-the-art commercial and science kitchens equipped with the latest culinary technology and professional equipment used in top restaurants globally.
Dual qualification pathway:
Complete both Level 4 and Level 5 qualifications in a structured two-year programme, providing comprehensive culinary education and advanced specialisation options.
What does this cookery course cover?
This intensive Level 5 chef training programme develops mastery across four critical areas of advanced culinary practice:
Advanced pastry and larder techniques
Contemporary patisserie methods including chocolate work and sugar artistry
Modern preservation and charcuterie techniques for commercial production
Advanced bread-making including sourdough cultures and artisanal methods
Cold preparation and garde manger skills for fine dining establishments
Advanced protein cookery and presentation
Sophisticated cooking methods for meat, poultry and fish including sous vide mastery
Advanced butchery and fabrication techniques for commercial efficiency
International cuisine techniques and authentic flavour profiles
Contemporary plating and presentation for fine dining service
Event and commercial kitchen management
Menu development and costing for diverse dining concepts and events
Large-scale production planning and execution for functions and catering
Kitchen workflow optimisation and efficiency management
Advanced food safety and HACCP implementation in commercial operations
Professional kitchen leadership
Staff management, training and development in high-pressure environments
Operating procedures and compliance requirements for commercial kitchens
Quality control systems and consistency management
Customer service excellence and complaint resolution in fine dining contexts
Comprehensive internship programme
Year 1: 80 hours of internship in commercial kitchens or bakeries
Year 2: 150 hours of internship in top restaurants, including potential Michelin-starred placements
What qualifications will you gain?
Year 1: 120 Credits | New Zealand Certificate in Cookery (Level 4)
Year 2: 120 Credits | New Zealand Diploma in Cookery (Advanced) (Level 5) with strands in Cookery and Patisserie
This dual qualification structure provides comprehensive culinary credentials that are recognised internationally, opening doors to senior chef positions and culinary leadership roles worldwide.
Industry information
Advanced cookery courses graduates enter an elite tier of the culinary profession, with opportunities spanning fine dining establishments, luxury hotels, cruise ships, and celebrity chef restaurants. The global recognition of New Zealand's culinary education ensures graduates are welcomed in top kitchens worldwide.
Elite career opportunities
Senior chefs with Level 5 qualifications typically earn $85,000-$120,000+ annually in New Zealand, with head chef and executive chef positions commanding $100,000-$150,000+. International opportunities offer even higher earning potential, particularly in markets like Australia, Europe, and the United States where New Zealand-trained chefs are highly regarded.
Global culinary recognition
This qualification opens doors to prestigious positions in Michelin-starred restaurants, luxury resort properties, and celebrity chef establishments. Many graduates progress to open their own restaurants, become executive chefs at major hotels, or pursue careers as culinary consultants and food television personalities.
What makes someone excel in advanced cookery?
Elite chefs combine exceptional technical skills with creative vision, leadership capabilities, and business acumen. They demonstrate the ability to innovate while maintaining consistency, manage complex kitchen operations, and inspire teams to deliver extraordinary dining experiences. Continuous learning and adaptation to evolving culinary trends are essential for sustained success at this level.
