New Zealand culinary students engage in community and professional dining events

Culinary students in New Zealand have participated in diverse community and professional dining events. At Avondale College, the ‘Chefs for Compassion’ student group hosted an opulent high tea for Matua Warahi and Whaea Linda. The event was organized to provide support and community connection for the kaumātua following the recent loss of their home in a fire.

In a separate professional development initiative, Whitireia and WelTec cookery students participated in the ‘Kai Meets Shoku’ event as part of Wellington On a Plate. Hosted by Te Rūnanganui o Te Āti Awa at Pipitea Marae, the event featured a collaboration between Māori chef Joe McLeod and Michelin-starred Japanese chef Keiko Kuwakino. Students worked alongside industry professionals to deliver a five-course menu that celebrated the connection between Māori and Japanese culinary traditions.