Nurturing the talents of New Zealand’s emerging stars of the culinary stage has been a paramount priority for NZ Chefs.
With recent accomplishments highlighting local excellence, 2026 is set to be a busy year for young chefs across the country. Preparations are underway for the NZ Chefs Hospitality Championships at MIT this October, with entries already rolling in and a comprehensive program forthcoming.
NZ Chef’s collaboration with Worldchefs continues to strengthen our foundation, highlighted by the success of the Young Chefs Club, Auckland and the upcoming mentor session led by Youth Development Director Geoff Scott.
Members are encouraged to book their places for ‘Info Chef 2026,’ set for 8 June in Christchurch at Te Pae, following the success of last year’s event. Booking is available via the Chefs Shop on the NZ Chefs website.
INFO CHEF 2026 will bring together chefs, culinary students, and industry leaders from across the country. This flagship event has been designed to inspire, connect and showcase the future of hospitality through innovation, sustainability and collaboration.
At recent industry gatherings, standout presentations, notably by Belinda Moore, have sparked renewed enthusiasm for ongoing learning. NZ Chefs have encouraged members to explore the professional opportunities she shared, including upcoming online sessions designed to enhance skills and connections.
NZ Chefs President Shannon Fryer particularly noted the excellence demonstrated by emerging chefs in New Zealand.
The Young Chefs Club – Auckland group from AUT, under the mentorship of Chef Scott, will represent New Zealand at the Worldchefs Congress in Wales. Their participation in the Young Chefs Forum and a subsequent culinary tour of London’s renowned food scenes exemplify the invaluable professional development opportunities available to our future leaders. We extend our gratitude to everyone who supported this outstanding achievement.
The 2026 Secondary and Tertiary Training Hospitality Competition is set to take place in May at the Manakau Institute of Technology. Applications close on the 12th of May.
The M.I.T. Secondary School Competition allows students to showcase their culinary, baking or hospitality skills in a competition arena. Categories range from static presentations to live cookery, and barista categories. The competition will be held on the 26th of May.
All competition categories are judged in accordance with the Guidelines for Culinary Arts and Restaurant Service Competitions available from the New Zealand Chefs Association. Competitors are awarded a certificate of participation, and where appropriate, the certificate will be endorsed accordingly as either Bronze, Silver or Gold.
Craig Lucas, Head of School of Hospitality, Tourism and Service Industries at Manukau Institute of Technology, said that building on a strong legacy, the upcoming May competitions will provide an exciting platform for both secondary and tertiary students to demonstrate their talents across culinary, baking, and hospitality disciplines.
“With categories spanning static displays, live cookery, and barista service, the event continues to celebrate skill, creativity, and industry readiness in a dynamic, competitive environment,” said Lucas.
“As Head of School, I am proud to support an event that not only showcases the capability of our learners but also reinforces the standards and professionalism expected within the industry.”
Another calendar highlight, registrations for the 2026 Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award are now open. The competition, now in its 61st year, has continued to support the next generation of chefs across New Zealand and Australia. Open to apprentice and junior chefs aged 18 to 24 years old as at 31 December 2026, the competition provides a platform for young chefs to test their skills, gain industry experience and connect with peers and mentors across the foodservice sector.
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