New Zealand Certificate in Cookery (Level 4)
Hospo, Food & Tourism
A course by
Whitireia & WelTec
Gain practical skills in food preparation and cookery with the New Zealand Certificate in Cookery (Level 4) and prepare for a career as a chef in a commercial kitchen environment.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Not specified (Whitireia and WelTec campuses), Wellington region
It will take a total of 1 year


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Develop practical cookery skills
Gain hands-on experience in the preparation, cooking, and presentation of a wide variety of dishes using different methods and techniques.

Apply food safety and compliance knowledge
Understand and implement food safety, health and safety, and standard operating procedures within a commercial kitchen context.

Operate effectively in a commercial kitchen
Work as part of a professional team in a commercial kitchen environment, demonstrating effective communication and teamwork skills.
What You're Signing Up For
The New Zealand Certificate in Cookery (Level 4) at Whitireia and WelTec is a one-year, hands-on programme designed for those looking to start or advance their career as a chef. The course covers essential cookery methods, complex dishes, larder and catering operations, food safety, and compliance in commercial kitchens. It is delivered full-time on campus with an alternative Managed Traineeship pathway for those already working in the industry. Graduates will be ready for entry-level positions in various hospitality settings, with opportunities for progression as experience is gained.
Course Content
- Cooking methods and their applications
- Cold larder techniques
- Food safety, Health and safety
- Standard operating policies and procedures for commercial kitchens
- Preparation, cooking and presentation of fish dishes
- Farinaceous and vegetable dishes
- Preparation, cooking and presentation of meat and poultry dishes
- Patisserie techniques to produce and present desserts
- Techniques to produce dough and pastry products
What you need to know first
60 credits at NCEA Level 1 including 10 literacy and 10 numeracy credits, or equivalent (for applicants under 20 years old)
Special admission possible for applicants 20 years or over who do not meet Under 20 criteria
Ability to carry out the physical requirements of the programme

What sort of industry will this job lead to
Hospitality
Food Service
Tourism

Future employment opportunities might be
Trainee / Commis Chef
Demi Chef de Partie
Chef De Partie
Sous Chef
Head chef
Executive Chef


Coming Soon: Nexties Explorer
Our AI-powered Explorer is almost ready. Soon, you’ll be able to build a dynamic profile of your skills, goals, and strengths, and get a curated selection of courses just for you.
More details