The New Zealand Certificate in Cookery (Level 4) is designed for students who aspire to become professional chefs. The programme develops advanced culinary techniques, food preparation skills, kitchen operations knowledge, and professional workplace practices required in the hospitality industry.

Key reasons to choose this programme include:

• Industry-recognised NZQA Level 4 qualification.
• Learn advanced commercial cookery techniques in professional training kitchens.
• Gain practical experience through extensive hands-on learning.
• Develop creativity in menu preparation and food presentation.
• Learn food safety, hygiene, and commercial kitchen operations.
• Prepare for employment in restaurants, cafés, hotels, catering companies, and event venues.
• Pathway to the New Zealand Diploma in Cookery (Advanced) (Level 5).
• Learn from experienced chefs with strong industry backgrounds.
• Study in Auckland, New Zealand's largest hospitality employment market.
• Strong emphasis on employability and industry-ready skills.

Programme Structure

Students complete eight courses (120 credits) that develop practical cookery skills and commercial kitchen knowledge.

Core courses include:

1. Boiling, Poaching and Steaming (15 Credits)

• Wet cooking methods
• Commercial kitchen preparation
• Safe food handling

2. Frying (15 Credits)

• Short-order cooking
• Deep frying
• Pan frying
• Temperature control

3. Baking, Roasting and Grilling (15 Credits)

• Dry heat cooking methods
• Meat and poultry preparation
• Oven management

4. Cold Food Service (15 Credits)

• Salads
• Cold platters
• Appetisers
• Food presentation

5. Farinaceous and Dairy (15 Credits)

• Pasta
• Rice
• Grains
• Dairy-based dishes
• Advanced preparation techniques

6. Meat Cookery (15 Credits)

• Meat preparation
• Portioning
• Cooking techniques
• Quality control

7. Seafood and Poultry Cookery (15 Credits)

• Seafood preparation
• Poultry fabrication
• Professional cooking methods

8. Desserts and Complex Dish Preparation (15 Credits)

• Dessert production
• Plated desserts
• Advanced food presentation
• Menu integration

Subjects / Skills Covered

Students develop skills in:

• Commercial food preparation
• Professional cooking techniques
• Kitchen operations
• Menu preparation
• Food presentation
• Baking fundamentals
• Roasting and grilling
• Frying techniques
• Cold kitchen production
• Meat preparation
• Poultry cookery
• Seafood cookery
• Dessert production
• Food safety and hygiene
• Commercial kitchen teamwork
• Time management
• Professional kitchen communication

Disciplines / Specialisations Offered

The qualification focuses on professional cookery, including:

• Commercial Cookery
• Culinary Arts
• Restaurant Kitchen Operations
• Food Preparation
• Professional Chef Training
• Commercial Food Production

Programme Highlights

• NZQA Level 4 qualification
• 120 credits
• One-year full-time programme
• Purpose-built commercial training kitchens
• Practical, hands-on learning
• Experienced chef lecturers
• Strong industry relevance
• Pathway to Level 5 Diploma in Cookery (Advanced)
• Industry-focused curriculum
• Develop professional chef skills
• Study in Auckland's thriving hospitality sector
• Internationally recognised qualification

Career Outcomes

Graduates may pursue roles such as:

• Commis Chef
• Junior Chef
• Line Cook
• Restaurant Cook
• Café Cook
• Hotel Kitchen Cook
• Catering Assistant
• Banquet Cook
• Institutional Cook
• Food Production Cook

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

• The programme is delivered on campus only; online study is not available for international students.
• Students receive extensive practical training in commercial kitchen facilities.
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is available for eligible applicants.
• Programme fees are indicative and may change annually.
• The Compulsory Student Services Fee (CSSF) is charged in addition to tuition fees.

Visa Requirements

International students enrolling in this programme generally require a New Zealand Fee Paying Student Visa.

Applicants typically need:

• An Offer of Place from MIT.
• Proof of payment (or arrangement) of tuition fees.
• Evidence of sufficient funds to cover living expenses.
• A valid passport.
• Evidence of English language proficiency.
• Medical examination and chest X-ray (if required).
• Police clearance certificate (where applicable).
• Approved medical and travel insurance.
• Compliance with all requirements set by Immigration New Zealand.