New Zealand Diploma in Culinary Practice (Level 5) (Cookery)
Food & Beverage
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
Elevate your culinary skills with this Level 5 diploma, designed for junior chefs and industry professionals who want expertise in contemporary cooking, food design, sustainable practices, and kitchen management.
NZ$9,203
inc GST
Enquire about international pricing
Core skills this course teaches
Innovative dish and menu design
Design and produce innovative dishes and balanced menus suited for professional environments, incorporating cutting-edge culinary trends and global influences.
Culinary event leadership
Plan, lead, and deliver a food event, applying both creative and practical kitchen management skills.
About This Course
This one-year, Level 5 programme supports aspiring and practicing chefs to master culinary craft and leadership. Through project- and portfolio-based learning, students balance theory and practice, learning sustainable and culturally responsive dish design, sensory menu creation, bakery and desserts, and commercial kitchen management. The programme is available on campus or as work-integrated learning, allowing students to tailor the experience to career aspirations or workplace needs. Graduates can progress directly to Year Two of the Bachelor of Culinary Arts.
Course Content
- Deliberate Practice for Kai: cooking skills and reflective practice
- Sweet Kitchen Pūmanawa: bakery and dessert contexts
- Contemporary Haka Kai: sustainable and culturally responsive cuisine
- Sensory Design: sensory-balanced culinary items
- Culinary Leadership and Management: principles and practices of kitchen management
- Implementing Manaakitaka: planning and delivery of a food event using leadership and teamwork
Entry Requirements
New Zealand Certificate in Cookery (Level 4) or equivalent
Relevant culinary work experience may be considered
Build towards these roles
ChefSous ChefKitchen ManagerFood Event Coordinator
Build skills in these industries
HospitalityFood & Beverage
Otago Polytechnic is known for high quality, hands on learning that leads to strong outcomes. With excellent student satisfaction, high graduate employment rates, and a commitment to sustainability, it’s a place where practical skills meet purpose. Their award winning programmes span design, fashion, creative arts, trades, health, and business, giving you real experience and real confidence for whatever comes next.
