New Zealand Diploma in Cookery, Level 5

This programme focuses on ingredients and the understanding of advanced cookery techniques and building an in depth knowledge of how products are transformed by cooking processes. Human Resources & Kitchen Management also form an important part of skill development.

PROSPECTUS

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INTRODUCTION

This programme focuses on ingredients and the understanding of advanced cookery techniques and building an in depth knowledge of how products are transformed by cooking processes. Human Resources and Kitchen Management also form an important part of skill development.

Course Content

Module 1

Garde Manger

The Garde Manger (Larder) module focuses on the specialities of the cold kitchen including innovative vegetable and vegetarian fare, eggs, dairy, seafood, breads and specialist techniques for food preservation such as curing, smoking, dehydration, fermentation and sous vide.

Module 2

Kitchen Operations Management

Learn how to prepare a business plan for a start up. In this module we focus on setting up a business, and the procedure and compliance requirements of the Food Control Plan.

Module 3

People & Culture

Learn about the legal and operational considerations which underpin Employment law in New Zealand: rosters, training, recruitment, performance management and professional development. This includes practical experience planning and delivering onsite events as well as practical classes where you learn to create rosters & job descriptions to recruit professional staff.

Module 4

A la Carte Cookery

Learn advanced cookery techniques in a range of meat, charcuterie (pates, galantines, terrines, sausages) poultry and seafood dishes culminating in two practical cookery assessments. Here students will demonstrate their techniques, cookery skills & presentation while maintaining good organisation and time management skills.

Module 5

Contemporary Restaurant Menu Development

This module integrates culinary knowledge and theoretical understanding through the process of developing, designing and costing the à la Carte menu for a bistro. Part two of the assessment requires the selection of three dishes by the student to be chosen to prepare for two guests seated in the NZSFW dining room.

Module 6

Regional Cuisine & Culture

Research and discover more about international cuisine that excites your curiosity. You will present your findings on their culinary traditions, culture, innovation, and influences on culture as well as preparing and cooking a selection of dishes.

WORK PLACEMENT

NZSFW will place students to complete 150 hours of practical work experience during the programme, at leading restaurants and hotels around Auckland.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Graduates will be able to work in all fields of culinary arts within the hospitality and tourism sector. This may be for cafes, restaurants, resorts, lodges, cruise liners, luxury yachts as well as setting up your own business.

AUT PATHWAY STUDY OPTION

Graduates of this course can apply for AUT's Bachelor of Arts (Culinary Arts) programme, and cross credit a total of 120 points.

PATHWAYS TO FURTHER STUDY

Certificate in Professional Wine Knowledge (Level 5)

Short-term Graduate Work Visa

International students studying this programme may apply for the Short-term Graduate Work Visa after completing their studies. Applications open after 16 November 2026 and students must apply within 3 months of their student visa expiring. For more information including the detailed eligibility criteria, please view the Immigration New Zealand website here.

The programme is approved by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority under section 439 of the Education Act 2020, and New Zealand School of Food and Wine Limited is accredited to provide it under section 441 of the Act.

Page Updated: 09 Nov 2026

Our success stories

SAM LINSTORM

Sam Linstorm has just completed the NZ Diploma in Cookery, Level 5. He was placed 2nd in the Emerging Chef Competition and won the Bocuse d'Or Commis Chef competition.

HAN SEN

Former NZSFW Diploma in Cookery Student Han Sen talks about his two year long culinary journey at NZSFW and future goals.

NIKESH SIVAN

Nikesh comes from Fiji and his previous career was as a graphic designer but it was always his dream to become a chef.

Do I need previous cookery experience to enrol?

Yes. Applicants must have successfully completed the New Zealand Certificate in Cookery, Level 4, or an equivalent qualification. If you have relevant industry experience, you may be eligible to apply through the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) pathway.
What will I learn during the New Zealand Diploma in Cookery, Level 5?

You will develop advanced culinary techniques and knowledge, alongside kitchen management and leadership skills. The programme covers Garde Manger, à la carte cookery, kitchen operations management, people and culture, menu development, food costing, and regional cuisine and culture.
Is there a work placement during the course?

Yes. The programme includes 150 hours of practical work experience at leading restaurants and hotels around Auckland. This provides an opportunity to apply your skills in a professional kitchen, gain industry experience and build valuable hospitality connections.
What qualification will I receive?

On successful completion, you will gain the New Zealand Diploma in Cookery, Level 5.
What career opportunities are available after graduation?

Graduates may pursue culinary roles across the hospitality and tourism industry, including restaurants, cafés, resorts, lodges, cruise liners and luxury yachts. The programme also develops skills relevant to kitchen leadership, management and starting your own food business.
Can I continue studying after completing New Zealand Diploma in Cookery, Level 5?

Yes. Graduates may progress to the Certificate in Professional Wine Knowledge, Level 5, or explore further study opportunities in culinary arts, hospitality and management.
Is this course eligible for a graduate work visa?

International students who successfully complete the New Zealand Diploma in Cookery, Level 5 may be eligible to apply for the Short-Term Graduate Work Visa, subject to Immigration New Zealand’s eligibility criteria. Visa eligibility and requirements are determined by Immigration New Zealand, please find out more here.