Nestle Golden Chef Hat Awards
Last week I was most honoured to have played a small part, working at the Nestlé Golden Chef Hat Awards in both Christchurch and Auckland. This is an annual culinary competition for up and coming chefs, held in NZ and Australia now for over 59 years. Competitors work in heats to gain a place firstly in regional finals, then combined Australasian finals, before the chance to attend the World Chef’s Congress.
Hosted by Nestlé, this competition attracts aspiring chefs under 25yrs of age, who dream of making their mark in the culinary industry. Participants come from diverse backgrounds, some in study, others already working in industry. For entrants, it represents the pinnacle of culinary achievement and innovation. From working on recipe development, then practising, practising, practising….!
With a renewed focus on sustainability, contestants are challenged to create dishes that not only dazzle the taste buds but also reflect a commitment to responsible gastronomy. This year chefs were encouraged to explore the balance between flavor, nutrition, and environmental impact. Judges, composed of industry experts and renowned chefs, scrutinize each dish for its taste, presentation, and adherence to the competition’s theme. They also look at personal presentation, complexity of technique, food safety, efficiency of workflow, dish presentation, all while racing against the clock.
The Nestlé Golden Chef Hat competition is also a platform for networking and learning. Contestants have the opportunity to interact with fellow chefs, industry professionals, and sponsors, while gaining insights and forging valuable connections that can shape their careers. In what is a pretty small industry in New Zealand. It really is a career springboard for many. Previous winners have often gone on to become influential figures in the culinary world, sharing their knowledge and passion with aspiring chefs and food enthusiasts alike.
Shayani Withange Don bet 11 other young chefs to take out the South Island regional final.
The North Island winner was Emily Morgan, who will go on to compete at the Grand Finals in Melbourne later in the year.
