An exciting opportunity for students interested in hospitality, food, tourism, or hands-on vocational training

SIT is offering a November 2026 intake of the New Zealand Certificate in Cookery (Level 3) at our Queenstown campus, providing students with the opportunity to train in one of New Zealand's most vibrant hospitality destinations.

Why Queenstown?

Queenstown offers a hospitality environment unlike anywhere else. Students are surrounded by a diverse range of businesses, including cafés, restaurants, hotels, wineries, resorts, catering operations and premium dining establishments. This creates great opportunities for industry exposure, part-time employment and future career development.

We're particularly proud that recent SIT cookery graduates are now working in some of New Zealand's most highly regarded kitchens, including Amisfield and Essence at ROKI Collection, both recognised in the Michelin Guide. Link to Article: Renz & Davin: Two SIT graduates, three Michelin stars, one shared dream

For students considering a career as a chef, there are few places in New Zealand that offer the same concentration of hospitality businesses and potential industry connections. This programme is part of the SIT Zero Fees scheme for eligible domestic students.

Programme Details

New Zealand Certificate in Cookery (Level 3)

Queenstown Campus
Starts: 2 November 2026
Duration: 20 weeks full-time
NZQF Level 3

 The programme provides practical, hands-on training in:

• Food preparation and cookery techniques
• Kitchen operations
• Food safety and workplace health and safety
• Professional kitchen practices
• Communication and teamwork skills required in the hospitality industry

Students can use this qualification as a pathway into employment or continue into higher-level cookery studies.

Entry Requirements

Students generally need:

• NCEA Level 1 literacy and numeracy (or equivalent), or
• Evidence they have the ability to succeed in the programme
• A genuine interest in hospitality and cookery
• Willingness to meet the professional standards expected by the industry

 Ideal Students

This programme may be particularly suitable for students who:

• Enjoy practical, hands-on learning
• Have an interest in food, cooking or hospitality
• Are looking for a qualification that can lead quickly to employment
• Thrive in workplace-focused learning environments

Further programme information is available here: NZ Certificate in Cookery (Level 3) – Queenstown

 If you have students who may be interested, please feel free to share this opportunity with them and their families. We would also be happy to answer any questions or discuss whether the programme may be a good fit for particular students.

Bintang Priesa Marketing School Liaison
+64 39482915
Invercargill Campus
Private Bag 90114, Invercargill 9840