Emerging Chef of the Year 2026

Draft as of 10 April 2026. Competition will be confirmed by 30 April 2026


Class 2603: NZ Emerging Chef of the Year

Monday 4 October 2026
2 hours | 120 minutes

3 Heats:
Heat 1: 8.30 am - 10.30 am
Heat 2: 11 am - 1 pm
Heat 3: 1 pm - 3 pm

Please note competitors must be under 25 years of age on 1st July 2026. This is a live cooking event that may consist of three heats. The competitor with the highest score across all heats will be awarded the title of NZ Emerging Chef of the Year 2026.

Competitors are required to prepare and cook a TWO Course menu for two (2) covers served within 120 minutes under Worldchefs competition guidelines. The menu should be suitable for serving in an upmarket restaurant.

This is an opportunity for students to present their signature dish featuring NZ ingredients.

1st Course – to be presented between 80 and 90 minutes into the competition

Competitors are to produce Two identical, individually plated portions of a main course which must feature fresh Akaroa Salmon and be complemented by at least two (2) vegetables and appropriate starch with sauce/garnish.

2nd Course - to be presented between at 110 and 120 minutes into the competition

Competitors are to produce Two identical, individually plated portions of a dessert suitable for an upmarket restaurant. 

Any or all Dairy used must be from the Anchor Food Professionals range, competitors are to bring in all other ingredients required.

Plated Dessert Regulations

The desserts must show different elements of skills involved in the pastry kitchen, be seasonal, and suitable for an upmarket restaurant.

It is recommended that the dessert contain at least 3 main components

• One of these components should be served chilled
• One should be frozen
• One of the components should be served warm or hot

Sponsors Product

Each contestant will be supplied with 1x skin on, bone out, fillet of Akaroa Salmon, approx 600gms

Sponsors Information

Akaroa Salmon connect here

Heats

Competitors will be allocated to heats.

Application form available (limited to 4 applications per training establishment)

Please apply by 10 July 2026

Confirmed competitors will be advised by end of July 2026.

Medal/Award Ceremony approximately 4:30pm