What happens when you take nine HETA Academy students, three of Waiheke’s top restaurants, three talented chefs and a whole lot of enthusiasm?
The Great HETA Hospitality Challenge!
In term 3, our Hospitality, Events, Travel and Adventure Tourism students swapped the classroom for the professional kitchens of Stonyridge, Te Motu and 372 for a very special restaurant collaboration.
The challenge was simple: design, prepare and serve a dish that could stand up in a real restaurant kitchen.
But this wasn’t just about cooking.
Our students had the opportunity to experience what hospitality is really like — the pace, pressure, teamwork, presentation and attention to detail that goes into creating an exceptional dining experience.
At Stonyridge, students worked alongside Chef Tshepo, while Chef Rowan welcomed them into the kitchen at Te Motu and Chef Bronwen shared her expertise at 372. Each chef brought their own style and approach, giving students a glimpse into three very different professional kitchens.
And while the kitchen action was happening, our students were also getting a taste of Front of House. A huge thank you to Chrissy, Rory and Helen for taking the time to show students what happens on the other side of the pass — from customer service and communication to creating the atmosphere that makes a restaurant experience memorable.
The competition culminated in a restaurant challenge where students put their new skills to the test. There was plenty of concentration, plenty of teamwork and, inevitably, a few moments of “Is that supposed to look like that?”!
Our foodie judge, Anthony McNamara from Luxe Waiheke, had the difficult job of tasting the students’ creations and providing feedback.
For the students, the biggest win wasn’t necessarily what ended up on the plate. It was seeing themselves as capable young hospitality professionals — working with industry people, taking direction, solving problems and producing something they could be proud of.
A huge ngā mihi to our incredible restaurant partners and everyone who gave their time, knowledge and expertise to make the experience possible.
These are the kinds of experiences that show our students where their learning can take them — and on Waiheke, the pathway from HETA student to hospitality professional can start right here.
Who knows? We may have just met the next generation of Waiheke chefs, hosts, event managers and tourism professionals. 👩🍳🌿🍽️
#HETA #WaihekeHighSchool #Hospitality #FutureReady #IndustryLearning #Waiheke
