New Zealand Certificate in Cookery (Level 4)
Become competent and confident cooking complex dishes in fast-paced commercial kitchen environments.
This programme covers the skills required to create a wide range of complex dishes from hot meals and desserts to pastries.
You'll learn about preparation and presentation techniques, food safety, health and safety, operating policies of commercial kitchens and communication practices between colleagues, managers and customers.
To meet Health and Safety requirements, applicants must be physically able to undertake the practical components of the programme in an industry emulated environment.
Fees for 2024
Fees for 2025
10 NCEA Level 1 literacy credits and 10 NCEA Level 1 numeracy credits
OR New Zealand Certificate in Cookery (Level 3) OR equivalent
OR If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency.
Still want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?
- If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.
- Note: The number of courses you have to complete for this qualification may be reduced where you have relevant credits from previous study, or evidence of similar learning or experience in the workplace.
What if English is not my first Language?
If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study.
- Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives English Proficiency Outcomes Chart.
- If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment.
- If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, book an IELTS or other test through the Ara Examination Centre or in your home country.
- IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.
- What if I have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance?
- You do not need to provide additional evidence of English Language skills.
Overall IELTS 5.5 Academic
- 5.0 Listening
- 5.0 Reading
- 5.0 Writing
- 5.0 Speaking
Funding assistance
If you face unexpected financial hardship during your studies, we have several funds that you can apply for. These are designed to enable you to continue your current course of study. We also have a wide range of scholarships and awards that can provide financial assistance.
Find out moreCareer opportunities
This qualification will give you the skills to work as an intermediate-level chef in a professional kitchen.
Study pathways
Graduates with this qualification can progress to the New Zealand Diploma in Cookery (Advanced) (Level 5) with strands in Cookery and Patisserie.
Recommended school subjects
- English
- Maths
- Food technology
New Zealand Certificate in Cookery (Level 4)
Become competent and confident cooking complex dishes in fast-paced commercial kitchen environments.
| Information | |
|---|---|
| Type | Certificate |
| Code | NZ2101 |
| Next Starts | February 2025 |
| May be available for Study Visa? | Yes |
| International application close date | 19 December for January start; 13 January for February start; 23 June for July start |
| Credits | 120 |
| Level | 4 |
| Additional Equipment/Fees | $1000 Approximately for uniforms, knives, and textbook |
| May be eligible for Studylink? | Yes |
| May be eligible for Fees Free? | Yes |
| Reference | NZ2101-MAIN |
Fees for 2024
Fees for 2025
Placements or workplace assignments are an integral part of this programme. You don’t need to supply evidence of your Covid vaccination status to apply for or to study this programme but please be aware that some workplaces may require evidence from you that you are fully vaccinated for Covid before allowing you to complete work at their organisation. The number of organisations at which your placement or workplace assignment can be completed may be impacted, depending on your vaccination status.
With an internationally-recognised Ara qualification, the world is your oyster. Our graduates can be found working and making a difference across the globe…
MoreCredit Recognition
If you have prior relevant experience or previous related study credits, you may be eligible for credit recognition towards this qualification.
Find out moreDocuments
- Admission & Enrolment Form PDF, 426 KB
- International Application Form PDF, 363 KB
Area of Interest
Need some help picking the right course for you?
Send us an enquiry or book a tour and experience Ara for yourself!