Dusky Sound becomes unique learning environment for next generation of Kiwi chefs

December 19, 2018

The remote Fiordland location is playing host to one of the country’s most unusual kitchens.

Dusky Sound on the south-western tip of the country is one of New Zealand's most isolated spots, but it's home to one of the country's most unique kitchens and learning environments.

It's a spot dominated by precious wildlife and home to some of our favourite crustaceans.

It's also where Otago Polytechnic students have been given a rare chance not only to cook, but also catch the day's feed.

"It's the modern chef, I think. It's the way we have to look at food, the way we're encouraged to think about food, to understand where it comes from and then put it on the plate later," student Warren Colby told 1 NEWS.

The trip aims to highlight the possibilities for chefs in today's modern world, with renowned New Zealand chef Michael Van de Elzen pulled in to give a few pointers.

"There's a terrible chefs shortage, it's unbelievable," Van de Elzen said.

"There's only 40 students that have qualified in all of New Zealand and I guarantee if you go into Auckland alone, possibly in the CBD, they may need probably 140, but there's only 40 for the country."

Low wages and long hours are just some of the barriers to becoming a chef, with lecturer Chris Smith hoping trips like this will highlight the changing face of the kitchen.

"We just want to highlight the fact there's some really unique opportunities for young students to work in a stunning environment, it’s not all inside throwing plates and yelling at each other," Mr Smith said.

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