Student Story

Have you always been interested in food? (beyond mere survival, that is!)

Yes, growing up my parents’ own cafes, this gave me an early passion for food and for the industry. I love the joy you get out of making great food.

When did you first decide to pursue a pathway in food and hospitality?

Hospitality was one of my favourite subjects in high school. When I was looking to study at the end of high school, I saw that Otago Polytechnic was offering a brand-new culinary arts degree, a design-led, first-of-its-kind programme.

Did you move to Dunedin (and Otago Polytechnic) specifically to study? If so, where did you come from/grow up?

Yes, I grew up in Gore and moved to Dunedin to study – 11 years later I’m still here!

What was it about the Bachelor of Culinary Arts that appealed?

The creative freedom, business aspects and first-of-its-kind, design-led course appealed to me as it was more of a comprehensive course that not only combined food principles but a degree that can be tailored so that I could pursue any career direction.

How did the BCA set you up for your next steps into a career?

I learnt a lot about adapting to consumer-driven trends, which is constantly changing in the industry and how that could then be adapted. The business management/ entrepreneurial aspects of the Bachelor of Culinary Arts (BCA) definitely help me run the business today.

And can you explain some of those career steps?

I was part of the opening of Vogel Street Kitchen, which at the time was such a different kind of eatery opening in Dunedin. I spent a couple of years in the kitchen there and then was given the opportunity to help open and run their sister café, Heritage Coffee. I was manager there for three years before moving on to owning Buster Greens.

What inspired you to take that big step into your own business?

I always wanted to own my own café, so when the opportunity came up it seemed like the right time to take the next step in my career.

Can you explain your philosophies, firstly to food and coffee etc; secondly, to business, including people, be they employees or customers?

I love how food brings people together, whether that’s celebrating a milestone or a casual catch-up with friends. I really love the café industry- it’s casual but always bustling, and a space to offer great creative food, coffee and memorable service.

Are you someone who looks to ‘give back’?

We’ve employed a few BCA students/ grads. They’re great, and full of creative ideas, which when we all come together to brainstorm menu ideas we end up with an even better menu to offer our customers.

Do you have any advice for others who may be considering studying culinary? Why would you recommend Otago Polytechnic?

It’s a great, rewarding industry to be a part of. In the end, you’ll get an innovative degree where you’ve been given the chance to experiment with great support from your lecturers.

Can you explain your philosophies, firstly to food and coffee etc; secondly, to business, including people, be they employees or customers?

I love how food brings people together, whether that’s celebrating a milestone or a casual catch-up with friends. I really love the café industry- it’s casual but always bustling, and a space to offer great creative food, coffee and memorable service.

Are you someone who looks to ‘give back’?

We’ve employed a few BCA students/ grads. They’re great, and full of creative ideas, which when we all come together to brainstorm menu ideas we end up with an even better menu to offer our customers.

Do you have any advice for others who may be considering studying culinary? Why would you recommend Otago Polytechnic?

It’s a great, rewarding industry to be a part of. In the end, you’ll get an innovative degree where you’ve been given the chance to experiment with great support from your lecturers.