Rhys Van de Waardt

Rhys started his career at the acclaimed Skycity Auckland where he cooked for famous musicians, actors and many of the world’s leading politicians. The three-year apprenticeship was a high-profile introduction to the hospitality industry and helped to shape him into a well-rounded, multi-faceted chef.

Rhys went on to open multiple restaurants and has experience in a la carte, functions, buffet,

production and even private dining roles.

He started at NMIT as the Production and Catering Chef on the Cookery and Culinary Arts programmes in 2019.

“I have always been passionate about teaching cookery and this role balances practical teaching and function work. It’s an amazing role and I’m grateful for it every day,” Rhys says.

“I love getting to interact with the future chefs of the industry. Getting to instill a passion early on in someone’s career is an honor.”

Rhys says he has been a mentor to aspiring chefs and food truck businesses throughout his career and keeps his “finger on the pulse” of the hospitality industry through his involvement with the Restaurant Association.

“It’s very important to know what’s on trend in industry so I can set the students up with practical

knowledge of what it’s like working in a restaurant setting.”

He says that teaching students in NMIT’s training restaurant, the Rata Room, is similar to leading a professional kitchen brigade, which suggests that graduates are being well prepared for work in the industry.