Culinary students help at TRENZ event
When tourism professionals from around the globe gathered recently in Auckland, AUT culinary students were there helping them to have a great experience.
In May, about 1200 delegates attended TRENZ at the New Zealand International Convention Centre, the country’s largest international tourism business event.
The trade show culminated in a farewell event and party at the Viaduct Events Centre at which 17 AUT culinary students volunteered.
“Students were immersed in the realities of professional event service, including food and beverage operations, team briefings, guest interaction, and working within a fast-paced event environment alongside chefs, hospitality professionals, live performers, and event coordinators,” Senior Lecturer John Kelleher says.
“They also had the opportunity to engage with VIP guests and collaborate directly with businesses featured in Auckland’s Iconic Eats Top 100 list.
“Experiences such as this are invaluable in helping students build confidence, professionalism, communication skills, and industry connections, while showcasing the next generation of hospitality talent from AUT.”
AUT student Hannah Hancox volunteered with the restaurant Pici at the event, working alongside the owner, head chef and staff as she assisted in separating and cooking the pasta, as well as creating the sauce and serving it to customers.
Hancox says it was a great introduction to the culinary scene in Auckland, and she made industry connections that might further herself and her career.
“Seeing the chefs in this kind of environment was fun as well, as you can tell that due to their experience, they completely lacked any kind of stress and were able to enjoy the evening while also serving high quality pasta.”
TRENZ is organised by Tourism Industry Aotearoa (TIA). It brings together New Zealand tourism operators with international travel and tourism buyers, and media. The event works to grow New Zealand’s tourism economy.
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