Titirangi apprentice chef Emily Morgan is fine tuning her culinary skills as she prepares to represent the North Island at the 2025 Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award Grand Final in Sydney.
The 19-year-old Aucklander, who studies at AUT, earned her place in the final after winning the North Island regional cook-off earlier this year. It’s the second time Emily has taken out the title, and is now set to showcase her skills on one of the biggest culinary stages in Australasia.
Emily will go head-to-head next week with 11 other finalists from across Australia and New Zealand competing in two high-pressure heats in front of a live industry audience at Fine Food Australia. The event is being held at the International Convention Centre at Sydney’s Darling Harbour, September 8-11.
The overall winner will be crowned the 2025 Nestlé Golden Chef of the Year and awarded a 14-day international culinary experience in Singapore and Thailand, valued at AUD $12,000. The competition also features a suite of awards, with a record $38,000 total prize pool on offer this year.
Incredible Opportunity
Emily says she is looking forward to the challenge. “Right now it’s all about practice, practice, practice. I’m fine-tuning my dishes and preparing myself mentally to step into that kitchen in Sydney. Competing at this level is an incredible opportunity, and I want to make the most of it.”
Nestlé Commercial Advisory Chef and competition judge, Karl Seidel, says “The Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award has always been about supporting young chefs and helping them take the next step in their careers. Emily’s talent, determination and focus make her a strong contender for the grand final.”
The Golden Chef’s Hat Award continues to support the next generation of chefs, building confidence and opening doors for young professionals across Australasia. Marking its 60th anniversary, the Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award is Australia’s longest-running culinary competition for emerging chefs and is celebrating five years in New Zealand. The event provides young chefs with the chance to push their boundaries, gain industry recognition, and access career-making opportunities.