Exclusive Gala Dinner  

2025 marked the 130th Anniversary of Le Cordon Bleu, 130 years since the first demonstration was held in the heart of Paris for subscribers of Marthe Distel’s La Cuisinière Cordon Bleu magazine. This milestone represents over a century of prestige, dedication, and culinary innovation, a legacy we were thrilled to honour alongside our alumni, global campuses, and industry partners. On the 14^th of November, our celebrations came to a crescendo with our Exclusive Gala Dinner.

Bachelor Team Leader George Jarjoura managing service (left) Bachelor student finalising table setup (right).

It was truly a night to remember, featuring a stunning five-course menu crafted by our team of Le Cordon Bleu Master Chefs, designed to demonstrate the essence of French culinary artistry combined with New Zealand’s world leading ingredients. Prepared by our Diplôme de Cuisine and Pâtisserie students and served to our distinguished guests by our Bachelor of Culinary Arts and Business students. Live music from the acclaimed duo Sonia & Nigel elevated the evening, featuring a multicultural French flare that perfectly complimented our speciality menu.

Madame Laurence Beau addressing guests (left) Sonia & Nigel performing original French music (right).

The event brought together many cultural and hospitality leaders, including the honourable Madame Laurence Beau, the French Ambassador to New Zealand the Cook Islands and Samoa. 2025 is also notable for being the 80^th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between France and New Zealand, a pivotal moment that led to the creation of Le Cordon Bleu New Zealand.

Bachelor student serving Akarua Rimapere Sauvignon Blanc (left) paired with Waiheke Island Oyster (right).

We extend a heartfelt thank you to our Platinum Sponsor, InterContinental Wellington, for their significant role in fundraising efforts. Our Gold Sponsors, Cloudy Bay, Zany Zeus, Le Bouillon Bel Air, Resotech Fine Foods, Videeko Vanilla, and Akarua Wines. We also acknowledge our Blue Sponsors, including Ora King Salmon, Lumina Lamb, Ata Rangi Winery, Fonterra NZ, Grazie Restaurant, One80 Restaurant, and Palliser Estate. Our sponsors are key suppliers for our campus and crucial supporters of our students as they enter the workplace. Beyond being our key partners, these sponsors also graciously raised funds for Mary Potter Hospice, a Wellington charity that provides free specialist palliative care services to the region.

The many students and staff that served and cooked for the evening.

Together, we celebrated not only a historic milestone but also the spirit of giving and community. Here’s to another 130 years of Le Cordon Bleu!