Gold Medal Cupcakes Shine at Waikato Culinary Fare
Thursday, 21 Aug 2025
Gold medals and sweet flavours were on the menu for two Toi Ohomai ākonga at New Zealand’s largest student culinary competition.
Eleven Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology ākonga competed against more than 500 students from across the motu at the Waikato Culinary Fare, walking away with a raft of bronze, silver and gold medals.
The Waikato Culinary Fare is held annually at Wintec in Hamilton in partnership with Cater Plus. It features static and live food events and also provides Intermediate and high school students the opportunity to compete in a cupcake competition with the highest scores awarded gold, silver, or bronze medals.
The event has grown to become the largest regional competition of its type in Aotearoa, and continues to grow each year.
Toi Ohomai Culinary Arts tutor David Collier-Baker says he took his Secondary Tertiary Programme (STP) class to the annual event.
“This year’s group really stepped up,” says David. “They’ve worked hard throughout the course, and to see that effort recognised with gold medals is incredibly rewarding for them and for us as tutors.”
Among the standout performers were Shadae Webber, 17, from Taupō-nui-a-Tia College, and Prophecy Smith, 17, from Western Heights High School. The pair wowed judges with their Chocolate Caramel and Raspberry Cheesecake flavoured cupcakes, earning gold medals for their efforts.
Both students say they were shocked to win gold.
“We saw the other cupcakes and didn’t think we had a chance,” says Shadae. “But we put a lot of work into ours, so it feels amazing to be recognised.”
Prophecy agrees. “It was a surprise, but a good one. We’re really grateful for all the support from our tutor, David.”
Shadae says she hopes to return to Toi Ohomai to pursue a Diploma in Culinary Arts, with the ultimate goal of becoming a Māori Michelin-starred chef.
Prophecy, on the other hand, has her sights set on becoming a police officer, but says baking will always be a passionate hobby.
David says the STP course gives students a valuable first taste of the culinary world.
“They get to explore their creativity, learn industry skills, and experience the pressure of a real competition. It’s a great stepping stone, whether they want to pursue hospitality or just build confidence.”
The Waikato Culinary Fare is made possible by the support of event sponsors and the wider hospitality industry. It provides a platform for emerging talent to gain experience, showcase their skills, and celebrate the vibrant future of New Zealand’s culinary scene.