Kerikeri trio cook up a win

The team consisted of Chelsea Johnston (left), Daniel Alzate Echeverri, Tracy Todd and chef tutor Mat Fulton. Photo / Supplied

A trio of trainee chefs from Kerikeri has scooped the top prize in one of the country's top hospitality contests.

The Culinary Institute of New Zealand students won the City and Guilds New Zealand Team Skills competition in Auckland on Sunday, after going head-to-head with trainee chefs and service staff from six other training establishments and hotels around the country.

Each team had to cook and serve six plates of a three-course meal to the judging panel and guests.

Chelsea Johnston (left) and Tracy Todd work on their entree.

The Kerikeri crew - chefs Chelsea Johnston and Tracy Todd, and Daniel Alzate Echeverri at front of house - scored the highest points overall in kitchen work, tasting and service.

Head judge Mark Wylie said the institute team stood out for their innovation and professionalism.

"Their dishes were innovative and contemporary and were to such an impressive standard that they could have been served in a top restaurant," he said.

The institute's head tutor, Jon Sefton, said it was great to see his team recognised for their hard work.

"We've been training since March ... tweaking and refining and we pulled a lot of late nights. The team have been hugely enthusiastic and dedicated."

The team's prize package is worth more than $7000.

Each member took home $1000, cookware and culinary products.

The institute, which is in Waipapa Road, also received a swag of prizes.