Chefs to Showcase Toi Ohomai at Food Fest

Two top chefs from Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology will be showcasing their skills as they return to this year’s Local Wild Food Festival in Whakatāne. 

The Local Wild Food Festival is one of the Eastern Bay of Plenty’s most iconic events, celebrating abundant food found in our diverse natural environment.
Showcasing food from the land, rivers, lakes and sea, the festival brings together resourceful people passionate about sustainable living, highlighting food foraged, grown, caught or hunted from the local environment. 

Senior Toi Ohomai culinary arts tutors Jonathan Chemis and Craig Searle will once again be demonstrating their culinary prowess, celebrating unique and adventurous cuisine. The duo will return to the Wild Food Smoky Zone for the fourth consecutive year.

Jonathan and Craig, both seasoned professionals with extensive experience in the hospitality industry across the Bay of Plenty, are excited to share their expertise and passion for food with festival-goers. This year, they will be preparing and demonstrating a mouth-watering array of dishes, including goat stew, venison carpaccio, rewena flatbread, truffle vinaigrette, and tandoori octopus salad.

"We love participating in the Local Wild Food Festival because it gives us a chance to connect with the community and showcase Toi Ohomai," says Jonathan. 

"It's a fantastic opportunity to inspire the next generation of chefs and to highlight the diverse and innovative culinary arts courses we offer."

Craig says being part of this festival allows them to demonstrate the skills and techniques they teach students every day. 

“It's rewarding to see the excitement and curiosity from the public as they watch us prepare these unique dishes. We hope to encourage more people to explore the culinary arts and consider a career in this dynamic field."

The Local Wild Food Festival is a highlight on the Whakatāne calendar, drawing food enthusiasts from all over the region. Jonathan and Craig's participation not only underscores their commitment to culinary excellence but also reinforces Toi Ohomai's dedication to fostering strong connections within the community and the hospitality industry.

Don't miss the chance to see Jonathan and Craig in action at the Wild Food Smoky Zone. Their demonstrations promise to be a feast for the senses and an inspiration for aspiring chefs and food lovers alike.

Find out more about the Local Wild Food Festival here.