Cortnie Pineaha - Hospitality Kaitaia

“I’m doing this course because I have a passion for people and for food. I grew up around food on the marae so I learned how to cater for people.”

“My Mum passed away when I was 11, and this pushed me to do better. She was my guardian angel and my female role model.”

When Cortnie finished school she took a year out and started her own business catering for a motel/bar. “The work/family balance got too hard, so it was time to challenge myself and start training.”

“I love my tutor – his charisma, his inspiration, his work skills, and his life skills. He also challenges me on the fine details like presentation that can have a big impact on the dining experience.”

“I want to be like my tutor and work as a chef around the world. My passion would be to be a navy chef. I would get to travel and get to see people who are doing their thing to save the world.”

Firstly though, Cortnie is keen to find work. “I want to get some income so I can continue to train. I want to be the best I can be. You know when you’re doing your best. No-one else knows for you.  My Mum always said - ‘be true to yourself’.”