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Testimonials

Daniel Brooker - former SKYCITY Apprentice

"As a youngster, I always had a passion for food. Having dropped out of school at the age of 17 I needed to get serious about my future. After looking around for a few months, I had the opportunity to apply for an Apprenticeship at SKYCITY. I went for it and was successful. Being trained as a SKYCITY Apprentice gave me the privilege of working with some of the most talented and knowledgeable chefs in New Zealand. As an Apprentice I had the opportunity to enter many culinary competitions with the guidance of SKYCITY staff. I did quite well and it became an addiction, I was hooked to the hospitality industry and what is has to offer.

SKYCITY wasn't all work and no play - we had many field trips to food providers, growers and meat suppliers. This gives you a great respect for food. This was also great for team building with your fellow Apprentices as you form friendships for life. After completing a three year Apprenticeship, I was ready to take on the world."

After completing his Apprenticeship with SKYCITY, Daniel went on to work at some of Auckland's finest restaurants before heading overseas. He worked as a Sous Chef at a six star hotel in Oman and his team won the Mena Award for Best International Fine Dining in the Middle East. He is now working in the Republic of Kazakhstan as a Chef de Cuisine in the region's best hotel. As for Daniel's next stop after Kazakhstan - his opportunities are endless.

"Would I be where I am today if it wasn't for SKYCITY? No chance."