A Cordon Bleu cooking school expected to take about 300 students a year opens in Wellington on Monday.
The internationally renowned Le Cordon Bleu franchise said it had invested $13 million in the school, and anticipates most of those attending its courses will be from overseas.
Wellington mayor Celia Wade-Brown says the school is a coup for the capital and will bring significant financial benefits.
She says students will also act as natural advocates for New Zealand produce when they move to top restaurants overseas.
The school was originally proposed for the Wairarapa town of Martinborough more than six years ago.
