Lou and her husband Anthony have a wonderful cooking school. They present their meal with great charm and humour. Groups are no greater than 12 people, so it is easy to interact. The chefs promote the ideals of local, sustainable produce, sourced from local farmers. Great regional wines are served with each course. Good idea to stay overnight in town... More

Lou and her partner Ant really do cook up a storm in this tranquil French-accented seaside village. Lou offers many helpful kitchen tips while demonstrating her expertise. Ant's a genius with the smoke box, especially using delicious Akoroa salmon. This is arguably the best place in town to gain insight into making the most of the finest local produce -... More

On Saturday I did a day cooking class at the Akaroa Cooking School. It was called 'Thailand in a day'. While it was cold and rainy outside we were transported to warm tropical lands with hot steaming food, exotic smells and yummy matching wines. A fantastic way to spend a cold Autumn day. More

I went to the Akaroa Cooking School in February and I have to say it was one of the best things I've ever done. Lou is a fantastic chef and brings an atmosphere to the class of fun, learning and interaction. The food you learn to cook is delicious, with a beautiful combination of flavours, but also easy enough that... More

We spent a day at the Akaroa Cook School to celebrate our wedding anniversary (husband scored major brownie points for this present!). We learned new cooking skills, saw new cooking techniques and met people...finished off with an amazing spread of food matched with the most delicious wine. Hammered our budget because we couldn't resist picking up some of the delightful... More

We celebrated my parents 50th wedding anniversary with the whole family competing for the best dish. Loads of fun. And the dinner afterwards was just sensational. The best seafood, and so so fresh. More

Note to self; if attending one of the gourmet extravaganzas that masquerade as 1-day lessons at the Akaroa Cooking School, make sure you will be staying the night rather than driving back to Christchurch ! Not only are you on the receiving end of a rich litany of cooking tips, professional (and not so professional!) techniques and behind-the-kitchen-door humour but... More