Most weekends from January to March, the Ruth Pretty Cooking School shares recipes, cooking ideas and entertaining secrets for 34 participants amid the rural tranquility of Te Horo.

Guest presenters - a range of top chefs and food personalities - complement Ruth Prettys own classes. They show participants how to prepare the dishes on that days menu in a relaxed environment, where stories are told and questions answered.

A long lunch on the verandah, under sun umbrellas, or even at the chefs benches, savouring every dish from the class (with matching wines) finishes off the day. Recipes are provided and participants only need bring their culinary interest and an appetite. Classes start from $195 (incl GST) per person.