Duncan Robati Corrigan loves the environment that surrounds cooking.

“We get to be very creative, we learn new things every day, and there are so many things we can do,” he says

Corrigan has signed up to compete in the Rarotonga Burger Championship on Friday -  organised by the Cook Islands Chefs Association.

“I joined in for a bit of excitement and to do something creative, I’m a little bit nervous,” he says, “with a burger, it’s best to keep it simple and it’s got to have lots of flavour.”

He is currently working at the Slipway Restaurant in Avatiu harbour, has new sauces that will be revealed on the day of the cooking contest.

National president of the Chefs Association Karlene Taokia said she would like to see who can produce the burger with the best flavours, that is presented well, and meets the hygiene requirements.

“We have such a variety of burgers on the island and it will be exciting to see who comes fortward for the challenge, it could be anyone, and everyone is invited to enter.

“The event will be loads of fun, and at the moment our island needs some excitement before we get busy again,” she said.

Today is the last chance for those interested in taking part to enter for a fee of $10, and all competitors must have their recipes submitted by Thursday October 14.

Hygiene and food safety are important throughout the contest and competitors are expected to be dressed appropriately.

There are six specific things judges will be looking for, valued at two points each - they are: taste, appearance, safety measures taken, texture, execution and local products used.

There are six heats with three competitors in each who will all have 25 minutes to prepare, cook and present their burger of their choice.

A work bench for prep, cooking and presentation will be set up, and a barbecue provided for grilling.

Contestants can pre-cut and prepare their ingredients from home, but, pre-cooking of the burger patty is not allowed.

Each entrant must also provide their own equipment to assist with the creation of their burger presentation.

Check out the action at Constitution Park on Friday between 10am and 1pm.