Chef/Cook

Cook / Chef – The Groper Garage, Kaikōura

Location: Kaikōura, New Zealand
Employment Type: Full-time
Hours: Minimum 30 guaranteed hours per week
Pay Rate: $28–$32 per hour, depending on skills and experience

Join Our Team at The Groper Garage!

The Groper Garage in Kaikōura is looking for a skilled, motivated and reliable Cook / Chef to join our kitchen team.

Our opening times vary seasonally, with the business opening from 3:00 pm during winter and 12:00 pm during summer. We are seeking someone flexible who can work within our seasonal operating schedule and help deliver consistently high-quality food and service.

The successful applicant will contribute to daily kitchen operations, food preparation and service, maintaining high standards of food quality, presentation, safety and hygiene.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare, cook and present meals according to menu specifications and established quality standards.
• Organise food preparation and coordinate cooking during busy service periods.
• Prepare ingredients, sauces and dishes to ensure efficient kitchen operations.
• Maintain consistency in taste, portion sizes, food quality and presentation.
• Assist with menu planning, recipe development and daily specials as required.
• Monitor stock levels, assist with ordering and maintain appropriate stock rotation.
• Minimise food waste and ensure ingredients are stored correctly.
• Maintain high standards of food safety, hygiene and kitchen cleanliness.
• Follow workplace health and safety procedures.
• Work collaboratively with other kitchen team members to ensure smooth service.

Skills and Experience

The ideal applicant will have:

• Relevant commercial kitchen experience as a Cook or Chef.
• A culinary qualification or equivalent practical experience.
• Knowledge of food preparation, cooking techniques and food safety requirements.
• The ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Good time management, organisation and communication skills.
• The ability to work effectively under pressure during busy service periods.
• A reliable, positive attitude and commitment to maintaining high food standards.
• Flexibility to work within seasonal operating hours.

What We Offer

• Competitive pay of $27–$32 per hour, depending on skills and experience.
• A minimum of 30 guaranteed hours per week.
• Full-time employment in Kaikōura.
• A supportive kitchen team and a hands-on role in daily kitchen operations.

Work Eligibility

As part of the application process, applicants are asked to indicate their current work eligibility in New Zealand by advising whether they are:

• A New Zealand citizen.
• A New Zealand resident.
• The holder of another visa that permits work in New Zealand.

This information will help us understand applicants' current work eligibility as part of our recruitment process.

Pay: $27.00 – $32.00 per hour

Expected hours: No less than 30.0 per week

Work Location: In person