Head Chef

About us

Te Karaka Lodge is a luxury boutique lodge set on a beautiful 600-hectare working beef & sheep station, approximately 90 minutes from Auckland & Hamilton. With just 10 guest suites and a maximum of 20 overnight guests, the kitchen is all about quality over quantity. We create thoughtful, seasonal dining experiences for guests, using exceptional New Zealand produce.

About the role

This is a hands-on leadership role suited to a chef who loves to cook and work in a small team. You will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the kitchen at Te Karaka Lodge. Accommodation is provided as part of your package so no late night commutes.

Key responsibilities

• Create and deliver high-quality menus for lodge guests
• Develop seasonal dishes that showcase excellent New Zealand produce, making as much in-house as possible
• Lead and mentor the small kitchen team and interact with guests
• Maintain consistently high standards of food quality, presentation and portion control
• Manage food costs, ordering and stock control
• Ensure excellent kitchen organisation, cleanliness and food safety
• Work closely with the Lodge Management and Front of House team to deliver a seamless guest experience
• Plan menus and kitchen requirements for private functions, weddings (up to 50 guests) and corporate groups
• Contribute ideas to continually develop the food offering

About you

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or senior chef ready to take the next step
• Strong leadership and communication skills
• Confident working independently and taking ownership of a kitchen
• Excellent attention to detail and high personal standards
• Understanding of food costs, portion control, ordering and kitchen budgets
• Genuine passion for quality seasonal food
• Organised, calm and professional, particularly during busy service periods
• Understanding of the importance of working collaboratively with Front of House
• Excellent food safety and hygiene standards
• Comfortable with a hands-on role and happy to get involved across all aspects of the kitchen and working as a team
• Relevant culinary qualification and current NZ work rights
• Own reliable transport is essential for this position

Contact us at [email protected] if this sound like the right opportunity for you.