Sous Chef

About the role
We are seeking an experienced Sous Chef to join the culinary team at Hāpuku Lodge and Treehouses in Kaikōura, Canterbury. This is a full-time position (minimum 30 hours/week) starting October 2026 based at our beautiful property, where you will play a crucial role in supporting our Head Chef / Senior Sous Chef delivering exceptional dining experiences to our guests. As Sous Chef, you will be instrumental in maintaining the highest standards of food preparation, kitchen management, and culinary excellence, whilst contributing to the unique hospitality offering that defines our luxury lodge.

Initially a fixed term role until April 2027, but permanent position would be considered for the right applicant.

Your duties will include:

• Lead on-shift operations to ensure exceptional service standards, making operational decisions in the absence of the Head Chef and Senior Sous Chef
• Oversee food preparation, cooking and plating; ensuring excellence & consistency across portion size, food quality and presentation - quality checking all dishes that leave the kitchen
• Design daily specials using seasonal garden produce efficiently to minimise wastage
• Collaborate with Senior Chefs to develop dishes, menu offerings and to create memorable dining experiences
• Train, supervise and mentor kitchen staff through demonstration of best practice, setting clear expectations and giving constructive feedback
• Ensure all special requests and dietary needs are catered for, satisfying our guest expectations
• Manage kitchen supplies & food cost through effective stock control, rotation and portion control
• Maintain rigorous food safety, hygiene, and health & safety standards in compliance with all relevant regulations and internal policies
• Communicate clearly and effectively within the kitchen team and across other departments, building positive, collaborative relationships with our wider Lodge team
• Uphold a clean, organised, and efficient workstation at all times

What we're looking for:

• 5+ years professional kitchen experience, (2+ years as a CDP or Sous Chef, minimum)
• Excellent knowledge & technical skills across a range of cooking techniques
• Proven leadership and people management experience
• Excellent organisation and time-management skills
• Flexibility to work a range of shifts, including weekends and public holidays
• Professional presentation for our open kitchen
• Relevant culinary qualifications or certifications (e.g., NZQ Level 4 in Culinary Arts or equivalent)
• Experience working in upmarket or fine dining establishments
• Knowledge of food costing/budgets and inventory management
• Passion for showcasing local, seasonal, and sustainable ingredients

About us

Hāpuku Lodge and Treehouses is a luxurious hospitality destination located in the breathtaking Kaikōura region of Canterbury, New Zealand. We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional guest experiences through world-class dining, stunning accommodation, and authentic Kiwi hospitality. Our philosophy centres on celebrating local ingredients, supporting our local community, and creating unforgettable moments for our guests. We are committed to sustainable practices, environmental stewardship, and building a workplace culture where our team members feel valued, supported, and inspired to deliver excellence every day.

You'll enjoy:

• Being a key part of a creative and close knit kitchen team
• Contributing to the smooth flow of our kitchen operations
• Working with the freshest farm produce, quality local products and planning seasonal produce requirements with our Garden team.
• Working in a team that values work-life balance; enjoying all the adventures Kaikōura and the region has to offer
• Good pay rates and a supportive work environment
• Staff perks, including discounted food and beverage

Apply now

If you are an experienced Sous Chef ready to take your career to the next level and contribute to an exceptional culinary team in a truly unique setting, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your CV, a cover letter outlining your culinary experience and philosophy, and the contact details of two professional references. Join us at Hāpuku Lodge and Treehouses and be part of a hospitality experience that celebrates excellence, sustainability, and the very best of Kaikōura.