Head Chef

LEAD A KITCHEN WHERE EVERY SERVICE HAS A DIFFERENT PURPOSE. Kauri Bay is one of Auckland's most distinctive private event destinations: 500 acres above the Hauraki Gulf, three purpose-designed venues and guest experiences ranging from intimate lunches to 250-person celebrations. This is not an a la carte restaurant role. Our kitchen works from planned briefs, tastings and detailed event run sheets to deliver premium weddings, corporate gatherings, launches and private celebrations. The menus change with the occasion, but the standard does not. We are seeking a hands‑on Head Chef who can unite culinary ambition, disciplined event execution and a healthy team culture. YOUR MANDATE Set a clear, seasonal direction for contemporary New Zealand food across every Kauri Bay menu format. Translate client briefs into food that is distinctive, achievable and commercially sound. Lead service across canapes, shared feasts, plated courses, degustations and corporate working lunches. Build a capable brigade with clear expectations, strong preparation and calm communication. Own food cost, labour planning, purchasing, recipe controls, food safety and kitchen systems. Work as one leadership team with events, operations and front of house. THE PERSON WE ARE LOOKING FOR You may come from premium event catering, a luxury hotel, a lodge, a major venue or a high‑performing restaurant with significant functions experience. Whatever your background, you will have led people, owned commercial results and delivered high‑quality food at scale. You will be organised before service, visible during it and thoughtful afterwards. You know that the best event kitchens are creative without being chaotic, exacting without being theatrical and commercially sharp without THE OFFER Employer KiwiSaver contributions in addition to base. Up to 10% performance bonus, measured across guest quality, commercial performance, team development and compliance. Event‑led 45‑hour average, no routine split shifts and four‑week roster visibility. Staff meals, on‑site parking and professional development. Kauri Bay is 45 minutes from Auckland CBD and 30 minutes from Auckland Airport. A full driver's licence, reliable transport and the right to work in New Zealand are essential. Apply through LinkedIn with your CV and examples of menus, events or dishes that demonstrate both your culinary point of view and your ability to deliver at scale. #J-18808-Ljbffr