Head Chef

Kauri Bay Auckland Limited - Clevedon, North Island NOT A RESTAURANT - A STAGE FOR EXTRAORDINARY FOOD. At Kauri Bay, one service might be canapes overlooking the Hauraki Gulf. The next could be a shared wedding feast, a multi-course celebration or a working lunch for an executive team. Set on a private 500-acre Clevedon property, Kauri Bay brings together three distinctive venues, exceptional New Zealand produce and an events team known for making complex occasions feel effortless. We are looking for a Head Chef who can give the food a clear point of view and the kitchen the calm, commercial leadership to deliver it - for 10 guests or 250. THE OPPORTUNITY Own the seasonal culinary direction across weddings, corporate events, private celebrations, launches and experiences. Work across canapes, shared platters, set menus, degustations, working lunches and casual bites - not the same service every night. Build relationships with local producers and showcase the best of contemporary New Zealand food. Lead, coach and retain a capable brigade with standards rooted in respect, clarity and craft. Partner closely with events, operations and front of house from first brief to final plate. WHAT YOU WILL OWN Menu development, tastings, recipe standards, presentation and event execution. Food and labour cost performance, rostering, procurement, inventory and supplier relationships. Kitchen recruitment, development, succession and day-to-day culture. Food Control Plan, health and safety, equipment readiness and consistently high standards. Post-event learning and continuous improvement without compromising hospitality or craft. WHAT YOU BRING Proven Head Chef, Executive Sous Chef or senior culinary leadership experience in premium events, catering, hotels, lodges or a comparable operation. Strong menu costing, labour planning, purchasing and event logistics. A recognised cookery qualification or equivalent senior experience, with excellent food safety knowledge. A full driver's licence, reliable transport and the right to work in New Zealand. WHAT KAURI BAY OFFERS $110,000-$125,000 base salary, plus employer KiwiSaver and up to 10% performance bonus. An event-led 45-hour average with no routine split shifts and rosters published four weeks ahead. Staff meals and on-site parking. A professional-development and producer-sourcing budget, with space to take meaningful leave in the quieter season. A beautiful, well-established venue 45 minutes from Auckland CBD and 30 minutes from Auckland Airport. #J-18808-Ljbffr