Chef De Partie: This is for you!

Are you a passionate career-driven chef de partie looking for a truly unique culinary challenge? The Zealong Tea Room , overlooking our majestic tea estate and recognised as one of the top 150 Tea Houses in the world , is seeking an enthusiastic Chef de Partie to join our team. At the Zealong Tea Room, you’ll have the rare opportunity to craft and refine tea-inspired dishes , contributing to our acclaimed high tea experience. This is an exceptional role for an ambitious chef eager to grow, learn, and be part of a kitchen that blends elegance, innovation, and the beautiful flavours of tea. You’ll be supported by our highly skilled senior chefs, making this an outstanding environment to expand your skill set and develop confidence in both pastry and savoury preparation. This is a permanent position of at least 30 hours per week . Please note: Work visa sponsorship is not available for this role. What We’re Looking For: Someone who is ALREADY in New Zealand, no overseas applications will be considered. At least 18 months full-time work experience in a similar role in a busy kitchen environment (i.e restaurant, or hotel kitchen) A genuine passion for a career in the kitchen , especially for experimenting with new ingredients and flavours A collaborative, positive approach to teamwork Minimum 3-5 years' professional kitchen experience, with at least 1-2 years working as a Chef De Partie or senior line cook Formal culinary training or equivalent demonstrated culinary expertise and skills Strong knowledge of food preparation techniques, cooking methods, and ingredient quality Proficiency in managing a specific kitchen station with autonomy and attention to detail Excellent leadership and communication skills to effectively manage and mentor junior staff Comprehensive understanding of food safety, hygiene protocols, and health and safety regulations Ability to work efficiently under pressure, particularly during peak service times Flexibility with shift patterns, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays as required A passion for hospitality and delivering exceptional culinary experiences to guests Preferred: Experience in fine dining, boutique hospitality venues, or tea-inspired cuisine Your Responsibilities You’ll support the kitchen team across a range of tasks, including: Managing and overseeing your assigned station, ensuring all dishes are prepared to the highest standards of quality, presentation, and taste Preparing and cooking food items according to established recipes, menus, and presentation guidelines Training, supervising and mentoring junior kitchen staff working under your section Maintaining strict hygiene and food safety standards in compliance with health regulations Monitoring stock levels at your station and communicating inventory needs to management Collaborating with the Executive Chef and other station chefs to ensure efficient kitchen operations Contributing creative ideas for menu development and seasonal specials that align with Zealong Tea's culinary vision Ensuring consistency in food quality and portion control across all service periods Maintaining a clean, organised and safe working environment at your station Why Join the Zealong Tea Room? You’ll be part of a supportive, highly skilled team who take pride in their craft and enjoy the energy of creating memorable dining experiences for our guests. We work hard, we value creativity, and we love what we do—while maintaining a positive, friendly kitchen environment.heal If you’re excited to elevate your pastry skills, work with premium tea ingredients, and be part of one of the world’s most respected tea destinations. #J-18808-Ljbffr