Chef de Partie

A unique opportunity to cook somewhere truly special! About us e Karaka Lodge is a 10-bedroom boutique luxury lodge set on a stunning 600-hectare working farm on the Waikato west coast, approximately 90 minutes from Auckland, Hamilton and Raglan. We offer our guests an intimate, high-end dining experience with a strong focus on quality, seasonal produce and memorable Kiwi hospitality. Our kitchen caters for up to 20 overnight guests, as well as private dinners, corporate retreats, wellness groups, special occasions, family gatherings and intimate weddings of up to 50 guests. We are looking for a p assionate and skilled Chef de Partie to join our small, friendly kitchen team for the upcoming season. What makes this role different? Work in a beautiful luxury lodge surrounded by stunning rural landscapes Live on-site with accommodation and utilities provided as part of your package (great way to save!) Enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle away from the pressures of a busy city restaurant Work closely with the Head Chef in a small, supportive kitchen team Cook for discerning guests who genuinely appreciate good food Work with quality New Zealand produce and seasonal ingredients Be involved in private events, weddings, retreats and corporate groups Have the opportunity to contribute ideas and creativity to menus Experience a varied role where no two days are quite the same Be part of a team that values hospitality, sustainability and attention to detail Key responsibilities Manage day-to-day prep and service Daily harvesting of fresh herbs, edible flowers, and produce from the lodge greenhouse Assist with stock control, portioning, and minimizing food waste in line with our sustainability ethos Maintain strict food safety, hygiene, and kitchen sanitation standards Support the Head Chef with creative input for seasonal set menus and dietary requests Guest interaction The Role As Chef de Partie, you will play an important role in delivering the high standard of food and service expected at Te Karaka Lodge. Working closely with the Head Chef, you will help ensure every meal is prepared and presented to an exceptional standard. You will: Work collaboratively with the Head Chef to deliver breakfast, lunch and dinner service for in-house guests and private events Assist with menu development, showcasing quality local and New Zealand produce Take responsibility for food preparation, production and presentation to a consistently high standard Ensure all dishes meet the required standards for flavour, quality, portioning and presentation Maintain a clean, organised and professional kitchen at all times Follow food safety, health & safety, CHOMP and Lodge procedures Assist with stock control, ordering and maintaining cost-effective food production Demonstrate strong organisation and problem-solving skills Be confident making decisions and maintaining service standards when the Head Chef is not present Work closely with the wider Lodge team to deliver a seamless guest experience About you Full, valid New Zealand working rights (NZ Citizen, Permanent Resident, or valid Work Visa / Working Holiday Visa valid through March) A driver's license and personal vehicle is required 2+ years of experience in a fine-dining, luxury hospitality or high-quality restaurant environment Experience with conferences, weddings, retreats or other group events Strong communication and teamwork skills Excellent attention to detail and pride in presentation The ability to work independently and take initiative A positive attitude and willingness to contribute across the Lodge If this sound like the right opportunity, please send your CV and a brief introduction outlining your experience and why you would be a great fit for Te Karaka Lodge to: stay@tekarakalodge.co.nz Fixed-term contract: September 2026 – March 2027 Live-in accommodation provided