Head Chef

Are you a visionary chef ready to take the reins of one of New Zealand's most celebrated dining destinations? We have a legacy brand in the heart of Queenstown, who is searching for a Head Chef who is not only a culinary talent but a natural leader – someone who can create, inspire, and nurture a high-performing, passionate team.

This brand celebrates the spirit of the South Island through food and is known for its commitment to locally sourced, seasonal produce.  All of the dishes tell stories – of place, of people, and of flavour. Whether it's a casual evening out or a once-in-a-lifetime experience for visitors, they deliver food that's bold, genuine, and unforgettable.

With a recent significant investment in the future of the restaurant there is now a completely refreshed, modern dining room and state-of-the-art kitchen. This transformation sets the stage for a new era of creativity, innovation and excellence — with a unique opportunity for the right Head Chef to help lead the way.

You're more than a chef – you're a team builder, a mentor, and a creative force. You thrive in a busy, high-end kitchen and know how to bring calm, control and a sense of fun. You've led teams, built systems, and know what it takes to deliver exceptional food every single time.

You don't need to shout to lead – your team follows you because you empower them, teach them, and bring out their best. You're strategic, solutions-focused, and passionate about building a culture where people can grow and thrive.

• Lead the kitchen operations with confidence, creativity, and calm – from prep to pass.
• Collaborate with the Restaurant Manager and Owner to shape the vision and direction of the restaurant.
• Design, test and launch seasonally inspired menus that reflect the best of Central Otago.
• Mentor and grow a high-functioning kitchen team – model great behaviour, coach, train, and support their career goals.
• Maintain exacting standards for food quality, presentation, hygiene and safety.
• Stay across budgets, food and wage costs, rosters, and inventory – a smart operator who keeps things humming.
• Create a culture of positivity, professionalism, and purpose – we work hard and enjoy it.

What We're Looking For

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous in a high-quality restaurant
• A love for seasonal, local produce and storytelling through food
• Exceptional leadership and communication skills – you're a motivator and mentor
• Strong operational knowledge – confident managing costs, compliance and service standards
• A collaborative mindset – you work with your team and senior leadership to drive success
• A calm, creative, strategic thinker who thrives under pressure

What We Offer

• Creative freedom –the role encourages innovation and gives you space to bring your ideas to life
• Brand new kitchen and dining room – work in a refreshed, modern space purpose-built for high performance and creativity
• Supportive leadership – you'll work alongside experienced and engaged owners and managers
• Career growth – Be part of a respected name in NZ's culinary scene with national and international recognition
• An unbeatable location – Queenstown offers a lifestyle like no other, surrounded by mountains, lakes, and a vibrant hospitality scene

Ready to Take the Lead?

This is your chance to shape not just a menu – but a team, a culture, and a guest experience that people will travel for. If you're ready to bring passion, creativity, and leadership to one of New Zealand's most iconic restaurants, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply now with your CV and a brief cover letter sharing why you're the perfect fit for this exciting new opportunity.

Only those who have been shortlisted will be contacted and you must already have the legal right to work in New Zealand.