Duty Manager

Hapuku Lodge and Treehouses; Kaikōura; On-site; NZD 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Discounted food and beverages

Job summary

Hāpuku Lodge and Treehouses in Kaikōura, Canterbury, seeks an experienced Duty Manager for a full-time role (minimum 30 hours per week) based at our luxury lodge. You will coordinate daily tasks, oversee guest-facing areas, and uphold exceptional service standards.

The position runs Sept 2026 to Apr 2027, with potential for permanent placement for the right candidate; strong leadership, hospitality background and excellent communication are essential.

Qualifications

• Supervisory/management experience indicated (minimum 1 year).
• Hospitality background with guest-focused service ethos.
• Strong communication and staff coaching ability.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate daily tasks to meet guest needs and lodge standards.
• Oversee restaurant, bar, lounge and reception operations.
• Anticipate guest needs and handle complaints professionally.
• Lead shifts, briefings and handovers with professionalism.
• Monitor service flow and adjust staffing to maximise productivity.
• Uphold safety, hygiene and site security procedures.
• Provide coaching and feedback to guest-facing staff.

Skills

Leadership

Team coaching

Communication

Guest service

Decision making

Job description

Jora New Zealand will close on 9th September 2026. Thank you for being with us, we are cheering you on as you continue your career journey.

Hapuku Lodge and Treehouses – Kaikoura, South Island

We are seeking an experienced Duty Manager to join our team at Hāpuku Lodge and Treehouses in Kaikōura, Canterbury. This is afull-time position(minimum 30 hours /week) based at our unique hospitality venue, where you will manage the daily operational flow across all departments - with an F&B focus - ensuring guest experiences are seamless, consistent and memorable. Acting as the on-shift manager, you will be instrumental in maintaining the highest standards of guest service, effectively managing resources and delivering warm, genuine and personalised service, contributing to the unique hospitality offering that defines our luxury lodge.

This role is for September 2026 to April 2027, however for the right candidate may develop into a permanent role.

Your duties will include:

To take responsibility for coordinating daily tasks to meet both guest needs and Lodge standards, working cohesively with Head of Departments and the wider Lodge team

To oversee the smooth operation of all guest-facing areas (restaurant, bar, lounge and reception)

To anticipate guest needs proactively, successfully handling complaints calmly, professionally and efficiently

To act as Duty Manager under NZ licensing requirements to ensure compliance with Sale & Supply of Alcohol Act 2012

Lead shifts, daily team briefings, shift handovers and assign tasks to team with professionalism, confidence and efficiency

Support team members during service and assist across operational areas as needed

Monitor service flow, adjusting priorities and staffing to manage guest needs and maximise productivity

Ensure systems, policies and procedures are followed consistently, maintaining accurate records

Provide coaching, training and constructive feedback to guest-facing staff, demonstrating proper techniques and standards

Uphold cleanliness, organisation and presentation standards across guest facing areas

Promote lodge offerings, local experiences and regional knowledge confidently, identifying opportunities for growth

Monitor stock levels and promptly communicating shortages

Ensure daily cash & site security procedures are followed

Lead emergency response on shift (acting Fire Warden), ensuring the safety of guests and staff

Following Health & Safety guidelines & policies

Ensure all equipment and work environments are well maintained, safe & operational

Report any lost property, incidents, hazards or maintenance in a timely & accurate manner

Uphold morale of the team and foster a positive, respectful and collaborative team culture

What we're looking for

Supervisory/management experience (minimum 1 year)

A minimum of 3 years' hospitality experience, ideally in a fine dining restaurant or luxury hotel

Strong communication skills with the ability to motivate and coach team members to foster a positive and supportive work environment

High emotional intelligence and decision making skills

Excellent organisation and time management skills

Professional presentation standards

Passion for showcasing our local region and delivering memorable guest experiences

Ability to work efficiently under pressure whilst maintaining high standards during busy periods

Flexibility to work a range of shifts, including weekends and public holidays

Being a key part of a successful hospitality team with room for growth

Managing the smooth flow of guest operations and creating memorable experiences

Working with the best suppliers and activity providers in a must see destination

Working in a team that values work-life balance; enjoying all the adventures Kaikoura and the region has to offer

Good pay rates and a supportive work environment

Staff perks, including discounted food and beverage

About us

Hāpuku Lodge and Treehouses is a luxurious hospitality destination located in the breathtaking Kaikōura region of Canterbury, New Zealand. We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional guest experiences through world-class dining, stunning accommodation, and authentic Kiwi hospitality. Our philosophy centres on celebrating local, protecting our environment and creating unforgettable moments for our guests. We are committed to sustainable practices, environmental stewardship, and building a workplace culture where our team members feel valued, supported, and inspired to deliver excellence every day.