Head Chef: Creative Kitchen Leader at Iconic NZ Destination

Tourism Holdings Pty; Waitomo Caves; On-site; NZD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Discover Waitomo seeks a Head Chef to lead our kitchen at the world-renowned Waitomo Glowworm Caves, delivering memorable food experiences for domestic and international visitors. You will manage and mentor a talented team, balance creativity with commercial acumen, and drive profitability through menu development, stock control, and strict food-safety standards in a fast-paced environment.

This hands-on leadership role offers opportunities to shape guest experiences at a globally recognised

Qualifications

• NZQA Level 4 Cookery qualification or 5+ years' professional kitchen experience.
• Experience leading or supervising a kitchen team.
• Strong knowledge of food safety, menu planning, stock & cost control.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day kitchen operations and menus.
• Develop menu offerings and maintain food safety standards.
• Lead the kitchen team and manage stock, costs, and planning.
• Collaborate with Business Manager and F&B Manager.
• Work rotating roster, including weekends and public holidays.

Skills

Leadership

Food safety

Menu planning

Stock management

Cost control

Communication

Organisational skills

Education

NZQA Level 4 Cookery Qualification

Job description

Discover Waitomo seeks a Head Chef to lead our kitchen at the world-renowned Waitomo Glowworm Caves, delivering memorable food experiences for domestic and international visitors. You will manage and mentor a talented team, balance creativity with commercial acumen, and drive profitability through menu development, stock control, and strict food-safety standards in a fast-paced environment.

This hands-on leadership role offers opportunities to shape guest experiences at a globally recognised