Lodge Chefs - Couples Welcome

Capstone; Christchurch; On-site; NZD 52,000 - 72,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

On-site accommodation (at cost)

Job summary

Capstone seeks Head Chef or Chef De Partie for Wilderness Lodge Arthur's Pass, a remote New Zealand location midway between Christchurch and the West Coast. Roles are full-time fixed-term from September/October 2026 to late April 2027, with on-site accommodation available at a cost and potential movement within the Capstone Group after the season.

Ideal candidates will have busy-kitchen experience, pastry skills (advantageous), and a passion for seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.

Qualifications

• Experience in a busy kitchen for the applied role.
• Pastry experience is advantageous.
• Passion for showcasing seasonal local ingredients in simple, beautiful ways.
• Excellent communication and supervision skills for senior roles.
• Ability to think on your feet and work independently.
• NZ residency or valid working visa for the contract duration.

Skills

Busy kitchen experience

Pastry experience

Seasonal ingredients

Staff supervision

Independent work

Visa/work eligibility NZ

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.

Are you looking for a unique experience in a unique location whilst using your skills and travelling New Zealand? We are currently seeking a passionate Chef for the upcoming season at Award winning Wilderness Lodge Arthurs Pass. We are looking for both a Head Chef & Chef De Partie however an experienced Sous Chef could potentially be considered for the senior role.

These are full-time fixed-term positions, starting in September/October 2026 through to late April 2027 These roles have food and accommodation provided on-site at a cost. There is also an opportunity to move to another hotel within the Capstone Group at the end of the season, continuing your hospitality career.

Midway between Christchurch and the West Coast, Wilderness Lodge Arthur's Pass sits on a 4000-acre farm & nature reserve surrounded by the spectacular Arthur's Pass National Park. Designed to fit carefully into the landscape, the lodge offers spectacular mountain views from every window. There are a range of activities to explore, guided adventures to discover nature and farm life - kayak, hike, search for rare wildlife, watch sheep-dogs in action & learn about growing fine merino wool. Stylish accommodation, delicious food & warm hospitality complete the experience. The Wilderness Lodge is family owned and has been at the forefront of nature protection for over 25 years.

The successful applicant/s will have a true passion for delighting guests and offering a memorable dining experience. This is an ideal role to make your mark in the culinary world, learn in a remote setting, using high quality ingredients.

To be successful you will require:

• Experience in a busy kitchen with appropriate experience for whichever role you are applying for
• Prior pastry experience advantageous
• A passion for showcasing seasonal local ingredients in simple but beautiful ways
• Excellent communication skills and experience supervising staff if applying for senior roles
• Ability to think on your feet and work by yourself
• NZ resident or applicable working Visa valid for the duration of the contract until late April

This is a fantastic opportunity to allow your level of experience and passion for the industry to shine in an exceptional and remote location. Recently named New Zealand's Best Accommodation Provider (Non Hotel/Motel).