Maitred/ Duty manager

Omata Estate Vineyard; Russell; On-site; NZD 52,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Omata Estate Vineyard is seeking a seasoned Maître d'/Duty Manager to lead our front-of-house team. The role focuses on delivering memorable dining experiences, welcoming guests, and coordinating reservations in a boutique vineyard setting.

You will manage day-to-day operations, uphold service standards, and collaborate with the Kitchen Manager to ensure seamless guest experiences. Weekend work and a NZ working rights requirement are essential for this seasonal/billing period role.

Qualifications

• Has previous experience as a Maître d', Duty Manager or in a senior front-of-house role.
• Holds a current New Zealand Duty Manager's Certificate, or is eligible to obtain one.
• Passionate about hospitality and exceptional customer service.
• Genuine ability to connect with guests and make them feel welcome.

Responsibilities

• Welcoming guests and creating memorable dining experiences.
• Leading, motivating and supporting the front-of-house team.
• Managing the day-to-day operation of the restaurant.
• Coordinating phone and online bookings using our reservation software.
• Managing guest enquiries and ensuring excellent communication.
• Cash handling and daily cash-up procedures.
• Ordering bar supplies and rotating stock.
• Working with the Kitchen Manager to ensure front and back of house work as one team.
• Maintaining high standards of service, presentation and cleanliness.
• Keeping a calm and positive approach when things get busy.

Skills

Front-of-house leadership

Guest service excellence

Communication

Team motivation

Education

Duty Manager's Certificate (NZ)

Tools

Reservation software

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.

Key responsibilities

• Welcoming guests and creating memorable dining experiences
• Leading, motivating and supporting the front-of-house team
• Managing the day-to-day operation of the restaurant
• Coordinating phone and online bookings using our reservation software
• Managing guest enquiries and ensuring excellent communication
• Cash handling and daily cash-up procedures
• Ordering bar supplies and rotating stock
• Working closely with the Kitchen Manager to ensure the front and back of house work together as one team
• Maintaining high standards of service, presentation and cleanliness
• Keeping a calm and positive approach when things get busy

About you

• Has previous experience as a Maître d', Duty Manager or in a senior front-of-house role
• Holds a current New Zealand Duty Manager's Certificate, or is eligible to obtain one
• Is passionate about hospitality and exceptional customer service
• Has a genuine ability to connect with guests and make them feel welcome
• Is organised, reliable and proactive
• Leads by example
• Can create a fun, hardworking and positive team environment
• Remains calm and solutions-focused under pressure
• Has a can-do attitude and enjoys taking on new challenges
• Must be available to work every weekend throughout the season and the busy Christmas and New Year period
• Must have the legal right to work in New Zealand — New Zealand citizen, resident, or holder of a valid work visa, including a Working Holiday Visa

About us

Omata Estate is a boutique vineyard and relaxed-style eatery, set in a beautiful vineyard location overlooking the Bay of Islands. We serve gourmet platters, wood-fired pizza and desserts, creating memorable dining experiences in a relaxed yet professional environment. Omata is open five days a week, Thursday to Monday, 11am–6pm, with occasional evenings for private functions. We typically close during the winter months, with this position running from early September through to the end of May. There may also be an opportunity for a year-round permanent role for the right candidate.