Lodge Chef / Hollyford Valley Walk - Queenstown
Season: Mid-October 2025 - April/May 2026
Type: Fixed-term | Rostered
Haere Mai - Calling Professional Chefs and Multi-taskers for the Ultimate Hosting Adventure!
Are you a skilled commercial chef ready for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity? Join us deep in the heart of Fiordland National Park, where your culinary talent will shine in our newly renovated private luxury lodges: Ka Tuku Lodge (nestled among native forest) and Waitai Lodge (perched by the coast at Martins Bay).
Imagine waking up in the heart of Te Rua O Te Moko / Fiordland National Park, surrounded by towering peaks, ancient rainforest, and pristine waters. Picture yourself taking a breathtaking helicopter flight through Piopiotahi (Milford Sound), a jet boat ride, or a hike along the ancient pounamu trails of the Hollyford Track at the beginning or end of your work rotation.
If you're passionate about manaakitanga (hospitality), love the outdoors, and have high standards, this could be your dream job!
What You'll Do- Prepare and present high-quality meals for up to 24 guests and staff - breakfast, lunch, and a plated three-course dinner
- Showcase local ingredients like venison, blue cod, and seasonal produce
- Cater to dietary needs with creativity and care
- Manage kitchen operations including planning, ordering, and stock control
- Maintain a clean, efficient, and well-organised kitchen
- Support lodge hosting, housekeeping, and guest interaction as part of a small, close-knit team
- Proven commercial cheffing experience (essential)
- High standards of food presentation and hygiene
- Strong time management and adaptability
- A passion for hospitality and delivering exceptional manaakitanga
- Physically fit and ready for a remote lifestyle
- Bonus: Duty Managers Certificate or beverage service experience
- A unique opportunity to live and work in one of Aotearoa's most stunning wilderness areas
- A supportive, whanau-focused team environment
- Competitive pay
- On-off roster - perfect for adventurers or those with alternative accommodation
- Subsidised transport to/from the valley (vehicle required)
Even Better Together!
If you have a "plus one" (partner or friend) with hospitality, housekeeping, or lodge hosting experience, you could be the dream team we're looking for! Be sure to check-out our companion role: Lodge Hosts - Hollyford Valley Walk.
The Details- Season Dates: Mid-October 2025 - April/May 2026
- Transport: A vehicle is required for subsidised transport to/from the valley
- Roster: On-off rotation
- Eligibility: Applicants must be NZ Residents/Citizens or hold a valid Working Holiday Visa for the full season
(We are not an Immigration NZ-accredited employer)
Ready to bring your culinary skills to the wild?
Tena, tono mai! Apply now with your CV and a cover letter telling us why this role is calling your name.
Learn more: www.hollyfordtrack.com