Head chef
Head Chef – Karahui Wine Bar Restaurant
Martinborough, Wairarapa
Full-time | 35–45 hrs/week
Competitive salary based on experience
Applicants must currently reside in New Zealand
⸻
About the Role
Karahui is a celebrated wine bar and restaurant in the heart of Martinborough, located on the iconic town square. We are seeking a talented and ambitious Head Chef to lead our kitchen as we gear up for a vibrant new season.
This is more than just a job — it’s a rare opportunity for a chef with entrepreneurial aspirations. You’ll have creative freedom, a loyal customer base, and the chance to take the reins of a respected hospitality brand.
⸻
What We Offer
A well-established local brand with strong community support
Prime setting in one of New Zealand’s premier wine destinations
Experienced and committed front-of-house team
Genuine pathway to lease or buy the business for the right candidate
⸻
Why Martinborough?
Just over an hour from Wellington, Martinborough offers the perfect lifestyle for passionate chefs: boutique wineries, bustling events, award-winning produce, and a welcoming, creative community.
⸻
What We’re Looking For
Proven leadership in a busy kitchen environment
Deep respect for seasonal and regional ingredients
Strong kitchen management skills: food costs, stock, compliance
Calm, collaborative leadership approach
Drive to evolve the business and take it to the next level
⸻
Key Responsibilities
Develop and cost seasonal menus that reflect the region
Maintain profitable kitchen operations and cost control
Build strong supplier relationships
Lead and develop your kitchen team
Ensure full Food Safety and Health Safety compliance
Contribute ideas, energy, and consistency to a thriving restaurant
⸻
Future Ownership Opportunity
We recognise how tough it is to start a hospitality business from scratch — so we’re offering a rare, supported pathway to ownership. For the right candidate, this role could evolve into a lease-to-own or purchase opportunity within 12–24 months. You’ll be backed every step of the way.
⸻
How to Apply
Email your CV and a brief introduction to dudley@karahui.co.nz.
Tell us what excites you in the kitchen and why this opportunity speaks to you.
www.karahui.co.nz
Job Type: Full-time
Schedule:
Evening shift
Application Question(s):
How many years have you lead your own kitchen as a head chef?
Work Location: In person
Apply Now
Martinborough, Wairarapa
Full-time | 35–45 hrs/week
Competitive salary based on experience
Applicants must currently reside in New Zealand
⸻
About the Role
Karahui is a celebrated wine bar and restaurant in the heart of Martinborough, located on the iconic town square. We are seeking a talented and ambitious Head Chef to lead our kitchen as we gear up for a vibrant new season.
This is more than just a job — it’s a rare opportunity for a chef with entrepreneurial aspirations. You’ll have creative freedom, a loyal customer base, and the chance to take the reins of a respected hospitality brand.
⸻
What We Offer
A well-established local brand with strong community support
Prime setting in one of New Zealand’s premier wine destinations
Experienced and committed front-of-house team
Genuine pathway to lease or buy the business for the right candidate
⸻
Why Martinborough?
Just over an hour from Wellington, Martinborough offers the perfect lifestyle for passionate chefs: boutique wineries, bustling events, award-winning produce, and a welcoming, creative community.
⸻
What We’re Looking For
Proven leadership in a busy kitchen environment
Deep respect for seasonal and regional ingredients
Strong kitchen management skills: food costs, stock, compliance
Calm, collaborative leadership approach
Drive to evolve the business and take it to the next level
⸻
Key Responsibilities
Develop and cost seasonal menus that reflect the region
Maintain profitable kitchen operations and cost control
Build strong supplier relationships
Lead and develop your kitchen team
Ensure full Food Safety and Health Safety compliance
Contribute ideas, energy, and consistency to a thriving restaurant
⸻
Future Ownership Opportunity
We recognise how tough it is to start a hospitality business from scratch — so we’re offering a rare, supported pathway to ownership. For the right candidate, this role could evolve into a lease-to-own or purchase opportunity within 12–24 months. You’ll be backed every step of the way.
⸻
How to Apply
Email your CV and a brief introduction to dudley@karahui.co.nz.
Tell us what excites you in the kitchen and why this opportunity speaks to you.
www.karahui.co.nz
Job Type: Full-time
Schedule:
Evening shift
Application Question(s):
How many years have you lead your own kitchen as a head chef?
Work Location: In person