Head Chef

We’re looking for a talented and motivated Head Chef to lead the kitchens behind Karahui Restaurant & Wine Bar and Tōhi Gin Room & Eatery. Karahui is our restaurant overlooking Martinborough Square, while Tōhi, right next door, offers a more relaxed, casual dining experience. The venues operate from two adjoining kitchens with one collaborative team, delivering two distinct menus and experiences.

We’re incredibly proud of what our team has built over the past few years — and we’re looking for someone who can help us build on it.

We’re a locally owned hospitality business that believes great venues are built by great people. We’re not just looking for someone to fill a role, we’re looking for someone who wants to become part of the journey. Our long-term goal is to find a Head Chef who grows into a business partner or owner. First, though, we need someone who can lead our team, continue delivering great food, and help both venues keep evolving.

About the role

As Head Chef, you’ll oversee the kitchen operation across both venues, working closely with the owners and front-of-house teams to deliver consistently great food and memorable guest experiences.

Two venues. Two kitchens. One team.
While each venue has its own personality, the kitchens work together as one team, sharing knowledge, prep where appropriate, and supporting each other through service.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Leading and inspiring a close-knit kitchen team, supported by a Sous Chef.
• Developing seasonal menus that reflect the identity of each venue.
• Creating recipes, costing menus and introducing new dishes.
• Managing food costs, ordering, stock control and kitchen systems.
• Preparing rosters and supporting efficient daily operations.
• Coaching and developing your team.
• Maintaining exceptional food quality, presentation and food safety standards.
• Working alongside the owners to develop seasonal events and special dining experiences.

What we offer

• The opportunity to lead two well-established hospitality venues with strong local and visitor support.
• A beautiful workplace in the heart of Martinborough.
• A supportive ownership team that values collaboration and fresh ideas.
• An experienced front-of-house team that works closely with the kitchen.
• A competitive salary with performance incentives.
• A planned winter pause at Karahui and a quieter season at Tōhi — everyone gets a proper annual break, guaranteed.
• Practical support to help you find accommodation and settle into Martinborough.
• A genuine pathway to partnership or ownership for the right person.

Why Martinborough?

Just over an hour from Wellington, Martinborough is one of New Zealand’s best-known wine villages. Surrounded by vineyards, local producers and an incredibly supportive hospitality community, it’s a fantastic place to build both a career and a lifestyle.

Whether it’s world-class wineries, mountain biking, great coffee, farmers’ markets or simply knowing your customers by name, Martinborough offers a way of life that’s hard to find in larger centres.

We’d love to hear from someone who

• Has experience leading a busy kitchen.
• Is confident managing multiple services and different dining styles.
• Enjoys creating contemporary food using quality seasonal produce.
• Understands food costing, ordering and kitchen systems.
• Leads with calmness, respect and clear communication.
• Enjoys mentoring others and building a positive kitchen culture.
• Takes pride in consistency, quality and attention to detail.
• Is looking for a long-term opportunity with room to grow.