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- Tasks: Lead the kitchen, manage stock, and serve delicious pub food.
- Company: Join the iconic Whangamomona Hotel in rural Taranaki.
- Benefits: Board and meals provided, live-in position, and a supportive team.
- Other info: Full-time role from October 2025 to April 2026, with potential for extension.
- Why this job: Experience life in a quirky destination while honing your culinary skills.
- Qualifications: Proven cooking experience and ability to thrive under pressure.
Looking for your next culinary adventure? Come join us at the legendary Whangamomona Hotel, right in the heart of rural Taranaki. We’re seeking an experienced, hands-on cook to take the reins of our kitchen for the busy summer season. This is not your average kitchen gig, you’ll be working in one of New Zealand’s most iconic country pubs, serving locals, travellers, and tourists alike.
The Role
- Kitchen leadership – run day-to-day operations and keep service humming
- Ordering & stock management – keep the pantry full and waste minimal
- Team coordination – lead a small team during peak times
- Menu execution – deliver consistent, hearty, good-quality pub food
- Health & Safety compliance – maintain a clean, organised, food-safe kitchen
About You
We’re looking for someone who is:
- Experienced: Proven background in cooking and kitchen management
- Organised & reliable: Able to plan, order, and manage workflow
- Cool under pressure: Can handle a busy service with a smile
- Practical: Able to work in a semi-remote location (own transport helpful but not essential)
- Flexible & friendly: A team player who fits into a small, tight-knit crew
What We Offer
- Board & meals provided – save money and settle into the community
- Live-in position – make Whangamomona your home away from home
- Supportive environment – we’re a small team that works hard and has fun
- Unique experience – work in one of NZ’s quirkiest destinations, the “Republic of Whangamomona”
Contract Details
- Start: October 2025
- Finish: April 2026 (with potential to extend)
- Hours: Full-time, including weekends and public holidays during busy periods
Apply now for this role or get more information by contacting Richard Pratt.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Cook employer: Taranaki
Contact Detail:
Taranaki Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Cook
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the venue! Before your interview, take a moment to research the Whangamomona Hotel. Familiarise yourself with their menu and vibe so you can show off your passion for their culinary style during your chat.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your kitchen leadership skills! Think of examples from your past experiences where you’ve successfully led a team or managed a busy service. This will help you demonstrate your ability to keep things running smoothly under pressure.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your flexibility! Be ready to discuss how you adapt to different situations in the kitchen. Whether it’s handling unexpected rushes or adjusting menus, showing that you can think on your feet will make you stand out.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We want to make sure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s a great way to show your enthusiasm for joining our quirky team at the Whangamomona Hotel!
We think you need these skills to ace Cook
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Culinary Skills: When you're writing your application, make sure to highlight your cooking experience and any kitchen management roles you've had. We want to see how you can bring your culinary flair to our legendary pub!
Be Organised and Reliable: Mention your ability to manage stock and keep the kitchen running smoothly. We love a candidate who can plan ahead and minimise waste, so share any relevant examples from your past roles.
Keep It Friendly and Flexible: Since we’re a small team, it’s important to show us that you’re a team player. Talk about your experiences working with others in high-pressure situations and how you maintain a positive attitude during busy service times.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and get you on board for this unique culinary adventure in Whangamomona.
How to prepare for a job interview at Taranaki
✨Know Your Kitchen Basics
Before heading into the interview, brush up on your culinary skills and kitchen management knowledge. Be ready to discuss your experience with menu execution and how you handle ordering and stock management. This will show that you’re not just a cook, but a leader who can keep the kitchen running smoothly.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Since this role involves leading a small team, be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully coordinated with others in a busy kitchen. Highlight your ability to stay cool under pressure and how you foster a friendly, collaborative environment. This will demonstrate that you’re a great fit for their tight-knit crew.
✨Emphasise Your Flexibility
The job requires someone who is flexible and can adapt to the demands of a busy pub kitchen. During the interview, talk about times when you’ve had to adjust your plans or work outside your comfort zone. This will show that you’re ready to tackle the unique challenges of working in a semi-remote location.
✨Ask About Their Unique Experience
Engage with the interviewer by asking questions about what makes working at the Whangamomona Hotel special. Inquire about the community, the quirks of the location, and how they support their staff. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand if it’s the right fit for you.