The General, a popular award-winning café in Mount Maunganui, is seeking two experienced Chefs to join its dynamic kitchen team. Known for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients, house-made dishes, and vibrant beachside atmosphere, The General offers a creative environment with opportunities for growth. The ideal candidates will be passionate about food, skilled in café-style cuisine, and dedicated to maintaining high standards in quality, presentation, and teamwork.

The General

Position: 2 x Chef

Location: 22 Peel Street, Gisborne

Company: CNR Holdings Limited T/A The General

 

Job Description

As a Chef at The General, you will:
• Prepare and present high‑quality dishes that reflect The General’s standard for flavour, presentation and consistency.
• Collaborate with the Head Chef and management team in menu development — creating seasonal, innovative items that reflect our brand and local ingredients.
• Maintain rigorous food safety, hygiene and compliance standards.
• Assist in daily kitchen operations: inventory, ordering, ensuring the kitchen is organised and well‑stocked.
• Work closely with kitchen and front‑of‑house teams to train, motivate and support colleagues for consistent performance.
• Conduct regular quality checks so that all dishes leaving the kitchen meet our standards for taste, portion and presentation.
• Monitor and assist with food cost, portion‑control and waste reduction efforts while maintaining quality.
• Assist in gathering guest feedback through interaction with team and management to help refine our dining experience.

Business Hours
Monday – Sunday: 6:30 am – 3:00 pm
Rostered work will be across six days within these hours (flexible shifts including mornings, weekends, and public holidays)


Qualifications & Experience
• At least 2 years’ experience working as a Chef in a commercial kitchen
OR
• NZQA Level 4 in Cookery/Culinary Arts + at least 1 year relevant experience

Skills & Attributes
• A genuine passion for food, cooking and continuous improvement
• Strong knowledge of modern café cuisine, cooking methods and plating
• Excellent understanding of food safety and sanitation standards
• Great communication and teamwork skills
• Ability to work effectively in a fast, dynamic kitchen environment
• Flexibility to work weekends and public holidays as required
• Keen attention to detail and commitment to upholding culinary standards
• Enthusiasm for adapting to a variety of cuisines and guest preferences

Perks & Benefits
• Be part of a vibrant, high‑quality café environment with a strong reputation
• Work with fresh, locally‑sourced ingredients and daily‑made baking
• Learn and grow under experienced culinary leadership in a supportive team
• Competitive pay and opportunities for career progression
• Work at a location that is well‑regarded locally for its food, vibe and guest experience

If you’re passionate about delivering outstanding food, excited to join a team with strong reputation and local community connection, and ready to elevate your culinary career — we’d love to hear from you.

To apply, please send your resume and a brief cover letter detailing your passion for cooking and relevant experience to:
Email: [email protected]
Contact: Ramesh Krishnappa – 021 489 689

Join The General and help us continue to serve great food and genuine hospitality, every day.
Candidates must be NZ residents or hold valid NZ work rights.

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