About Us

First Mates, Last Laugh is centrally located on Westhaven Marina, overlooking the yachts and Auckland city. 

Owned and operated by renowned restauranteur Judith Tabron, we have quickly become a local's favourite, with our warm and inviting atmosphere that feels like home and a getaway all at once.  Our delicious food, eclectic cocktails and thoughtful beverage selection have been welcomed with rave reviews!

This is an exciting opportunity to join our passionate team, to support our Executive Chef and contribute to our creative culinary offerings.

Let's Eat! Let's Drink! Let's Work!

About the role

The Kitchen Hand is a vital support role within our kitchen team, responsible for maintaining a clean, organised, and efficient kitchen environment. This position ensures chefs can operate at their best by assisting with dishwashing, food preparation, cleaning, and general kitchen duties.

Key responsibilities

• Wash and sanitise crockery, cutlery, utensils, pots & pans and put away clean dishes.

• Perform basic food preparation tasks in the kitchen - assisting chefs to prepare stipulated menu items or ingredients for dishes.

• Clean kitchen surfaces, floors, equipment, and storage areas.

• Ensure cleaning equipment is kept clean and orderly.

• Remove rubbish and maintain waste disposal areas.

• Unpack and store deliveries, rotate stock, and monitor inventory levels.

• Follow set policies to maintain standards for food safety in all food preparation areas.

• Follow set policies to maintain standards for health & safety at work in all food preparation areas.

• Communicate well with other staff.

About you

• No formal qualifications required—on-the-job training provided

• Previous experience in a kitchen or hospitality setting is a plus

• Ability to work in a fast-paced, physically demanding environment

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to cleanliness

• Basic knife skills or food prep experience (advantageous but not essential)

• Good communication skills and a team-focused attitude

• Flexibility to work shifts, weekends, and public holidays

• Ability to receive instructions

• Positive attitude

• Ability to work competently under pressure

Applicants must be legally entitled to work in New Zealand and provide evidence of work eligibility upon request.