ECE Centre Cook (BestStart Pinnacles)
BestStart Pinnacles in Northlake, Wānaka is on the lookout for a warm, friendly, and community‑minded Centre Cook to join our caring team. Guided by our philosophy “Respect grounds us, Nature grows us,” we’re a modern, welcoming centre where relationships, wellbeing, and belonging sit at the heart of everything we do.
Our kitchen sits right in the middle of the centre, making it a lively, social space. You’ll need to be comfortable chatting with curious tamariki, answering their questions, and being part of the daily buzz. We’re also looking for someone who is happy to step into the classroom to support Kaiako when needed, teamwork is everything here.
About the Role
We are expanding our food offering for families and are seeking a Centre Cook who can prepare fresh, nutritious meals and snacks each day. You’ll follow our centre menus, support positive mealtime experiences, and work closely with teachers to meet dietary needs and allergies. Maintaining a clean, well‑organised kitchen and managing supplies will also be part of your daily rhythm.
This is a permanent, part‑time role working 30 hours per week, Monday–Friday, 8.30am–3pm.
What You’ll Bring
- Confidence and warmth when interacting with children around the kitchen
- A genuine love of cooking and creating nourishing meals
- Great organisational skills and the ability to work within a budget
- Strong knowledge of food safety, hygiene, allergies, and dietary requirements
- Efficiency and time‑management to meet daily meal deadlines
- Basic computer skills for menu planning and ordering
- A flexible, team‑focused attitude and willingness to help on the floor when needed
Why Join Us?
At BestStart Pinnacles, you’ll be part of a supportive, fun, and connected team. We enjoy monthly staff socials, wellness days, weekly homemade treats, and paid working bee days. We value kindness, collaboration, and creating a workplace where everyone feels appreciated.
BestStart Benefits Include:
- Paid Food Handling Certificate
- Learning through Whare Ako, our online learning platform
- Career development support
- $2000* for referring a Qualified Teacher
- Discounted childcare
- Subsidised health insurance*
- Free annual flu vaccinations
- Confidential EAP counselling
- Wellbeing programme
- Sick leave available from day one
- One week additional leave after 10 years of service
How to Apply: If you’re reliable, organised, love cooking, and enjoy being part of a warm early childhood environment where children are at the centre of everything, we’d love to hear from you. Click Apply Now and join our wonderful team at BestStart Pinnacles!
Applications for this role will take you to the advertisers site.
