Kitchen Assistant

About Heritage Lifecare and Waterlea Lifecare

Heritage Lifecare stands as one of New Zealand's foremost aged care providers, recognized as the largest dementia care institution in the country. Operating across 42 care homes and 20 villages nationwide, the organization fosters a supportive and nurturing culture akin to a whanau (family). Waterlea Lifecare, located in the sunny Marlborough town of Blenheim, is a friendly, family-centered 61-bed care home. The region boasts beautiful scenery, mountains, vineyards, and a warm climate, offering an appealing lifestyle with affordable housing, short commutes, and excellent amenities including schools and recreational options.

Role Overview

We are seeking a Kitchen Assistant for Waterlea Lifecare, a permanent part-time position of 24 hours per week. This role involves working morning and weekend shifts (6:45am to 1:45pm) on a four-days-on, four-days-off schedule. The ideal candidate will have a passion for culinary work and a dedication to enhancing residents' well-being through nutritious, hearty meals while ensuring individual dietary needs are met.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the preparation and service of nutritious meals for residents.
• Ensure compliance with individual dietary requirements and food safety standards.
• Maintain cleanliness and order in the kitchen and dining areas.
• Collaborate with team members to deliver quality food service.
• Support overall kitchen operations with reliability and enthusiasm.

Required Skills and Experience

• Previous experience in catering and food service is preferred, especially in commercial kitchens; however, on-the-job training is provided.
• A strong passion for preparing food and delivering an excellent dining experience.
• Effective communication and interpersonal abilities coupled with sound time management.
• A genuine desire to assist others, paired with excellent customer service skills and a positive demeanor.
• Capability to uphold high-quality standards in food delivery.

Benefits and Opportunities

• Join a leading and progressive aged care organization in New Zealand.
• Competitive remuneration commensurate with skills and experience.
• Access to professional development and career progression opportunities.
• A supportive, teamwork-oriented work environment.
• Make a meaningful contribution to the lives of care home residents.

Additional Information

• Applications close on 20 August 2026.
• Applicants must have the legal right to work in New Zealand; visa sponsorship is not typically available.
• Heritage Lifecare values diversity, inclusion, and upholds the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.