Wharekai Kitchen Hand
Kaupapa | Purpose
The Study in the Whare Support Kaimahi plays an important role in supporting our regular Thursday Study in the Whare kaupapa at Mokoia Campus.
Study in the Whare provides ākonga with a welcoming space at the marae to come together, share kai, connect with others and spend time studying in a supportive environment.
In this casual role, you will help make each session run smoothly from start to finish. This includes preparing and setting up the wharekai, receiving and plating supplied kai, serving food and drinks, supporting safe food handling practices, and packing down afterwards.
Working alongside the Kaitiaki, Marae Operations and our catering provider, you will also be a warm and approachable presence for ākonga — welcoming people into the space, engaging in kōrero and helping create an inclusive, mana-enhancing environment.
There may also be opportunities to provide casual support for other marae-based activities and events, particularly where food preparation, service, set-up or event support is required.
Reports to: Kaitiaki, Marae Operations
Team: Tiriti Partnerships and Māori Success
Location: Mokoia Campus, Rotorua
Ngā mahi | Do
In this role, you will:
- Set up and pack down the wharekai for lunch and Study in the Whare sessions, including tables, chairs, crockery, drinks and waste removal.
- Work with Marae Operations to coordinate supplier-provided kai and other requirements for each session.
- Receive, prepare, plate and serve kai and drinks in accordance with safe food handling and hygiene practices.
- Provide a warm and welcoming presence for ākonga and help create an inclusive, ākonga-focused environment.
- Engage positively with ākonga, kaimahi, suppliers and others using the marae.
- Uphold and respect the tikanga and kawa of the whare.
- Follow health, safety and wellbeing requirements, including safe manual handling, and promptly report hazards or incidents.
- Provide feedback on how Study in the Whare is operating to support the kaupapa as it becomes established and develops.
- Provide casual support for other marae-based activities or events where required.
- Carry out any other reasonable and lawful duties delegated by a manager or authorised kaimahi.
Pūkenga | Have
We are looking for someone who brings:
- A warm, approachable manner and genuine care for ākonga.
- Confidence working within a marae and wharekai environment, with respect for tikanga and kawa.
- An understanding of te ao Māori; te reo Māori is welcomed but is not essential.
- Experience in hospitality, catering, food service or events would be an advantage.
- Knowledge of safe food handling and hygiene practices, or a willingness to complete relevant training on appointment.
- Reliability, initiative and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
- Clear communication skills and confidence engaging with ākonga, kaimahi and suppliers.
- The physical ability to safely set up and pack down tables, chairs and other equipment.
Ready to apply? Apply online with your CV and a brief cover letter telling us a little about yourself, your interest in the role, and any relevant experience you bring. As this is a casual position, please also include the days and hours you are generally available to work, including whether you are available on Thursdays for Study in the Whare.
