Front of House - Fixed Term - Central Otago

About Cloudy Bay

Cloudy Bay was born from a spirit of exploration. Inspired by Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc after a first taste in 1983, David Hohnen later joined with winemaker Kevin Judd in 1985 to create the brand with a commitment to producing New Zealand wines of exceptional quality. That standard has remained central ever since.

Role overview

Cloudy Bay is looking for an energetic and personable Front of House team member to help deliver memorable food-and-wine experiences at The Shed in Central Otago, home to Te Wahi, the brand’s Central Otago Pinot Noir. Located beside Lake Dunstan, this cellar door and restaurant offers guests a relaxed lunch setting with views of the vineyards and the chance to enjoy renowned Cloudy Bay wines.

This fixed-term position runs until April 2027. The venue operates five days per week, from Wednesday through Sunday. The role is varied and hands-on, combining restaurant service, cellar door wine tastings, and occasional support for the kitchen team.

What the role calls for

• A strong enthusiasm for hospitality and a genuine enjoyment of bringing people together through food and wine
• Previous experience in a wine-led setting such as a cellar door, wine bar, or restaurant
• Interest in food and wine, plus a willingness to keep learning and growing in both areas
• WSET certification or an equivalent qualification, which would be an advantage but is not mandatory
• The ability to create standout guest experiences that lead to wine and merchandise sales, as well as wine club sign-ups
• A friendly, collaborative personality that contributes well to a close-knit team

Requirements

• Experience in hospitality, ideally in an upscale restaurant or cellar door environment
• Legal entitlement to work in New Zealand
• Clear, thoughtful communication and a team-first attitude
• Availability to work weekends and public holidays
• Strong English communication skills; additional languages are an asset

Benefits and work environment

• Steady daytime working hours, with the venue open Wednesday to Sunday
• A scenic workplace set among vineyards with mountain views
• Discounts on wine, food, and merchandise from the cellar door and restaurant
• A supportive team culture focused on inclusion, wellbeing, and health and safety
• A well-organised and progressive professional setting
• Team events and staff experiences

Additional information

This is a fixed-term, on-site role based in Cromwell, Otago, New Zealand. The position is suited to someone who enjoys a hospitality environment that blends service, wine education, and guest engagement.