ECE Cook (BestStart Apirana Ave)

Are you a kitchen superstar who loves creating delicious, nutritious meals? BestStart Apirana is looking for an enthusiastic and experienced Cook to join our vibrant, community-focused centre. If you enjoy cooking for groups, understand nutrition, and love bringing joy to others through food - or if you're a passionate home cook who adores variety and baking - we'd love to hear from you!

At BestStart Apirana, whanaungatanga is at the heart of everything we do - building strong, genuine relationships with tamariki, whānau, and our team. We are a culturally rich, diverse centre located in the heart of Glen Innes, close to buses, trains, cafés, Pak'nSave, Chemist Warehouse, and a wide range of local shops.

As the centre Cook, you'll be responsible for planning and preparing nutritious meals each day and ensuring all food safety requirements are met. You will organise menus, complete weekly shopping, and maintain accurate records of children's preferences, dietary needs, and allergies. You will also support the Healthy Heart programme and help promote lifelong healthy eating habits.

This role is central to creating a warm, caring environment that supports the health and wellbeing of our tamariki.

We believe in growing together and supporting our team to shine.

Permanent Part-Time | 25 hours per week | Monday–Friday hours worked can be negotiable.

Our Benefits Include:

• Paid Food Handling Certificate
• Ongoing learning through Whare Ako, our online learning platform
• Career development opportunities—we'll support you to grow your skills
• $2,000 referral bonus for recommending a qualified teacher*
• Discounted childcare

Your wellbeing matters:

• Subsidised health insurance*
• Free annual flu vaccinations
• EAP confidential counselling
• Wellbeing programme
• Sick leave available from your first day
• One week of additional leave after 10 years of service

What We're Looking For:

• Experience in cooking for large groups OR confidence as a passionate home cook
• A love for cooking and baking, with creativity in the kitchen
• Strong knowledge of kitchen health & safety and high hygiene standards
• Understanding of allergies, intolerances, and dietary requirements
• Basic computer skills to design menus and place weekly orders
• Ability to manage food budgets
• A passion for promoting healthy eating for young children
• Someone organised, proactive, and committed to making a positive difference

Join Us!

If you're excited to bring your culinary passion to a centre that values whanaungatanga, culture, and community, we'd love to welcome you to our team. Click 'Apply Now' and start your journey with BestStart Apirana Ave!