The Horopito Café at Orokonui Ecosanctuary is looking for two people to join our team, delivering a high quality café experience in a truly unique nature setting.
The Horopito Cafe at Orokonui supports the work of the sanctuary through showing manaaki to guests with delicious food and beverages, while also helping wildlife thrive with revenue going towards conservation at Orokonui.
Currently we are looking to fill two roles:
Café Assistant (Permanent Part-Time – Saturdays)
We’re looking for a friendly and reliable Café Assistant to join our team for a permanent part-time role, working Saturdays (minimum 4-hour shifts).
This is a great opportunity for someone looking to gain experience in hospitality, upskill, or step into their first café role in a supportive and welcoming environment.
About the role:
You’ll be part of a small, positive team delivering great service to visitors of the ecosanctuary. Tasks will include:
- Serving customers with warmth and professionalism
- Preparing cabinet food and basic café items
- Handling cash and EFTPOS transactions
- Supporting general café operations and cleanliness
What we’re looking for:
- A positive attitude and willingness to learn
- Good communication skills
- Reliability and punctuality
- Ability to work in a team and follow direction
No prior experience is required – just a great attitude and eagerness to learn.
Why join us?
- Supportive team environment
- Opportunity to build hospitality skills
- Unique workplace surrounded by nature
Senior Café Team Member (Permanent Part-Time)
We’re seeking an experienced hospitality professional to join our team in a permanent part-time Senior Café role.
This position involves working a minimum of Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays, with the option to pick up additional shifts on Thursdays and Fridays. Shifts are a minimum of 5 hours, with weekday hours potentially aligning with school hours.
About the role:
This is a hands-on position suited to someone confident across all areas of café operations. You’ll play a key role in delivering a high-quality customer experience while supporting and stepping up within the team when needed.
Responsibilities include:
- Providing excellent customer service
- Preparing and serving espresso coffee
- Food preparation, including cabinet food and baking
- Supporting day-to-day café operations across front and back of house
- Leading shifts when required and supporting junior team members
- Stepping into a 2IC role during periods of leave
- Maintaining high standards of cleanliness and efficiency
What we’re looking for:
- Proven experience in hospitality or café environments
- Confidence in making espresso coffee
- Strong food preparation and baking skills
- Leadership capability or readiness to step into leadership responsibilities
- A proactive, team-focused attitude
- Ability to jump into all areas of the café as needed
Bonus points for:
- Catering experience
- An interest in the values and mission of Orokonui Ecosanctuary
- A desire for long-term employment
Why join us?
- Work in a unique, purpose-driven environment
- Be part of a close-knit and supportive team
- Opportunities to contribute to catering and events
Sounds like you – get in touch
To apply or for more info about the role please email Horopito Café Manager Louise via louise@orokonui.nz
We are looking to fill these roles as soon as possible so don’t hesitate to apply. Applications will be considered as they are received.