Kitchen Assistant

Overview

Heritage Lifecare is seeking a Kitchen Assistant to support meal service at St Joseph’s Lifecare in Upper Hutt, Wellington. This role is based in a care home with hospital-level care and is suited to someone who enjoys working in a food service setting and contributing to resident wellbeing through quality meals.

Heritage Lifecare is a major aged care provider in New Zealand and the country’s largest dementia care provider. With a network of care homes and villages across the country, the organisation describes itself as a fast-growing, people-focused community with a nurturing culture.

Work Setting and Schedule

This is a casual position, meaning shifts are offered as needed rather than on a fixed regular roster. The role includes AM and PM shifts at the Upper Hutt site in Wellington.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Support the kitchen team in preparing and serving wholesome, nutritious meals for residents.
• Help ensure residents’ individual dietary needs and food preferences are properly met.
• Contribute to a positive dining experience through reliable, hands-on kitchen support.
• Work cooperatively with colleagues in a caring, resident-focused environment.

What the Employer Is Looking For

The ideal candidate will bring a strong interest in food service and a helpful, can-do attitude. Experience in catering or commercial kitchen work is preferred, though training can be provided on the job.

You should be comfortable communicating with others, managing your time well, and delivering work to a consistent quality standard. A friendly approach, good customer service instincts, and a genuine desire to support people are important for success in this role.

Benefits

• Opportunity to join one of New Zealand’s leading aged care organisations.
• Pay that reflects skills and experience.
• Room for learning, growth, and career progression.
• A supportive team environment built on collaboration.
• The chance to make a meaningful difference to residents’ daily lives.

Additional Information

Applications close on 29 Jul 2026. Candidates should have the legal right to work in New Zealand. Applications may be reviewed as they are received, and interviews could be arranged before the closing date. Heritage Lifecare states that it values diversity and inclusion and follows the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

The role is associated with St Joseph’s Lifecare in Upper Hutt, Wellington, and the source material also references a cook/kitchen-hand file attachment.