Join Nest and create unforgettable dining experiences through exceptional wine and genuine hospitality.
Perched above Lake Wakatipu with sweeping views of The Remarkables, Nest delivers a warm and welcoming dining experience at Kamana Lakehouse.
At Nest, we believe every meal should be memorable. We’re looking for an experienced Sommelier & Host who is passionate about New Zealand wine, loves connecting with people, and thrives in a elevated dining environment.
This is a unique opportunity to combine your wine expertise with a guest-facing leadership role, where you’ll shape our wine programme while delivering warm, personalised service that keeps guests coming back.
About the Role
As our Sommelier & Host, you’ll be the face of our wine programme and an integral part of the Food & Beverage leadership team. Working closely with our Food & Beverage Manager, Restaurant Manager, and Head Chef, you’ll curate an outstanding New Zealand-focused wine list, mentor the team, and create exceptional dining experiences through expert recommendations and genuine hospitality.
No two days are the same. You’ll spend time on the restaurant floor engaging with guests, managing the cellar, training the team, working with suppliers, and helping drive beverage sales and guest satisfaction.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Curate and manage a premium New Zealand-focused wine programme
- Recommend wines and food pairings that elevate the guest experience
- Manage wine purchasing, inventory, cellar operations, and supplier relationships
- Monitor wine sales, margins, and stock performance
- Source exciting and exclusive wines that complement our dining philosophy
- Deliver engaging wine training and education for the F&B team
- Welcome and host guests, providing attentive, personalised service throughout their visit
- Promote premium wine experiences and degustation pairings
- Support restaurant service and lead by example during busy services
- Mentor and coach team members to deliver consistently exceptional hospitality
What You’ll Bring
- At least 2 years’ experience as a Sommelier or in a similar fine dining role
- Strong knowledge of New Zealand wines, regions, varietals, vintages, and food pairing
- WSET Level 2 (or equivalent) and/or LCQ (preferred but not essential)
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
- Strong commercial awareness with experience managing wine inventory and profitability
- A passion for delivering memorable guest experiences
- The flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and public holidays
Why This Role
- The opportunity to shape and grow an exciting wine programme
- Working alongside passionate hospitality professionals
- Ongoing learning and professional development
- A supportive, collaborative team culture
- The chance to build meaningful relationships with guests while sharing your passion for New Zealand wine
Ready to Join Us?
If you’re passionate about wine, love creating memorable guest experiences, and want to be part of a team committed to excellence, we’d love to hear from you.
Apply now with your CV and a brief cover letter telling us why you’d be a great fit.
