At My Private Chef, I want your dining experience to feel seamless from the very first enquiry. Below you’ll find clear answers to the most common questions about my private dining, multi-day chef services, and boutique wedding experiences in Queenstown, Arrowtown, and the Southern Lakes.
If you don’t see your question here, you’re always welcome to get in touch — I’m happy to help.
I recommend booking as early as possible, especially for peak seasons and holidays. However, I’ll always do my best to accommodate last-minute enquiries where availability allows.
Yes — all menus can be tailored to suit dietary needs such as gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, vegan, allergies, and more. Simply let me know during the planning stage.
Absolutely. I prepare and cook everything directly in your accommodation, whether it’s your private home, holiday rental, lodge, or luxury villa.
I am based in Queenstown and regularly travel to Arrowtown, Jack’s Point, Arthurs Point, Kelvin Heights, Lake Hayes, and surrounding Southern Lakes locations. For events beyond this area, feel free to enquire.
Every service includes planning, shopping, preparation, cooking, plating, table service, and clean-up. All you need to do is relax and enjoy your dining experience.
I cater to groups of all sizes, from intimate dinners for four to larger private parties of up to 20 guests. The final number will depend on your home and kitchen facilities, and I’m happy to advise on what will work best in your space.
Absolutely! Every menu can be customized to suit your preferences and dietary needs—whether you’re looking for an elegant multi-course experience or a laid-back, shared-style meal. I’ll collaborate with you to craft a menu that perfectly aligns with your tastes, requirements, and the unique vibe of your celebration.
Yes, I bring everything needed to prepare your meal on-site, including premium, locally sourced ingredients. If required, I can also supply all crockery, cutlery, and tableware (excluding glassware).
Private dining is ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply a special night in your villa or home. Whatever the occasion, I create an unforgettable dining experience from start to finish.
I provide private chef services across Queenstown, Arrowtown, Jacks Point, Kelvin Heights, Arthurs Point, and the wider Southern Lakes region.
If your event is outside these areas, travel fees may apply—just get in touch and I’ll confirm availability.
I specialize in catering for groups, from intimate dinners for 4 guests to gatherings of up to 20, depending on your kitchen setup and chosen menu style. Share your group size with me, and I’ll suggest the ideal service format to suit your needs.
Yes — I supply all crockery, cutlery, linen napkins, and tableware if needed.
If your accommodation already has equipment I can incorporate it into the service.
Yes — all meals are mostly prepared on-site in your home, lodge, villa or Airbnb.
I only need a functional kitchen space with basic appliances.
Every menu is tailored to your preferences, dietary needs, and event style.
I design each dish around seasonal New Zealand produce and the style of dining you want — refined tasting menu, shared plates, family-style dining, or casual group meals.
Yes — I regularly cater for gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, vegan, and allergy-friendly guests.
Just let me know your requirements when booking so I can plan your menu safely.
Pricing varies based on:
number of guests
menu style
ingredient selection
travel requirements
multi-day vs single-day service
Once I have your event details, I’ll provide a tailored quote.
Yes, a 50% deposit is required to confirm your booking. The remaining balance must be settled one week before your event date.
I accept bank transfers for payments made within New Zealand. For payments from outside New Zealand, please use the Wise platform (additional fees apply).
I offer a set menu for my sharing menu option, while the plated dining experience follows a “Trust the Chef” approach. This allows me to create dishes using the finest seasonal ingredients. Guests can specify their preferred choice of protein and share any other preferences beforehand, ensuring a tailored and memorable dining experience.
Your booking is confirmed once we finalise your menu and a deposit is received.
This secures your date exclusively for your event. The remaining balance is due closer to the service date, with all payment details clearly outlined during booking.
Cancellations made far enough in advance may be eligible for partial refunds depending on the circumstances.
Deposits are generally non-refundable, as your date is reserved specifically for you, and ingredients or planning may already be underway.
Full cancellation terms are provided at the time of booking.
Small adjustments can usually be accommodated if made ahead of time.
Larger changes may require menu updates or pricing adjustments based on ingredients and preparation.
It’s always best to advise changes as soon as possible.
Most kitchens in Queenstown and Arrowtown are well suited for private chef services.
If something essential is missing, I can often bring additional equipment or adjust the menu to suit the space.
If you’re unsure, feel free to send photos of the kitchen.
I understand that Queenstown is full of adventures.
If you expect a delay, simply let me know as soon as possible and I will adjust preparation or service timing where possible.
Significant delays may require small modifications to the menu flow, but I’ll always work with you to keep the experience seamless.
I wanted to let you know that I will be away from the office/kitchen from September 18th until October 12th, 2023.
Please note that during this time, my access to email will be very limited.
Rest assured that I will make every effort to respond to you as soon as possible.
Thank you once again for reaching out.