An award winning bistro style restaurant in Timaru is looking for a confident and detail focused waiter to join their small but energetic crew. The Oxford has become one of South Canterbury’s most popular dining spots because they blend old fashioned hospitality with a modern menu and an ever evolving wine list. If you enjoy connecting with guests, learning about craft beers and unique wine varieties, and working in a team that actually cares about your development, this full time role could be exactly what you have been searching for. You must be available for days, nights, and weekend shifts. A duty manager’s licence is preferred, but they will help the right person obtain one if you are at least twenty years old with recent experience.
About the Restaurant
The Oxford is a smart polished bistro located in Timaru, Canterbury. Recently they won the South Canterbury Business Excellence Awards for medium sized business, and a big part of that win came from their focus on team culture. They look for hospitality career focused people and provide ongoing professional development including team wine tastings, cross department training, and sales incentives. The atmosphere is relaxed but professional, and guests come to leave their stress at the door.
Key Responsibilities
Greet guests with genuine warmth and old fashioned hospitality principles, making them feel properly looked after from the moment they walk in. Present food and beverage menus clearly, answer questions about ingredients, and share your knowledge of the constantly evolving wine list and craft beers on tap. Take accurate orders and communicate them to the kitchen and bar without delays. Serve meals and drinks promptly, checking back to ensure everything meets guest expectations. Handle payments through the POS system and follow responsible service of alcohol guidelines at all times. Clear and reset tables efficiently, maintaining cleanliness and hygiene standards throughout your shift. Work closely with a small team to keep service smooth during busy dinner and weekend rushes.
Qualifications
At least one year of experience as a waiter in a restaurant or bistro setting. A genuine interest in non mainstream wine varieties and craft beer, plus a willingness to taste and learn. You must be at least twenty years old and have recent front of house experience to be eligible for a duty manager’s licence, or already hold one. Flexibility to work days, nights, weekends, and public holidays as needed. Strong attention to detail and the ability to stay calm and friendly during peak periods. Legal right to work in New Zealand.
Benefits and Perks
This full time position offers an hourly pay rate of twenty four to twenty six New Zealand dollars depending on your experience. You will receive staff meals during shifts, a uniform, and access to sales incentives. The team provides ongoing professional development including wine tastings and cross department training if you want to grow into other roles. You will be part of an award winning team that genuinely values its people.
How to Apply
If this waiter role at The Oxford in Timaru sounds like the right fit for your skills and personality, submit your resume through the job posting portal. Tell them about your experience with wine or craft beer and why you are looking for a long term hospitality career. This is a role designed for someone who wants to grow, contribute, and be recognized for it. We hope to hear from you.