Private Chef in Christchurch
Rent one of our 45 private chefs for a unique dining experience. You choose the menu, and the cleanup is included.





















A personal chef for any occasion in Christchurch
Since the first private chef joined Take a Chef in Christchurch in March 2018, more than 45 Private Chefs have joined our platform in Christchurch and offered their services as private chefs anywhere in Christchurch City.
Starting in 2018, 2,737 guests have already enjoyed a chef in Christchurch. To book your chef in Christchurch, just share your event details in our form. Receive proposals from top chefs and chat with them until you find your match.
Up until today, our chefs have shared 130 customized menu proposals, sending a total of 1,716 messages to their guests, who rated their experience with an average score of 4 out of 5.
Since the first dinner provided by Take a Chef, 2,737 guests have enjoyed unique experiences with no hassle. Our guests in Christchurch usually book menus around 177 NZD per person, including 4.66 courses, sharing an average of 4.26 messages with their chefs. If you've never had a chef at home but want to add an extra spice to your next celebration, just rent a chef in Christchurch.












How it works
Personalize your request
Share with us the details of your dream meal, including type of cuisine, preferences, and intolerances.
Receive menu proposals
Our chefs will design menus based solely on your wants and needs.
Get chatty with your chefs
Don't be shy about exchanging some messages with your chefs until your perfect menu is ready!
Book your experience
Once you are happy with your choice, submit your payment to secure your experience.
Enjoy!
All there is left to do is count down the days till your culinary experience begins!
45 Private Chefs in Christchurch
Get to know more about our top rated Private Chefs in Christchurch












More than 2,700 guests have already enjoyed the experience
4 Chef
The guests in Christchurch have scored the experience with their Private Chef with a 4.
4 Food quality
The quality of the menus cooked by our Private Chefs in Christchurch received an average score of 4.
4 Presentation
Not only taste counts! The presentation of our private chefs' dishes has received a 4 average score.
4 Cleaningness
The cleanup of the kitchen and dining area in Christchurch has been scored with a 4 on average.
View full review
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130 menus personalized by our Private Chefs in Christchurch
Every occasion is unique - make sure you have the right chef and menu for it!








Spiced zucchini & chickpea fritters with lemon yoghurt (vegetarian)
Chicken yakitori skewers
Smoked eggplant baba ghanoush (vegetarian)
Mini smoked salmon & chive blinis with crème fraîche
Karaage chicken with yuzu mayo
Miso-roasted eggplant with crispy tofu & black sesame fragrant coconut rice (vegetarian)
Chargrilled market fish fillets with lemon & capers
Slow-cooked lamb shoulder with rosemary, garlic & salsa verde
Black sesame pavlova with coconut cream & mango
Lemon curd basque cheesecake (gf)
Roasted rhubarb & vanilla panna cotta with macadamia brittle
Chocolate mousse with orange and cherries
Seared scallops with cauliflower purée
Salmon tataki with ponzu & daikon
Lemongrass and coconut prawns with chilli-lime dressing
Edamame with sea salt & togarashi (vegetarian)
Chilled spanner crab salad with lemon dressing
Freshly shucked oysters with lemon, mignonette & cucumber granita
Kingfish crudo with gochujang & pomegranate
Tomato & avocado “sashimi” with soy dressing (vegetarian)
Grilled market fish with lemon caper butter, pumpkin & macadamia salad
Teriyaki salmon fillets
Tamarind glazed salmon with sesame greens, brown rice & pickled cucumber salad
Handmade sweetcorn & ricotta agnolotti with brown butter, lemon & crisp sage (vegetarian)
Miso & burnt caramel tart with salted macadamia praline
Roasted peach & vanilla panna cotta with macadamia brittle
Black sesame pavlova with coconut cream & mango
Profiterole & cannoli tower
Market oyster, nz wakame, fresh wasabi
Scampi tartare, shrimp cracker, wasabi, pickled ginger
Salmon rillette on toast, lemon crème fraiche, chive
Wairiri buffalo mozzarella toast, clevedon tomato, black olive (vegetarian)
40 degree salmon, miso roasted cauliflower, ginger broth, nz wakame
East coast crayfish bisque, green lipped mussels, baguette
Smoked salmon and prawn squid ink tortellini, chilli-mussel sugo
Farro salad with feta, grapes, nam pla prik (vegetarian)
Seafood laksa bisque, green lipped mussels, scampi, calamari, fresh herbs
Market fish, ratatouille, chervil beurre blanc
Mount cook salmon, almond skordalia, acili ezma, cress oil
Tempeh miso ramen, nori, shiitake mushrooms, soft egg (vegetarian)
Matcha panna cotta, dulce de leche, biscoff crumb
Caramel coconut sticky rice, hazelnut, roasted figs
Rhubarb pavlova, orange pastry cream
New zealand cheeseboard
Stuffed green lipped mussels
Scampi cocktail, spicy mayo, baby cos
Mezze platter | midya dolma (stuffed green lipped mussels)
House-made baked ricotta, roasted pumpkin, pine nut, basil, grilled baguette
Bouillabaisse, market fish, scampi, clams, saffron rouille
Scampi, lemon butter sauce, courgette noodles, fresh herbs
Mushroom gnocchi, pancetta, parmesan cream, truffle
Leek and taleggio risotto with walnut pesto (v)
Black origin wagyu, potato puree, oxtail croquettes, truffle jus
Lumina slow cooked moroccan lamb, saffron risotto, raita
Market fish, squid ink risotto, butter sauce
Miso roasted cauliflower, ginger broth, tofu, new zealand wakame (vegetarian)
Baklava japanese cheesecake, honey comb, pistachio crumb
Chocolate tart, black plum, hazelnut, vanilla mascarpone
Pine nut and coconut custard tart, spiced roast pear (gf)
Petit fours
Tempura vegetables with tentsuyu (vegetarian)
Seared scallops with cauliflower purée
Salmon tataki with ponzu & daikon
Smoked kenmare salmon with crème fraîche and beetroot
Tuna tataki with sambal matah & lime
Vietnamese-style lemongrass beef salad with crispy shallots
Handmade ricotta & spinach ravioli with sage butter (vegetarian)
Kingfish crudo with gochujang & pomegranate
Tamarind glazed salmon with sesame greens, brown rice & pickled cucumber salad
White risotto with new season courgettes and toasted hazelnuts (vegetarian)
Wakanui beef short rib – pomegranate & soy glaze
Slow-roasted porchetta with salsa verde
Rose & pistachio namelaka with yuzu sorbet
Profiterole & cannoli tower
Black sesame pavlova with coconut cream & mango
Flourless dark chocolate marquise with salted caramel & praline crunch
Seared scallops with cauliflower purée
Salmon tataki with ponzu & daikon
Lemongrass and coconut prawns with chilli-lime dressing
Whipped feta with lemon zest (vegetarian)
Freshly shucked oysters with lemon, mignonette & cucumber granita
Chilled spanner crab & pomelo salad with chili & tamarind dressing
Tuna tataki with sambal matah & lime
Handmade sweetcorn & ricotta agnolotti with brown butter, lemon & crisp sage (vegetarian)
Grilled whole fish with garlic and coriander butter & charred lemon
Slow-roasted lamb shoulder with salsa verde
Wakanui beef short rib – pomegranate & soy glaze
Miso-roasted eggplant with crispy tofu & black sesame fragrant coconut rice (vegetarian)
Rose & pistachio namelaka with yuzu sorbet
Mango & yoghurt basque cheesecake with toasted coconut & lime syrup
Tiramisu tower
Profiterole & cannoli tower
Seared scallops with cauliflower purée
Salmon tataki with ponzu & daikon
Lemongrass and coconut prawns with chilli-lime dressing
Whipped feta with lemon zest (vegetarian)
Freshly shucked oysters with lemon, mignonette & cucumber granita
Handmade ricotta & spinach ravioli with sage butter (vegetarian)
Tuna tataki with sambal matah & lime
Prosciutto, melon & mint
Grilled whole fish with garlic and coriander butter & charred lemon
Slow-roasted porchetta with salsa verde
Handmade sweetcorn & ricotta agnolotti with brown butter, lemon & crisp sage (vegetarian)
Wakanui beef short rib – pomegranate & soy glaze
Rose & pistachio namelaka with yuzu sorbet
Profiterole & cannoli tower
Tiramisu tower
Mango & yoghurt basque cheesecake with toasted coconut & lime syrup
Market oyster, nz wakame, copersfolley wasabi
Scampi tartare, shrimp cracker, fresh wasabi, pickled ginger
Whipped foie gras, pickled rhubarb, toast
Semi-dried tomato crostini, whipped chèvre, tapenade (v)
Scampi, lemon butter sauce, courgette noodles, fresh herbs
Goats curd agnolotti, hazelnut, brown butter, sage (vegetarian)
Bouillabaisse, market fish, scampi, clams, saffron rouille
Truffle yaki udon, wild mushrooms, parmesan, 63 degree egg
Black origin wagyu, celeriac puree, oxtail croquettes, truffle jus
Herb crusted lumina lamb rack, carrot purée, green olive relish, goats curd, jus
Seafood laksa bisque, green lipped mussels, scampi, calamari, fresh herbs
Miso roasted cauliflower, ginger broth, tofu, new zealand wakame (vegetarian)
Saffron-poached pears, burnt honey cream, liquid puff pastry
Chocolate tart, black plum, hazelnut, vanilla mascarpone
Vegan chocolate mousse, black dorris plum, hazelnut
Petit fours
Personalize your menu
A romantic dinner or a gathering of friends. Traditional dishes or exotic flavours. A fine dining experience or a family-style meal. Every private chef experience is unique! Submit your request and personalize yours.








Frequently asked questions
Below, you can find the most common questions about private chef services in Christchurch.
What does a private chef service include in Christchurch?
A private chef service includes everything necessary to enjoy a personalized dining experience at home. This includes:
- Customization of a menu based on your preferences;
- Purchase of ingredients;
- Mise en place (preparation of ingredients) before arrival;
- Preparation of the menu at your home;
- Complete table service;
- Set up and cleaning of the kitchen and used spaces.
Please note that tableware and glassware are not included. Gratuity is entirely at your discretion.
How much does a private chef cost in Christchurch?
The price of renting a chef in Christchurch can vary depending on the specifics, but smaller groups tend to have a slightly different price per person compared to larger gatherings.
Booking prices range from 139 NZD to 242 NZD. For groups of 13 people or more, the price is 139 NZD per person. For groups of 7 to 12 people, the cost is 137 NZD per person. For groups of 3 to 6 people, the rate is 175 NZD per person, and for 2 people, the price is 242 NZD per person.
Seasonal ingredients, your location, and how soon you book also affect the final price. If you're interested in getting free quotes with no obligation, fill out our form and let the best chefs near you send unique proposals for your event.
How can I hire a private chef in Christchurch?
Booking is easy! Just tell us the date of your event, number of guests, dietary preferences and any allergies, and a few details about your kitchen. Within a few hours, you'll receive customized menus from qualified chefs. Each chef's profile will include their experience, reviews, and photos of their dishes.
Feel free to chat directly with the chefs through our platform. Ask them to modify menus, discuss pricing, or get answers to any questions you might have. Once you've found the perfect chef and menu, finalize your reservation online. We'll then provide the chef's contact information to confirm any final details.
How can I find a private chef near me?
There are currently 45 chefs available in Christchurch. Fill out a form specifying your needs and the date. Take a Chef will connect you with the best available chefs in Christchurch who will send you their menu proposals. You can then choose the chef and menu that suits you best.
Is there a maximum number of guests for a private chef service?
While there's no strict limit on guest count, private chef experiences are designed to create a more intimate atmosphere, perfect for gatherings of friends and family. Since most homes have limited space to accommodate large groups, parties typically don't exceed 15 people.
Does the chef cook at my house?
Yes, the chef always prepares the menu at your home for a more personalized experience. However, some prep work might be done beforehand for complex dishes.
Can I cook along with the chef?
Absolutely! Many guests are passionate about food and relish the chance to learn from the chef. You can pick up new kitchen skills and get a behind-the-scenes look at each dish on the menu. Feel free to jump in and cook alongside the chef for a truly interactive experience!
Are the ingredients fresh?
Yes, they're 100% fresh. Unlike restaurants with pre-made dishes, private chefs prioritize using the freshest ingredients possible. This is because the chef creates a customized menu specifically for you, then goes out and sources the finest ingredients to bring your chosen dishes to life.
Are drinks included in the personal chef service?
Drinks are not typically included, but you can discuss adding them to the menu proposal with the chef.
How much should I tip my private chef in Christchurch?
Tipping for private chefs is entirely at your discretion. Our goal is for you to have an unforgettable experience, and the chef always appreciates a nice tip. However, the decision and amount are completely up to you.
Key information about our chefs in Christchurch
Discover more details about our private chefs and their services.
The average age of our private chefs in Christchurch
Percentage of our women chefs in Christchurch.
The average wait time from submitting the request and receiving the first menu.
Our very first private chef service in Christchurch.
Percentage of services with kids in Christchurch.
Maximum number of bookings for a personal chef by a single client in Christchurch.
Increase in the number of bookings for a chef from last year in Christchurch.
Languages spoken by our personal chefs in Christchurch.
Percentage of guests that hired a chef more than once.
Average number of days booked for multiple services at home with a private chef.
Photos uploaded to the platform by our private chefs in Christchurch.
Average timeframe from sending the request to booking.
How many chef services are booked in Christchurch each month?
Private chef reservations can vary seasonally depending on the destination. In Christchurch, for example, demand often increases during special dates like Valentine's Day or Mother's Day, so it's best to book in advance.
If you're wondering about the best time to hire a chef, any month is perfect for enjoying a private chef. Just keep in mind that prices may vary, especially for last-minute bookings. So, don't wait—book your chef early to secure your unique dining experience in Christchurch.
Cost of a private chef in Christchurch
The cost of hiring a private chef in Christchurch can vary based on several factors, including the number of people in your group or seasonality. Larger groups tend to have a different average rate per person compared to smaller groups that hire a chef:
Booking prices range from 139 NZD to 242 NZD per person.
For 13 people or more: 139 NZD
For 7 to 12 people: 137 NZD
For 3 to 6 people: 175 NZD
For 2 people: 242 NZD.
Additionally, prices can fluctuate depending on the time of year, location, and how soon you book your personal chef. If you want to get free quotes, just fill out our form and receive tailored proposals for your event. No committment at all.
What is the most reserved type of cuisine in Christchurch?
We mainly offer six types of cuisine in Christchurch: Mediterranean, Italian, French, Japanese, Mexican, and surprise. The type of cuisine with the highest number of bookings is the Chef's special, but you can have anything you want (our surprise menu will cover that!).
Beyond these six types of cuisine, our private chefs personalize diverse menus for their clients every day, adjusting every detail to find the perfect menu for every occasion and every group. Our private chefs can accommodate any allergy or dietary restriction and suggest other cuisines or fusion dishes. Submit your request and hire a chef in Christchurch!






Talk to our chefs in Christchurch
Each of our chefs is one-of-a-kind, with professional culinary training and years of experience in diverse restaurants. Craving Italian pasta, Spanish paella, or traditional sushi in Christchurch? You’ll get it. Tell us about your event in Christchurch, and discover the best chefs who will customize every detail of your experience.










Cities where you can enjoy a Private Chef
Discover cities of New Zealand where you can enjoy our experiences.
Other types of services in Christchurch
Discover the services offered by Take a Chef in New Zealand.