Drived me insane - Chef De Parties Hiakai Employee Review

I spent almost exactly a year at Hiakai, and it was a amazing experience. The team and management at Hiakai were consummate professionals, and all pushing themselves at a frenetic pace. It's clear that fine dining isn't for everyone, as an employment option or as a dining experience, pressure is very high, delicate feelings can sometimes take bruisings. But I experience nothing but respect, courtesy and Aroha during my time there. I saw many people come and go, but this is not an easy industry to stay in for any length of time without some measure of passion or at least professional interest.

The stairs, omg, all the stairs.

Pride in my workplace and pride in my work. Learned a lot from my co workers

Constant abuse and bullying more specifically. Some physical abuse in some instances aswell. Worked 90 hour weeks on a 40 hour salary and then extra work outside of these hours at home too. All this only to be told there would be no reference supplied and continued and worsened abuse once resignation was given. I need therapy after my experience here. It also killed my passion for hospitality and has left me with serious mental health issues.