At the Restaurant Association, we believe in the power of diversity and inclusivity within the restaurant industry. Our commitment to creating a thriving, equitable, and empowered industry and workforce is reflected in our dedication to supporting women in the industry.
Women have played a vital role in shaping the hospitality industry, and we are here to provide them with the resources, training, and mentorship they need to excel in their careers.
Women bring unique perspectives, creativity, and talents to the restaurant industry. However, they still face challenges, including gender bias and inequality in the workplace. We believe it’s crucial to address these issues and create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all.
The Women’s Support Hub aims to:
Promote equality:
Achieving gender equality is not just a moral imperative; it also makes good business sense. A more diverse workforce leads to better decision-making, improved creativity, and a stronger bottom line.
Break barriers:
Women often encounter barriers in terms of career progression, equal pay, and leadership roles. We aim to break down these barriers and empower women to reach their full potential.
Inspire the next generation:
By supporting women in the industry, we set an example for the next generation of hospitality professionals, encouraging them to pursue their dreams.
Resources and Training:
Our commitment to empowering women in the hospitality industry extends to providing valuable resources and training opportunities.
Explore our extensive library of online resources, including articles, videos, and guides, covering various aspects of the restaurant and café industry, career growth, and leadership.
New Zealand is increasingly experiencing what economists describe as a two-speed economy. While some sectors and regions are thriving, others, especially consumer-facing industries like hospitality — are still facing significant strain in many cases. On one side, exporters and primary industries continue to benefit from strong global demand. On the other, many operators in our…
Continue Reading NZ’s two-speed economy: what it means for hospitality
Your online presence is now your front door, often the first (and sometimes only) impression a potential customer will have of your business. With more diners searching, booking, and deciding where to eat online, sharpening that visibility can directly lift your bookings. Here are three quick wins you can put in place right now to…
Continue Reading Lift bookings with smarter online visibility
Waiter/Waitress Start: September 2025 EXPERIENCED WAITRESS/ WAITER (x2) Farina is an iconic, fast-paced restaurant located on Ponsonby Road, known for its authentic Italian cuisine, extensive beverage list, and exceptional dining experience. Established in 2014 and fully renovated in 2024, Farina has become a culinary destination offering outstanding service. We are proud to have been awarded…
Mentorship Programme:
Our new mentorship programme aims to connect business owners and experienced professionals with aspiring individuals or other businesses owners in the industry. Whether you’re seeking to open your own business, are new to business, looking for guidance or want to give back to the industry and mentor someone, we’re here to facilitate these important connections.
Join Our Mentorship Programme:
Are you a woman who owns a business in the hospitality industry looking for mentorship, an aspiring business owner or eager to mentor someone else? Join our mentorship program and be a part of this empowering network:
Mentees: If you’re a woman seeking guidance, support, and professional growth, sign up as a mentee. We will connect you with experienced mentors who can help you navigate your career path.
Mentors: If you are an experienced professional in the restaurant industry and want to make a difference in the lives of aspiring women, sign up as a mentor. Share your knowledge, experience, and insights to empower the next generation.