At Home With… Vaughan Mabee | dish
Amisfield’s executive chef on lockdown life in his central Otago log ‘castle’, and why’s he clocking up serious cred with the neighbours.
dish.co.nzHere’s what I can share about Vaughan Mabee right now.
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Overview: Vaughan Mabee is a New Zealand chef who has been prominent as a head/executive chef at Amisfield in Queenstown and has appeared on MasterChef NZ as a judge in earlier years. He is known for his adventurous, terroir-driven cooking and for contributing to New Zealand’s contemporary culinary scene.
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Recent coverage: In 2026, multiple outlets reported allegations and subsequent developments related to his conduct at Amisfield, including a resignation in early 2026 after complaints. Amisfield officials stated they conducted an independent investigation and emphasized a commitment to a respectful workplace. These reports also note past warning incidents and a formal complaint history dating back to 2016 and 2021.
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Public statements: Mabee issued a public apology regarding his past behaviour, noting his intention to address personal health and family responsibilities alongside recognizing the impact of his actions on former staff.
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Context: Beyond Amisfield, Mabee has been described in festival and media profiles as a notable figure in New Zealand cuisine, with international appearances and coverage highlighting his culinary philosophy and style.
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