Internationally renowned Chef Peter Gordon and his partner Alastair Carruthers have announced the impending closure of their dining destination, Homeland, at Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour.
Homeland’s premises and wider surroundings are being redeveloped and it is reported the commercial premises’ landlord, Winton, will not renew the lease.
“So with great sadness we are retreating. We will likely cease Dining Room service at the end of April, and the Cooking School at the end of July. In the meantime, we are still open for business,” says Gordon.
“Our staff are hugely impacted, and we ask for space while we consult with them and work out what is next for the Homeland project. Homeland’s purposes are not finished. The problem is premises.
“We deeply thank our sponsors, supporters, customers and kaimahi (staff) for the support you have given us since opening in 2020.”
“Last night – with the saddest of hearts – we began a change proposal consultation with our 34 wonderful and extraordinary staff.
“Our proposal is to close the Dining Room on 28 April – though we will consider alternatives. The Cooking School will run public and private classes until around 26 July. We await staff feedback and will make final decisions this week.
“We are unlikely to be able to support big events from May onwards and we must vacate by mid August.
“We are still doing business there for another four months. So please keep dining and cooking with us. The Dining Room keeps getting awards and the Cooking School programme is brilliant.
“Please also consider employing our people from May. It’s a very tough time for them and we can vouch for everyone.”
Hospitality Business has requested more information of Winton’s plans for the site, and future venues for the highly regarded Homeland project, which has embraced great Pasifika and New Zealand food stories.
The venue has also played an important role in various national food competitions and judging, including the Outstanding Food Producers Awards.
Co-owner Alastair Carruthers says they have been looking for alternative venues around Viaduct Harbour and the Wynyard Quarter – “our neighbourhood.”
If you have comments or queries regarding commercial leasing and your rights and responsibilities – let us know, so we can bring you the answers, at kdixon@intermedianz.co.nz .
