Executive Chef - Touvai Poloniati

Touvai Poloniati's journey in the culinary world has come full circle with his return to SkyCity as the Executive Chef of The Grill. Having completed his chef apprenticeship at SkyCity as a teenager, this represents a significant and nostalgic milestone in his career.

Hailing from Tonga, Poloniati's culinary exploration led him across the Pacific, where he honed his skills in kitchens spanning Hong Kong, Australia, and Canada. His international experiences undoubtedly contributed to a diverse culinary perspective, exposing him to different culinary techniques, flavors, and styles.

A pivotal part of Poloniati's culinary development involved training under renowned chefs, including Brent Savage at the Bentley Hospitality Group in Sydney. This exposure to high-caliber mentors likely played a crucial role in shaping his culinary philosophy and refining his skills.

Returning to New Zealand, Poloniati is now set to lead The Grill at SkyCity as its Executive Head Chef.