James Stapley

Executive Chef/Owner

Kika

Starting his career at the Park Lane Hilton in London aged 16, James has only ever been a chef.

After 4 years as Head Chef of The Premier in Selfridges Luxury Department Store he moved to New Zealand. Shortly after achieving restaurant of the year at Pegasus Bay in Canterbury, James moved again to Wanaka, the place he now calls home. Whare Kea Lodge is where James honed his craft, cooking for a max of 12 guests per night on a daily changing 6 course menu. 8 years on, James opened locals favourite, Francescas Italian Kitchen.

In 2017 Kika was born, placing on the Worlds Top 50 Discovery List, achieving Two Hats and winning Best Casual Dining Restaurant from Cuisine Magazine in 2024. Kika has been operating now for 8 years in Wanaka and Chef James is a champion for local growers and great produce throughout New Zealand.