Amisfield owner John Darby was responding to the Otago Daily Times in the wake of reports of bullying and sexual harassment by former head chef Vaughan Mabee.
‘‘Vaughan Mabee was a longtime employee that I supported on to the world stage, but I misjudged his ability to lead our kitchen responsibly.
‘‘No amount of talent is an excuse for poor behaviour.’’
It has been reported this week that Mabee was officially warned for his behaviour in 2016, 2022 and again last year. He resigned earlier this year, his resignation becoming public late last week.
Mr Darby said all formal employee complaints were fully investigated at the time, resulting in formal disciplinary action and ‘‘following a further complaint late last year, Vaughan was removed from the workplace and we accepted his resignation’’.
In the past few weeks, several women have come forward about Mabee’s behaviour, which included allegations of bullying, sexual harassment and drinking and drug taking on the job.
One former employee told the ODT Mabee was shielded and treated ‘‘like a god’’.
Mabee and the winery restaurant Amisfield, founded by Mr Darby in 1988, have won several awards over the years.
In 2023, Mabee was named one of the World’s Top 100 Chefs and the restaurant is expected to be in the running for New Zealand’s first Michelin star.
But Mr Darby yesterday apologised.
‘‘I deeply regret that any staff felt unable to speak up sooner. I do not condone Vaughan’s behaviour and the culture he created. I hear those who have come forward and regret that our support was not more responsive in the past.’’
He said the restaurant was committed to a total recalibration of its culture, with the restaurant’s future in the ‘‘capable hands’’ of Simon Toneycliffe and his leadership team.
Yesterday, Mr Toneycliffe said it had become clear that meaningful change was required.
‘‘While some of the workplace issues predated my tenure, addressing them and ensuring we create the environment our people deserve is my responsibility.
‘‘Rebuilding trust through leadership, accountability and action is now a clear priority.’’
