Our People

Matt & Lisa Cooper

Matt Cooper began his Cheffing in Auckland as a teenager working under Garry Bates at the wonderful 'Michaels' in Titirangi. Following time working in Auckland, Melbourne and Rotorua, opened the incredibly popular & successful 'Relish' in Tutanekai St, Rotorua. In between leaving Rotorua and opening 'The Woody' Matt contracted himself out with time at the exceptional Vivace and La Zeppa in Auckland City. His passion for food is only rivalled by his attention for detail and need to ensure every meal is as great as the last. 'Fresh and simplistic would best describe his basis for each dish, and a key focus toward an enjoyment of eating and drinking well, -regularly, rather than fine dining once in a blue-moon.

Lisa Cooper has taken on the Waikato and her changes in the service industry like a duck to water. Moving across from Rotorua and into hospitaility from Hairdressing and styling Lisa has thrived in her new environment. Probably the first to admit it was daunting taking on a new career and working hand in hand with her husband, all new facets taken on in her usual perfectionist style. With Brodie (13) loving her new schooling environment, it has made the move all the more enjoyable and worthwhile.