Born in Hastings and raised in Wairoa, Paora was around cooking from an early age with memories of time spent at the Ponderosa fish and chip opened by his grandparents over 60 years ago. Jumping straight into the food industry after High School, Paora studied cookery at the Eastern Institute of Technology and has worked at highly acclaimed restaurants; Mister D, Bistronomy, Huka Lodge, Ormlie Lodge and Elephant Hill. It was the location and style of the restaurant that drew him to Clearview Estate. He envisioned an ever-changing menu of foods that celebrate seasonality, showcasing ingredients within a familiar and rustic setting. Paora is inspired by what is around him. He is always searching to see what is available, a constant researcher driven by his passion to forage in his surroundings, be it on the land or sea. An aspirational chef, Paora has an abundance of ideas that he brings to the table at Clearview Estate