BERT VAN DE STEEG, Head Chef

Head Chef Bert van de Steeg began his culinary journey in his homeland of the Netherlands completing training and gaining experience in a range of fine dining and Michelin star restaurants.

After relocating to the other side of the world Bert has called New Zealand home for fifteen years spending time in Hamilton and Whitianga before taking up residence in the stunning location of Queenstown where he was Executive Chef of Stoneridge Estate.

Bert joined the Malo team in July 2018 and is looking forward to working with the abundance of seasonal fresh produce on offer in the region. Bert describes his methods as classic yet modern with a focus on rustic flavours using honest quality ingredients. Bert’s new menu includes simple and well-executed dishes while also being textural and bold. This year, you’ll see Bert develop an international menu with European and Dutch influences while still incorporating amazing New Zealand and local cuisine the restaurant has become renowned for.

Bert is excited to be living locally in Havelock North with his wife and two children saying the area provides so much inspiration in the way of culinary delights.

NORBERT PLATZDASCH, Restaurant Manager

Working in the hospitality industry for most of his professional life, Norbert started out in Germany operating a gastro pub as well as a night club.

After moving to NZ, Norbert managed the busy and well known restaurant Cin Cin in Auckland and later owned two cafes in Auckland and Devonport.

After his move to Christchurch Norbert worked as Assistant Food & Beverage Manager at the Crowne Plaza for a couple of years, followed by partner in opening a new restaurant inside the newly built Christchurch Art Gallery.

Moving to Nelson Norbert was Food & Beverage Manager at the Rutherford Hotel for a few years.

Due to family commitments Norbert then moved back to Auckland where he managed the Royal NZ Yacht Squadron as Food & Beverage Manager for four years only to finally being able to realize a life-long dream to work and live in the Bay. Before commencing with us at Malo, Norbert spent time at the County Hotel in Napier and Ormlie Lodge.