Team.
Meet The People Shaping Ahi.
Behind Ahi is a team passionate about creating exceptional dining experiences grounded in hospitality, creativity, and connection. Led by acclaimed chef Ben Bayly and restaurateur Chris Martin, and Beverage Director Lucile Fortuna, the team at Ahi brings together talent, care, and a shared commitment to celebrating Aotearoa through thoughtful food and service.
Meet The People Shaping Ahi
Ben Bayly
Chef & Owner
Born and raised in the farming community of Te Awamutu in the Waikato, Ben Bayly’s love of food was shaped early by the land and seasons around him. He spent almost a decade refining his craft in world-class kitchens across France, Italy and the UK before returning home to Aotearoa. Now one of New Zealand’s most respected chefs, Ben is known for his commitment to local produce, nurturing talent, and championing New Zealand food culture. Through Ahi Organic Gardens in South Auckland, his team grows seasonal produce for his Auckland restaurants.
Chris Martin
Front Of House & Owner
Originally from Melbourne, Chris moved to Auckland in 2015 with Lucile. He has managed venues for the past 20 years across Australia, the UK, and NZ, including Vue de Monde in Melbourne and The Ledbury in Notting Hill. New Zealand is now home for Chris, Lucile and their 3 kids. Dedicated to the heart of hospitality, Chris focuses on creating meaningful experiences, telling stories, and ensuring all guests have fun. “Hospitality is a privilege, and I love what I do.”
Lucile Fortuna
Co-Owner &
Beverage Director
Anna Haines
General Manager
Anna’s hospitality journey spans more than 25 years across some of Auckland’s most iconic dining destinations. She cut her teeth at O’Connell Street Bistro and played a key role in the relaunch of Hotel DeBrett, before joining the acclaimed Meredith’s. In 2011 she returned to the city to help launch The Grill by Sean Connolly, rising to Operations Manager across both The Grill and Gusto. Her career has since included leadership roles at Hipgroup, Amano and Alma, before joining Ahi in 2021. Now General Manager at Ahi, Anna is celebrated for her warmth, precision, and genuine passion for exceptional service.
Gideon Landman
Group Executive Chef
Mikhail Shatura
Executive Chef
Executive Chef Mikhail (Mike) Shatura has been central to Ahi’s award-winning success, earning Best Metropolitan Restaurant, Best Drinks List and two Chef Hats from the Good Food Guide. Originally from Vladivostok, Russia, Shatura’s ingredient-led philosophy draws on simplicity, seasonality and Ahi’s organic garden, with a strong focus on fermentation, creativity and mentoring the next generation of chefs.
Heather Ineson
Events Manager
