Team
Meet The People Shaping Ahi
Behind Ahi and Origine, a Bistro by Ahi, is a team passionate about creating exceptional dining experiences grounded in hospitality, creativity and connection. Led by acclaimed chef Ben Bayly, restaurateur Chris Martin and Beverage Director Lucile Fortuna, the team brings together talent, care and a shared commitment to celebrating Aotearoa New Zealand through thoughtful food, drinks and warm Kiwi hospitality.
Meet The People Shaping Ahi & Origine, a Bistro by 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. In 2026, he was recognised with the MICHELIN Guide Mindful Voices Award, celebrating his contribution to a more thoughtful and sustainable future for hospitality.
Through the Ahi Garden in South Auckland, Ben and his team including head gardener Tom, grow seasonal produce using organic and sustainable farming practices for Auckland restaurants, Ahi and Origine, a Bistro by Ahi.
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 three 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 Hip Group, Amano and Alma, before joining Ahi in 2021.
Now General Manager across Ahi and Origine, a Bistro by Ahi, Anna brings her trademark warmth, precision and genuine passion for exceptional service to both restaurants.
Gideon Landman
Group Executive Chef
Mikhail Shatura
Executive Chef
Executive Chef Mikhail (Mike) Shatura has been central to Ahi’s award-winning success, with the restaurant awarded One MICHELIN Star in 2026 and retaining Three Hats with a score of 19/20 in the Cuisine Good Food Guide 2026. Originally from Vladivostok, Russia, Shatura’s ingredient-led philosophy is grounded in simplicity and seasonality, drawing inspiration from the Ahi Garden, with a strong focus on fermentation, creativity and mentoring the next generation of chefs.
Heather Ineson
Events Manager
