Hana Kim – A journey of culture, courage, and community through food
My name is Hana Kim, and I’m the director of Utsugi Hospitality and the owner of Tinco Café, a small café located in the Kmart foyer in Queenstown Central. I’ve lived in New Zealand for nearly a decade, and I’ve been working as a chef here for close to 10 years. Over time, I’ve found that food is not only my profession - it’s my language, my passion, and my way of connecting with people.
Originally from Seoul, South Korea, I studied Hotel and Restaurant Management at college. As part of my studies, I completed an internship at the Grand Hyatt Seoul, where I learned the true meaning of hospitality. That experience inspired me to work abroad, and I soon took a position at a hotel in Singapore. It was the busiest and most vibrant time of my life - and it sparked my desire to see more of the world.
In Singapore, I met my husband, a Japanese colleague working in the same hotel. We got married and later moved to Tokyo, where we raised our first child together. A few years later, we decided to move to New Zealand in search of a better balance between work, family, and a slower pace of life.
After settling in New Zealand, I decided to pursue my long-held dream of becoming a professional chef. I studied culinary arts in Auckland, where I learned not only the technical skills of cooking but also the importance of creativity and storytelling through food. During my time there, I had the opportunity to participate in the NZ Young Chef competitions, both in domestic and international categories - and was fortunate enough to receive recognition in both. It was a humbling experience that encouraged me to keep growing.
Starting over as a migrant woman in a new country wasn’t easy. I had no local connections and was raising young children while trying to build a career. But I had a dream - and I was determined to make it real. Inspired by my mother who ran a restaurant for many years, I found strength in the kitchen and comfort in sharing food that reminded me of home.
Now, I run Tinco Café in Queenstown. It’s a small space, but a very special one. Locals and tourists alike gather here - not just for coffee or pastries, but for conversation, connection, and community. I love listening to people’s stories, hearing about their travels, and sometimes even giving tips about Queenstown. These casual chats often lead to meaningful relationships, and they are what fuel me every day.
At Tinco, I serve Asian-inspired drinks and baked goods that reflect the blend of Korean, Japanese, and Kiwi cultures. The café has become a reflection of my identity and a space where people feel welcome. Despite being tucked away in a shopping centre, it has grown into a beloved spot for many.
Beyond the café, I am also the leader of the Queenstown Korean Association. I organise cultural events like Korean Day, traditional drumming (samulnori) workshops, and food-sharing gatherings. These programs help bring people together and especially support children from multicultural families in embracing their heritage.
One of the proudest moments in my culinary journey was contributing my kimchi recipe to Familiar Foods (Treats of Aotearoa), a national cookbook celebrating food from diverse cultures. Sharing Korean traditions through food is a deep source of joy for me.
My signature dishes are kimchi and dumplings - warm, savory, and handmade with care. They remind me of family gatherings, holidays, and childhood comfort. I’ve perfected my recipes over the years, and now I’m preparing to launch a catering business focused on Asian food, with Korean soul and Japanese precision.
I’ve found a beautiful kitchen in Arrowtown that feels just right for this next chapter. Soon, Queenstown locals will be able to enjoy freshly prepared kimchi, dumplings, and meals made with love and tradition.
To other migrant women thinking about starting something new: you don’t have to wait for the perfect time. You don’t need to have everything figured out. Just start. Even a tiny step forward is powerful. There were moments I felt lost or not good enough - but each challenge made me stronger, and every small success gave me confidence.
You are more capable than you know. Be kind to yourself, believe in your story, and never underestimate the quiet strength that comes from showing up, day after day.
I’m proud to be part of this vibrant Queenstown community, and I look forward to continuing to grow, learn, and share - one plate, one person, and one moment at a time.
