meet the team
some of the CRAZY family
Jules Stokes
Host - Operations - Owner
Kiwi and Christchurch born Jules has been running the iconic Thai Orchid with Jum since 2017. Wanting to continue what has been a challenging but fun adventure together, Jules is excited to bring the feeling and passion into this restaurant through friendships created, atmosphere made and having fun along the way. Pushed by a belief that Crazy Horse can make Christchurch more exciting and better place for everyone. Jules is happy when he is hanging with friends and hanging off a rock.
Jum Deerai
Host - Manager - Owner
Primarily responsible for first and lasting impressions, Jum is the face of Crazy Horse Hammersley. The current owner of Thai Orchid for the past 6 years, assisting her mother in her restaurant as a young one, Jum has the embedded Thai hospitality in her blood. Her genuine smiles are infectious and Jummi takes pleasure of turning diners into friends. Jummi is a legend trekker and loves the outdoors.
Pichai Klangkarn
Head Chef
Pichai is the Head Chef for both sibling restaurants, the Thai Orchid and Crazy Horse Hammersley. Pichai’s is responsible for keeping the consistently high quality of food. We are lucky to have his 30 years of experience of the Crazy Team. He is one of the best Thai chefs you will find in New Zealand. Pichai’s ability comes from his passion and love of cooking, hunting and fishing. Pichai is not only a great chef, but great under pressure and has a nifty foot for the Thai local sport.
TANG Bunrueang
Soux Chef
Tang has been a senior Chef and member of the Crazy Horse team for over 5 years. A talented Thai Chef whether it be in traditional or modern styles of cooking. The Mum of the kitchen Tang keeps the Crazy family and Kitchen strong and bonded. Tang works hard in the kitchen and hard on her health. It’s not unusual to see Tang walking the parks and keeping fit. 20km walks are not unusual multiple times a week!
Kristina Varbai
Host - Duty Manager - FOH
Cocktail Queen and Hostess with the Mostess. Kristina has been part of the Crazy Horse family for over 3 years and born to be in hospitality. Treats people how she would treated. Kristina will give honest, sincere & expert advice to maximise your dining experience & night out. Ask Kristina what the cocktail of the day is and you won’t be disappointed! Country or origin? You find out!
Eary
Chef
Eary came from teaching background in Thailand and moved into the kitchen with her natural love off cooking Thai food. Chef for the last 14 years and was cooking for the original owners in Erawan Thai. The expert of the Traditional Thai dishes.
Frim
Host - FOH - WAITER
Multi-talented man with his abilities and work ethic. You will see Frim all over the restaurant. - Whether it is in the Kitchen, serving food and hosting in the front. If he is not too busy running around, Frim loves to have a chat. Frim has a passion of music and is an amazing classical Guitarist and Vocalist. If you are lucky enough, you may hear Frim sing a couple of songs at the end of one of our Live Blues nights.
Sunny
Host - FOH - Waitress
Cool under pressure and quirky sense of humour makes Sunny a pleasure to have around. Sunny has probably the most appropriate name and adds to the atmosphere of the restaurant. Very good with Thai Food, so ask away!
Aum
Chef de Partie
?… Aum has made New Zealand home for the past 10 years. Originally ...
Nan
Host - FOH - Waitress
Nan’s beautiful smile will great you as you arrive. Her genuine character will make you feel good before you even sit for dinner. We can also thank Nan for some the lovely fresh vegetables and herbs. Living on a farm out of Christchurch Nan is talented in the garden yet equally enjoys the social aspect of city life.
Fon
Host - FOH - Waitress
Smiles come naturally to Fon who will give 100% to ensure you are enjoying your dining experience
Ann
FOH - WAITRESS
Ann gives a great energy in and out of the kitchen. Make sure you ask her the best way to eat the Spicy Lemon Salmon. Ann has a lovely family with 2 sons but also loves getting out and enjoying the social aspect to Crazy Horse. Fun and cheerful character and an overall great lady.
