He tangata: it is the people
Food has always been part of Lisa Levy’s life.
Born and raised in Hawke’s Bay, and the great-granddaughter of Sir James Wattie, Lisa grew up surrounded by orchards and fresh produce, with a simple connection to the land quietly shaping her appreciation for good food and community.
Her path into hospitality, like many, wasn’t planned. While studying at Victoria University, she picked up part-time work at Dockside restaurant – a move that, like many students, was more practical than purposeful. But it sparked something. Soon after, she followed her curiosity overseas, travelling through Greece before settling in London, where her career began to take shape.
In London, Lisa worked in high-end catering with Party Ingredients, delivering events for royalty and dignitaries, before moving into human resources and eventually landing a role at The Connaught Hotel in Mayfair. There, she gained a deep understanding of both people and process. While in London, working at Rules Restaurant, she met her future husband, chef Simon Levy.
Together, they shared a vision: to create a restaurant that felt personal, immersive and connected.
That vision found its home in Christchurch.
Relocating in 2013, the couple were drawn to a city in transition – a city of possibility. The hospitality scene, while smaller, felt supportive – an intimate group of owner-operators.
In 2017, they opened INATI on Hereford Street – a name gifted by Ngāi Tahu, meaning “to share”. The restaurant was designed to break down barriers between kitchen and guest, creating an experience that was intimate, where smiles and conversations could be shared.
For Lisa, it is all about people.
“People are the heart and the key to your operation,” she says. “They make your success happen.”
Lisa is now a key figure in the local hospitality community. As Canterbury Branch President of the Restaurant Association, she has helped champion the industry, contributing to national discussions while supporting local operators through both challenges and growth.
Lisa believes there is something exciting happening in Christchurch, too.
“We’ve got such fantastic produce in our region, and that’s what we like to share on the menu. We are a community that celebrates our amazing suppliers, producers, and hospitality staff – from festivals to events, restaurants to pop-ups.”
On 7 and 8 May, Inati will host a special collaboration with well-known chef Ben Bayly of Ahi.