I’ll be in Queenstown soon and have one night set aside for a proper fine dining experience. I’m currently deciding between Rātā, Amisfield Bistro, and Essence.

I’m particularly interested in hearing from locals or anyone who has dined at these recently.

Amisfield is especially intriguing, although I’m aware the executive chef left/was let go a few months ago. For anyone who has been since the change, has it had any noticeable impact on the food, service, or overall experience? Is it still the same level it was previously?

For context, I’m a pretty serious food lover, so I’m less concerned about simply having a “nice dinner” and more interested in the quality and creativity of the food, service, wine program, atmosphere, and overall experience.

If you had one night and could choose only one, which would you pick? And are there any other Queenstown restaurants I should seriously consider instead?

Would particularly love to hear from people who have been recently, rather than older reviews.

Throwaway for obvious reasons. I'm hoping to get some perspective on my situation before I decide on next steps.

Background

Ontario employee (remote, working from BC) currently on maternity/parental leave. My employment started in September 2024 and my expected return to work date is June 1, 2026.

The Timeline

• January 15: Reached out to my direct manager to discuss my return. Was told I could only go through HR and to reach out closer to my return date.
• March 9: Contacted HR asking about the status of my role and whether there was any flexibility for a part-time return. Was told I'd have an answer in a couple of weeks.
• March 26, April 9, April 28: Followed up each time. No substantive response.
• May 4: Received an email from an HR Coordinator attaching a termination letter dated May 1, 2026 — while I am still on leave.

What the Letter Says

The letter states that due to "changes to internal structure" and not using CRM my position has been eliminated. It says my role will not exist as of June 1 (my return date). It acknowledges I'm on maternity leave, says there's no immediate impact, but that upon my return assuming no roles are available my employment will end. It also suggests I browse internal job postings and offers to explore severance if I'd like to do so before returning.

My Employment Agreement

My agreement is governed by Ontario law and includes a termination clause that limits my entitlement on a without-cause termination to ESA minimums plus one additional week. There is also a one-year non-compete covering all of Canada and non-solicitation clauses which I am hearing are not able to enforce.

TL;DR: Received termination letter while on maternity leave. Employer says role eliminated because they moved away from CRM, but my duties are business functions that exist regardless of the software. Months of unanswered questions preceded the notice. Employment agreement tries to cap severance at ESA + 1 week. Looking for perspective on my rights and whether the role elimination justification holds up legally.

My Specific Questions

• Does my employer have an obligation to reinstate me to a comparable role, and does that burden fall on them rather than me to identify options?
• Is it legal to give notice of termination while an employee is on maternity/parental leave in Ontario?
• If the underlying work of my role still exists (just done differently or by someone else), does the role elimination justification fall apart legally?
• Can the termination clause in my contract actually limit me to ESA + 1 week, or are there grounds to challenge it?
• Given I work from BC but my contract is governed by Ontario law — which province's legislation applies?

I have not signed anything, have not agreed to any severance, and have documented the full timeline in writing. Happy to answer any questions. Thank you in advance.