Overview
Sir Desmond John Britten KNZM, commonly known as Des Britten (1939–13 February 2020), was a prominent figure in New Zealand hospitality, media and faith communities. He combined a public life as a restaurateur and broadcaster with ordained ministry and long‑term social service in Wellington. His career spanned several decades and several distinct roles—chef and cookbook author, television and radio presenter, vicar and city missioner.
Career in hospitality and media
Britten established a reputation in the restaurant world as proprietor of The Coachman, a Wellington dining venue he operated for nearly three decades. Parallel to his work in hospitality, he brought cookery to a wide audience through television and radio. In the 1970s he presented two notable television cooking programmes, Thyme for Cookery and Bon Appetit, and he also contributed to broadcasting and published cookbooks aimed at home cooks.
Roles and achievements
- Restaurateur and culinary author: long‑running owner of The Coachman and author of cookery material (cookbooks).
- Broadcaster: presenter on television and radio during the 1970s and beyond (television career).
- Anglican priest and pastor: ordained in 1983 and served as vicar of St Barnabas Roseneath in Wellington.
- Community leader: Wellington City Missioner for 17 years, overseeing outreach and social services in the city.
Ministry and public service
Britten was ordained as an Anglican priest in 1983. His parish ministry included service as vicar of St Barnabas Roseneath, and he later moved into a leadership role with the Wellington City Mission, which provides support to people experiencing hardship. His combination of public profile and pastoral work made him a well‑known figure in Wellington's civic and charitable life.
Honours and later life
In recognition of his contributions to community and public life, Britten was knighted in 2012, receiving the Queen’s honour that allowed him to use the title Sir. He remained active in public and church affairs until his health declined. Britten died in Wellington on 13 February 2020 at the age of 80 after a period of illness; contemporary reports noted he had been treated for cancer (illness) and several outlets covered his passing in the city where he worked and ministered (Wellington reports).
Legacy and significance
Des Britten is remembered for bridging everyday hospitality and spiritual care—bringing a practical, public‑facing approach to both kitchens and charitable work. His cookery programmes and books contributed to domestic cooking culture in New Zealand, while his long tenure as City Missioner reflected a sustained commitment to social service. For more on his media work and publications see his cookery writings and archived broadcasts referenced in biographical summaries (television and radio).