Hairdressing Success Stories

Success Stories from Kiwi Professionals

Real stories from New Zealand hairdressers and barbers who've transformed their craft with the right tools. From apprentices to salon owners, discover how quality scissors make the difference.

Featured Success Story

From Apprentice to Award Winner

Emma Thompson's Journey with Ichiro Scissors

"When I started my apprenticeship at Servilles Academy, I could barely afford lunch, let alone professional scissors. A fellow student recommended Japan Scissors NZ's payment plans, and I got my first pair of Ichiro 5.5" scissors for $30 a fortnight on Afterpay.

Three years later, those same scissors helped me win the HITO Apprentice of the Year award. The precision and comfort made such a difference during long competition days. Now I'm a senior stylist at a top Auckland salon, and I've added Yasaka texturizing shears to my collection.

My advice to apprentices? Invest in quality from day one. Those Ichiro scissors paid for themselves in the confidence they gave me."

Started: Apprentice with budget scissors
Investment: $280 Ichiro starter set
Outcome: Award-winning stylist

More Inspiring Stories

Auckland Salon Transformation

Grey Lynn, Auckland

Challenge: Staff experiencing RSI from poor-quality scissors

Solution: Upgraded entire team to Juntetsu ergonomic scissors

Result: 75% reduction in hand fatigue complaints, 20% increase in bookings due to improved cutting speed

"The investment in proper tools transformed our salon culture. Happy stylists create happy clients."
- Sarah Chen, Salon Owner

Wellington Barber's Journey

Cuba Street, Wellington

Challenge: Struggling with precision fades using basic scissors

Solution: Invested in Kamisori 7" barber scissors

Result: Became go-to barber for detailed work, opened second location within 18 months

"The right scissors don't just cut hair - they cut the path to success. My Kamisori scissors are my most valuable business asset."
- Mike Davidson, Davidson's Barbershop

Christchurch Freelancer Profile

Mobile stylist, Canterbury region

Challenge: Needed versatile scissors for diverse clientele

Solution: Built collection with Ichiro 5.5" and 6.0" plus thinning shears

Result: Fully booked within 6 months, specialising in home visits for elderly clients

"Quality scissors gave me the confidence to go freelance. They handle everything from fine elderly hair to thick young locks."
- Lisa Patel, Mobile Stylist

Rural Salon Success

Hokitika, West Coast

Challenge: Limited access to quality tools and training

Solution: Japan Scissors NZ's rural support program and online consultations

Result: Only salon offering precision cutting techniques on the Coast, drawing clients from 100km radius

"Being rural doesn't mean settling for less. My Juntetsu scissors are as good as any Auckland salon's."
- Tom Williams, Coast Cuts

Apprentice to Salon Owner

Hamilton

Journey: Started as struggling apprentice in 2018

First Purchase: Mina starter set on payment plan

Now: Owns two salons, employs 8 stylists, provides Ichiro scissors to all staff

"I remember counting coins for my first real scissors. Now I ensure my team starts with quality tools. It's about paying it forward."
- Aroha Mitchell, Mitchell Hair Group

The Numbers Tell the Story

87%

Report increased job satisfaction after upgrading scissors

65%

See reduction in hand/wrist pain with ergonomic handles

45%

Increase cutting speed with sharper scissors

92%

Say quality scissors boosted their confidence

*Based on survey of 200 NZ hairdressers and barbers, 2024

Watch Their Stories

Video testimonials from professionals across New Zealand sharing their scissor journey.

Emma's Apprentice Story

3:45

Mike's Barber Evolution

4:20

Rural Salon Success

5:15

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