Ria
Aurum Lighthouse Keeper
From the moment I picked up a pair of scissors, I knew hairdressing was more than just a
profession - it was a calling. For over 17 years, I have dedicated my craft to transforming not just
hair but the confidence and self-perception of every client who sits in my chair. But my journey
is more than just styling, it is about creating a space where people feel seen, heard, and
empowered.
As the founders of Aurum, Sonna and I have built more than a salon; we have cultivated a
community. A place where hairstylists and barbers aren’t just workers they're artists, leaders,
and future educators. My passion isn’t just in perfecting a blonde balayage or sculpting curls to
their fullest potential; it’s in mentoring the next generation of stylists, teaching them not only
technique but also self-belief, resilience, and business acumen.
My approach is deeply personal, blending technical expertise with an intuitive understanding of
how hair connects to identity. Whether it’s embracing natural curls, guiding a bold
transformation, or crafting a custom colour that feels like it was always meant to be, I see hair
as a medium for self-expression.
My mission is clear: to elevate the industry, to honour the artistry, and to empower every stylist
and client who walks through my doors.
Because at the heart of it all, hairdressing isn’t just about what’s on your head it’s about how
you feel when you leave my chair. And that? That is my life’s work.
Aurum Lighthouse Keeper
From the moment I picked up a pair of scissors, I knew hairdressing was more than just a
profession - it was a calling. For over 17 years, I have dedicated my craft to transforming not just
hair but the confidence and self-perception of every client who sits in my chair. But my journey
is more than just styling, it is about creating a space where people feel seen, heard, and
empowered.
As the founders of Aurum, Sonna and I have built more than a salon; we have cultivated a
community. A place where hairstylists and barbers aren’t just workers they're artists, leaders,
and future educators. My passion isn’t just in perfecting a blonde balayage or sculpting curls to
their fullest potential; it’s in mentoring the next generation of stylists, teaching them not only
technique but also self-belief, resilience, and business acumen.
My approach is deeply personal, blending technical expertise with an intuitive understanding of
how hair connects to identity. Whether it’s embracing natural curls, guiding a bold
transformation, or crafting a custom colour that feels like it was always meant to be, I see hair
as a medium for self-expression.
My mission is clear: to elevate the industry, to honour the artistry, and to empower every stylist
and client who walks through my doors.
Because at the heart of it all, hairdressing isn’t just about what’s on your head it’s about how
you feel when you leave my chair. And that? That is my life’s work.
Sonna
Leader in Business Development
Sonna is the co-founder of Aurum and plays a pivotal role in helping his wife, Ria, manage the
barber & hairstylist team. With a deep passion for the industry, Sonna not only participates in
team education but also thrives in the business development side of Aurum.
He is dedicated to motivating the team, viewing the staff as part of his whānau, and ensuring
they have the tools and support to succeed professionally. Sonna's contributions have been
essential to Aurum's success. He has a natural ability to make those around him feel
encouraged
and valued, and he takes great pride in helping each team member unleash their full potential.
As Ria says, "He makes me brave."
Leader in Business Development
Sonna is the co-founder of Aurum and plays a pivotal role in helping his wife, Ria, manage the
barber & hairstylist team. With a deep passion for the industry, Sonna not only participates in
team education but also thrives in the business development side of Aurum.
He is dedicated to motivating the team, viewing the staff as part of his whānau, and ensuring
they have the tools and support to succeed professionally. Sonna's contributions have been
essential to Aurum's success. He has a natural ability to make those around him feel
encouraged
and valued, and he takes great pride in helping each team member unleash their full potential.
As Ria says, "He makes me brave."
Mercy
Senior Stylist | Blonde & Balayage Specialist
Winner of NZ Apprentice Hairdresser of the Year 2020
Mercy is one of our talented senior stylists and a key company director, bringing over 7 years of
experience to Aurum. With a true passion for creative hair artistry, she specialises in
transformative blonde and balayage techniques, consistently delivering stunning results that
leave her clients feeling amazing.
Known for her incredible sense of humour and her vibrant, bubbly personality, Mercy’s
creativity shines in every style she creates—whether she’s perfecting a flawless blonde or
taking on a bold new look. Her dedication to her craft and her ability to deliver personalised,
beautiful hair experiences make her an invaluable member of our team.
Senior Stylist | Blonde & Balayage Specialist
Winner of NZ Apprentice Hairdresser of the Year 2020
Mercy is one of our talented senior stylists and a key company director, bringing over 7 years of
experience to Aurum. With a true passion for creative hair artistry, she specialises in
transformative blonde and balayage techniques, consistently delivering stunning results that
leave her clients feeling amazing.
Known for her incredible sense of humour and her vibrant, bubbly personality, Mercy’s
creativity shines in every style she creates—whether she’s perfecting a flawless blonde or
taking on a bold new look. Her dedication to her craft and her ability to deliver personalised,
beautiful hair experiences make her an invaluable member of our team.
Georgia
International Stylist | Educator | Colourist
Georgia is truly a cornerstone of Aurum, serving as our long-time senior stylist, company
director, educator, and international stylist. Her passion and commitment have been key in
shaping the strong foundation of our business.
In 2014, when I was a new and nervous salon owner, I took a chance on a determined apprentice
—Georgia. Her drive and perseverance not only earned her a spot on our team but also inspired
the growth of Aurum into the renowned training salon it is today. As my first apprentice, she
quickly became a vital part of the heart and soul of our business.
With a wealth of experience, Georgia spent over five years hairdressing in Australia, where she
worked as an educator for Paul Mitchell, excelled in a busy city salon. Starting a family she
returned home to Dunedin and we welcomed her back to Aurum where she is absolutely
thriving.
International Stylist | Educator | Colourist
Georgia is truly a cornerstone of Aurum, serving as our long-time senior stylist, company
director, educator, and international stylist. Her passion and commitment have been key in
shaping the strong foundation of our business.
In 2014, when I was a new and nervous salon owner, I took a chance on a determined apprentice
—Georgia. Her drive and perseverance not only earned her a spot on our team but also inspired
the growth of Aurum into the renowned training salon it is today. As my first apprentice, she
quickly became a vital part of the heart and soul of our business.
With a wealth of experience, Georgia spent over five years hairdressing in Australia, where she
worked as an educator for Paul Mitchell, excelled in a busy city salon. Starting a family she
returned home to Dunedin and we welcomed her back to Aurum where she is absolutely
thriving.
JJ
Lead Barber | Educator
We’re thrilled to welcome JJ to the Aurum team! With his impressive skill set and inviting
energy, he’s a fantastic addition to the barbershop. Known for his precision cuts and modern
style, JJ takes the time to connect with every client, making each visit a truly memorable
experience.
We first met JJ years ago when he was Mason’s protege. (Mason, one of the founders of 'Aurum
Barbers' and the leader of the local barber school, played a key role in shaping JJ’s journey.)
From there, JJ went on to serve as class president, showing his natural leadership and passion
for the craft.
His dedication to both barbering and creating a welcoming, comfortable atmosphere makes him
a standout on our team. JJ is all about designing personalised looks that not only suit his client's
style but leave them feeling truly cared for.
Lead Barber | Educator
We’re thrilled to welcome JJ to the Aurum team! With his impressive skill set and inviting
energy, he’s a fantastic addition to the barbershop. Known for his precision cuts and modern
style, JJ takes the time to connect with every client, making each visit a truly memorable
experience.
We first met JJ years ago when he was Mason’s protege. (Mason, one of the founders of 'Aurum
Barbers' and the leader of the local barber school, played a key role in shaping JJ’s journey.)
From there, JJ went on to serve as class president, showing his natural leadership and passion
for the craft.
His dedication to both barbering and creating a welcoming, comfortable atmosphere makes him
a standout on our team. JJ is all about designing personalised looks that not only suit his client's
style but leave them feeling truly cared for.
Hannah
Senior Stylist | Educator | Creative Cutter
Hannah is an incredibly talented senior stylist with more than 12 years of experience in the
industry. Her passion for creative cutting shines through in every style she crafts, tailoring each
look to perfectly highlight her clients' features and personalities.
Hannah is also an expert colourist who is the go to for creating stunning coppers and blondes as
well as creative colouring.
Hannah’s commitment to both her craft and our core values of exceptional client care sets her
apart. Her expertise and innovative approach make her an invaluable member of our team, both
as a stylist and an educator.
Senior Stylist | Educator | Creative Cutter
Hannah is an incredibly talented senior stylist with more than 12 years of experience in the
industry. Her passion for creative cutting shines through in every style she crafts, tailoring each
look to perfectly highlight her clients' features and personalities.
Hannah is also an expert colourist who is the go to for creating stunning coppers and blondes as
well as creative colouring.
Hannah’s commitment to both her craft and our core values of exceptional client care sets her
apart. Her expertise and innovative approach make her an invaluable member of our team, both
as a stylist and an educator.
Megan
Senior Stylist | Blonde Specialist
As Megan worked hard through her apprenticeship it was a life goal of hers to work at Aurum
and here she is today one of our talented dedicated senior stylists - a key part of the Aurum
team and living proof of her determination, expertise and drive.
Megan’s caring and approachable nature shines through in everything she does, making sure
every client feels truly seen and leaves with a personalised, top-tier experience.
Her journey is nothing short of inspiring. After taking time to focus on being a dedicated
mother, Megan returned to complete the training she started over ten years ago, quickly
advancing and hitting impressive milestones along the way.
Megan specialises in creating gorgeous modern blondes and flawless balayage's, so if you’re
dreaming of
natural, beautiful colour, she’s the stylist you want.
Kororia
Manaakitanga Client Support | Salon Coordinator
We’re excited to introduce you to the wonderful Kororia, who’s joined our team as the perfect
addition for all your administrative support and client care needs.
As our Salon Coordinator, Kororia keeps things running smoothly behind the scenes, managing
day-to-day operations with ease. She’s always ready to lend a hand, whether it’s assisting our
stylists with washing or blow-drying, ensuring your visit is as seamless as possible.
Kororia’s warmth, kindness, and attention to detail make her the ideal person to help guide you
through your experience with us, ensuring everything is nothing short of exceptional from start
to finish.
Feel like a laugh and seeing behind the scenes at Aurum? Follow Kororia's page -
behind_thedesk on Instagram!
Julia
Apprentice Hairstylist - 2nd Year.
Meet Julia – our newest rising star at Aurum. After completing her first year of hairdressing in Wanaka, Julia joined
our team at the beginning of 2025 and instantly became an essential part of what makes Aurum stand out.
We are so grateful for her mahi, ensuring our big team is supported while she learns our craft and builds her experience.
Currently in training and mentored closely by Ria and our expert senior team, Julia is set for an exciting year of
growth in 2025. Passionate, dedicated, and full of, she’s the perfect choice if you’re looking to experience the Aurum standard at a more affordable rate.
All services are guided and overseen by our senior stylists to ensure beautiful results and a supportive learning journey.