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 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 is my life’s work.
Sonna
Leader in Business Development
Sonna is the co-founder of Aurum and a driving force behind the scenes, working alongside his
wife, Ria, to lead and support both the barber and stylist teams.
With a genuine passion for the industry, Sonna plays an active role in team education and
thrives in the business development side of the salon. His leadership is rooted in a deep sense of
care, he sees the Aurum team as whānau and is committed to providing the support, tools, and
motivation each person needs to grow and succeed.
Sonna’s natural ability to uplift those around him has been instrumental in Aurum’s success. He
brings encouragement, clarity, and strength to the team—always leading with heart and
intention.
As Ria says, “He makes me brave.”
Leader in Business Development
Sonna is the co-founder of Aurum and a driving force behind the scenes, working alongside his
wife, Ria, to lead and support both the barber and stylist teams.
With a genuine passion for the industry, Sonna plays an active role in team education and
thrives in the business development side of the salon. His leadership is rooted in a deep sense of
care, he sees the Aurum team as whānau and is committed to providing the support, tools, and
motivation each person needs to grow and succeed.
Sonna’s natural ability to uplift those around him has been instrumental in Aurum’s success. He
brings encouragement, clarity, and strength to the team—always leading with heart and
intention.
As Ria says, “He makes me brave.”
Mercy - AWAY ON MATERNITY LEAVE
Senior Stylist | Blonde & Balayage Specialist
Winner of NZ Apprentice Hairdresser of the Year 2020
Mercy is a senior stylist and a key leader at Aurum, bringing over seven years of experience and
a true passion for creative hair artistry.
Specialising in transformative blondes and balayage, Mercy is known for delivering stunning,
high-impact results that leave her clients feeling confident and refreshed. Her artistry,
combined with technical precision, makes her a go-to for those seeking both subtle
enhancements and bold transformations.
Beyond her skills behind the chair, Mercy’s vibrant personality and infectious sense of humour
bring warmth and energy to the salon. Whether she’s perfecting a seamless blonde or crafting a
daring new look, her creativity shines through in every style.
Her dedication to personalised, high-quality experiences makes her an invaluable part of the
Aurum team.
Senior Stylist | Blonde & Balayage Specialist
Winner of NZ Apprentice Hairdresser of the Year 2020
Mercy is a senior stylist and a key leader at Aurum, bringing over seven years of experience and
a true passion for creative hair artistry.
Specialising in transformative blondes and balayage, Mercy is known for delivering stunning,
high-impact results that leave her clients feeling confident and refreshed. Her artistry,
combined with technical precision, makes her a go-to for those seeking both subtle
enhancements and bold transformations.
Beyond her skills behind the chair, Mercy’s vibrant personality and infectious sense of humour
bring warmth and energy to the salon. Whether she’s perfecting a seamless blonde or crafting a
daring new look, her creativity shines through in every style.
Her dedication to personalised, high-quality experiences makes her an invaluable part of the
Aurum team.
Georgia
Lead Stylists | International Stylist | Educator | Colourist
Georgia is a cornerstone of Aurum – a long-standing senior stylist, educator, and internationally
experienced professional whose passion and dedication have helped shape the very foundation
of our salon.
Our story with Georgia began in 2014, when I was a new and nervous salon owner taking a
chance on a determined young apprentice. Georgia’s drive, resilience, and talent quickly proved
invaluable—not only securing her place on the team but also playing a key role in the evolution
of Aurum into the renowned training salon it is today. As my very first apprentice, she became
part of the heart and soul of this business.
Georgia went on to spend over five years in Australia, excelling in a fast-paced city salon and
serving as an educator for Paul Mitchell. After starting a family, she returned home to Dunedin
—and we were lucky enough to welcome her back to Aurum, where she continues to thrive and
lead with expertise, warmth, and a deep commitment to her craft.
JJ
Lead Barber | Educator
With his sharp skills and welcoming presence, JJ brings both talent and great energy to the
barbershop. Known for his precision cuts and modern style, he takes the time to connect with
every client—making each visit personal and memorable.
Our journey with JJ began years ago when he trained under Mason, one of Aurum Barbers'
founders and head of the local barber school. Under Mason’s mentorship, JJ honed his craft and
quickly stood out, eventually serving as class president—a testament to his leadership and
passion for barbering.
JJ’s dedication to his craft, along with his focus on creating a comfortable, client-first
experience, makes him a standout addition to the team. He’s all about crafting personalised
looks that reflect each client’s style and leave them feeling confident and cared for.
Lead Barber | Educator
With his sharp skills and welcoming presence, JJ brings both talent and great energy to the
barbershop. Known for his precision cuts and modern style, he takes the time to connect with
every client—making each visit personal and memorable.
Our journey with JJ began years ago when he trained under Mason, one of Aurum Barbers'
founders and head of the local barber school. Under Mason’s mentorship, JJ honed his craft and
quickly stood out, eventually serving as class president—a testament to his leadership and
passion for barbering.
JJ’s dedication to his craft, along with his focus on creating a comfortable, client-first
experience, makes him a standout addition to the team. He’s all about crafting personalised
looks that reflect each client’s style and leave them feeling confident and cared for.
Kororia
Manaakitanga Client Support | Salon Coordinator
Meet Kororia – our amazing Salon Coordinator and the heart behind the front desk at Aurum.
Kororia is here to ensure everything runs smoothly, from managing day-to-day operations to
providing outstanding support to both clients and our team. Whether she’s assisting with
washes and blow-dries or handling appointments with precision and care, she helps create a
seamless, stress-free experience for everyone who walks through our doors.
With her warmth, kindness, and keen eye for detail, Kororia makes sure every visit feels special
from your first hello to your final look in the mirror.
Want a peek behind the scenes and a few good laughs? Follow her on Instagram at
@behind_thedesk for a glimpse into the daily magic at Aurum.
Julia
Emerging Stylist - Final Year.
After completing her first year of hairdressing in Wanaka, Julia joined our team at the beginning
of 2025 and quickly became an integral part of what makes Aurum special. We're incredibly
grateful for her mahi, supporting our busy team while actively learning and
refining her craft.Currently in training and mentored by Ria and our expert senior stylists, Julia
is taking clients for all services and offers Apprentice Packages at special training prices.
Passionate, dedicated, and full of potential, she’s a fantastic choice if you’re looking to
experience the Aurum standard at a more accessible rate. All services are guided and overseen
by our senior team to ensure beautiful results and a supportive, high-quality experience.
Koda
Emerging Stylist - Final Year
Now entering the final year of her hairdressing apprenticeship, Koda brings a strong foundation
of experience and talent to the salon floor. A natural colourist with a flair for creating beautiful
results, she’s also well-versed in keratin smoothing treatments. Under the mentorship of the
Aurum team, Koda is excited to take her skills to the next level and continue growing as a
stylist.
She’s looking forward to welcoming new clients and building her clientele here at Aurum.
Emerging Stylist - Final Year
Now entering the final year of her hairdressing apprenticeship, Koda brings a strong foundation
of experience and talent to the salon floor. A natural colourist with a flair for creating beautiful
results, she’s also well-versed in keratin smoothing treatments. Under the mentorship of the
Aurum team, Koda is excited to take her skills to the next level and continue growing as a
stylist.
She’s looking forward to welcoming new clients and building her clientele here at Aurum.