Natasha Bird

Salon: M>phosis, Napier
Years in the industry: 17
Age: 35 and loving it
Star sign: Aquarius

I never knew any hairdressers and my mum always cut my hair. In fact my first visit to a salon went really badly. That’s when I realised it was what I wanted to do. I remember constantly saying to people “I’m going to be a hairdresser and actually listen to what people want”. It made me realise it was something I always wanted to do and explained why all my dolls got haircuts.

I did my training in Napier, at the salon that was the best in the Bay at the time. I even worked voluntarily to get a job there. I did my off-job training at HB Polytechnic (now known as EIT Hawkes Bay) and I also did the Vardering Course in London when I started working there. I’ve done lots of other courses over the years, it is really important to keep training.

Asking what I like most about my job is like asking what leg or arm is my favourite. I love it all! Variety is the spice of life. I spent time as a stylist and really missed doing color. For me it’s all about the total look.

The best piece of advice I ever received was to always follow my gut. It came from Maria Norrie, an amazing women and client from my past. I’m sure she wasn’t the person who invented it but she was the first to say it to me.

The only thing my parents agreed on is that I shouldn’t be a hairdresser. So I went to work on a cruise ship and it wasn’t anything like I thought it would be. I became a hairdresser anyway and showed them how rewarding it can be and how intelligent people become. I learned it’s okay to walk away.

The biggest opportunity I’ve taken advantage of was moving to London to follow my goal of working for Toni & Guy. I’d do it again in a heartbeat. In fact I did. I did my two years and then went back after a year away.

If I could be anyone in the world for a day I would be Vidal Sassoon 30 years ago. He was the cutting edge of hairdressing. Imagine being part of that!!

I believe the best place for young people to complete an apprenticeship is in a salon. It is not an industry for people who think it is their only option, or that it is all glamour and no hard work. It is hard work but so rewarding if you give it your all.

My best piece advice for someone new to the industry is to not take no for an answer. If you want it, do whatever it takes.

My first hairdressing boss Sarah Taylor is both a personal and professional mentor for me. I remember how important it was (and still is) for me to please her. She is an amazing hairdresser and person. She traveled and worked overseas and encouraged me to do the same.