Best Hair Salons in Feilding

Finding the right hair salon in a town like Feilding is about more than just a trim or a colour. It’s about trusting someone with your look and feeling comfortable in the chair. Whether you’re after a fresh cut, a bold new colour, or just a reliable place for regular maintenance, the local salon scene offers plenty of choice — from long-established favourites to newer specialists.

Feilding sits in the heart of the Manawatū-Whanganui region, and its salons tend to reflect the community: friendly, down-to-earth, and professional. But with several options to pick from, knowing what to look for can save you time, money, and a bad hair day.

What to look for when hiring a Hair Salon in Feilding

Choosing a salon isn't just about who’s closest to home or has the cheapest price. Here are the key things to consider when making your decision.

  • Qualified staff — New Zealand hairdressers should hold a recognised qualification (like the New Zealand Certificate in Hairdressing). A good salon will display staff qualifications or be happy to tell you about their training.
  • Specialisation — Some salons focus on certain services: bridal hair, curly cuts, balayage, or men’s grooming. If you have a specific need, look for a place that does it regularly.
  • Hygiene and equipment — Clean stations, properly sanitised tools, and fresh towels are non-negotiable. Don't be shy about noticing the cleanliness when you walk in.
  • Consultation process — A thorough consultation shows the stylist cares about understanding your hair type, lifestyle, and expectations. If they rush this step, consider it a red flag.
  • Online presence and reviews — Check their website, Facebook page, or Google reviews. Local Feilding Facebook groups can also be a goldmine for honest recommendations.
  • Atmosphere — Do you prefer a quiet, relaxed vibe or a buzzy, social salon? Visit or call first to get a sense of the place.

Key questions to ask before hiring

Before you book an appointment, it pays to ask a few simple questions. Most salons are happy to answer over the phone or in person.

  • “What level of experience do you have with my hair type?” — Especially important if you have curly, coily, fine, or chemically treated hair.
  • “Can I see a portfolio or photos of your recent work?” — Many salons post before-and-after shots on social media. This gives you a real idea of their skills.
  • “What products do you use, and can I buy them to take home?” — Knowing the product range helps you maintain your style between visits.
  • “How long will the appointment take?” — A simple cut might be 30 minutes; a full colour and cut could be two hours or more. Plan accordingly.
  • “What’s your cancellation policy?” — Most salons require at least 24 hours’ notice for cancellations, or you may be charged a fee.
  • “Do you offer patch tests for colour?” — If you’re having colour for the first time, a patch test 48 hours beforehand is best practice to check for allergic reactions.
  • “What payment methods do you accept?” — Some salons are cash-only or use bank transfer; others take EFTPOS or credit cards. Avoid surprises at the counter.

Tips for getting the best results

A great haircut or colour isn’t just the stylist’s job — you play a part too. Here’s how to set yourself up for success.

  • Bring pictures — A photo (or a few) of the style you want is far more helpful than describing it. But remember: everyone’s hair is different, so be open to adjustments based on your face shape and hair texture.
  • Be honest about your routine — If you only blow-dry once a week or never use heat tools, say so. Your stylist can recommend a cut that works with your real-life habits, not just your ideal morning.
  • Arrive with clean, dry hair — Unless your stylist specifically asks for wet hair, clean dry hair gives them a better view of your natural texture and any existing colour.
  • Speak up during the service — If something doesn’t feel right — the tension on your scalp, the colour looks different from what you discussed — say it early. Good stylists welcome feedback.
  • Follow aftercare advice — Ask about recommended products and how often to come back. A proper home-care routine makes your salon visit last longer.
  • Book your next appointment before you leave — Many popular Feilding salons book out weeks in advance. Lock in your next visit so you don’t miss out.

A note about costs and getting quotes

Hair salon prices in Feilding vary depending on the stylist’s experience, the salon’s location, and the services you choose. Generally, you can expect to pay more for senior stylists and less for junior or apprentice stylists. Colour services cost more than cuts, and additional treatments like toning or deep conditioning will add to the total.

Always ask for a quote before you agree to any work. A reputable salon will give you a price range after a brief chat about what you want — often over the phone or during an initial consultation. Be wary of anyone who can’t give you a rough estimate beforehand. Prices can also change if you decide to add extras on the day, so confirm the final cost before the stylist starts.

Most salons display their price list on their website or in the window. If you don’t see one, just ask. There’s no harm in comparing a couple of places — it’s your hair and your wallet.

Feilding’s salons are used to serving a loyal local clientele, so you’ll often find a warm welcome and honest advice. Take your time to find the right fit. When you find a stylist who listens and delivers consistent results, you’ve found a keeper.