Few hairdressers in New Zealand—or Australia for that matter—can claim such a string of accolades, but once again, Danny Pato of D&M Hair Design has taken home the most prestigious of titles at the Australian Hair Industry Awards.

The 2023 Australian Hair Industry Awards (Creative) winners were announced at a gala awards night on June 12, taking place at The Star, Sydney, and closing out a full weekend dedicated to hair.

Danny Pato was awarded New Zealand Hairdresser for the third straight year – the seventh across previous award platforms – while also being inducted as the latest member of the Dennis Langford Hall of Fame, for his work and commitment to the industry. The acclaimed hairdresser spoke touchingly about the power of hairdressing and how his salon work felt like finding his home.

“Moving to New Zealand as a migrant over 30 years ago, not speaking a word of English, dealing with my sexuality, the hair salon felt like home; this industry is what saved me,” he said on Instagram. “I never thought I’d be standing here today, having the honour of this title for seven years running, and now to be representing NZ in the Australian Hall of Fame – with the gravity of fellow-Kiwi Dennis Langford’s legacy in the industry. To all hairdressers out there, I urge you to follow your passion, work hard, and never give up on your dreams.”

Pato went onto thank his team, brand partner Davines, and his D&M business partner, Michael Sisaengrath, who he’s been in partnership with for 18 years.

Partnering with Hair Festival, the AHIAs capped off two stellar days of celebration – with education shows, MarketPlace stalls, parties and more, finished with awards that honoured our industry’s best.

Congratulations to Danny and the D&M team!