The Australian Hair Industry Awards (AHIA’s) has announced some exciting changes for their 2024 event, with a particular focus on New Zealand based salon owners and hairdressers. The AHIA’s, created by the Mocha Group in 2012, are now in their 13th year and continue to be a prestigious award platform within the industry.

One of the major changes for the upcoming AHIA’s Creative awards is the introduction of two new categories specifically for New Zealand hairdressers. The AHIA New Zealand North Island Hairdresser of the Year and AHIA New Zealand South Island Hairdresser of the Year categories will provide more local talent with the opportunity to showcase their skills and creativity on a national stage. These new categories will complement existing ones such as AHIA Apprentice of the Year and AHIA Emerging Stylist of the Year.

The second significant change for the AHIA’s Creative awards is a more streamlined approach to the entry process. Entrants will now focus primarily on submitting an award-winning hair collection, with a reduced emphasis on written components. This change allows for more creativity and innovation to shine through in each entry, with the use of wefts, wigs, extensions, and hairpieces encouraged across all categories.

Current AHIA New Zealand Hairdresser of the Year, Danny Pato, who has won the award three times, is excited to see more emerging talent from New Zealand step forward and showcase their skills. Pato highlights the valuable experience that the AHIA’s offer, from the creative process to the impact on his own business.

Overall, the AHIA’s Creative awards are evolving to better support and celebrate the incredible talent within the industry, with a specific focus on highlighting the creativity and skills of New Zealand based hairdressers. The 2024 AHIA’s promises to be an exciting event, showcasing the best of the best in the hair industry.

IMPORTANT DATES TO SAVE

ENTRY DEADLINE 28/03/24

FINALISTS ANNOUNCED 06/05/24

GALA NIGHT 01/07/24

Entries are open now and all entrants should download the Category Description, rules and regs, AHIA Awards Path and individual category kits for further information at www.ahiacreative.awardsplatform.com