The NZ Beauty Expo, held last month in Auckland New Zealand, reported a “fantastic” turnout of exhibitors and visitors, despite the current economic climate.
The event showcased the latest products, equipment and services for the professional beauty and spa industry in New Zealand.
This was the fourth show since the expo’s inception in 2003, and organisers, MRA Events, report that exhibitors did not disappoint the crowds with stunning stands and the very latest products, equipment and demonstrations on display.
The business seminars and industry updates held across the weekend, hosted by industry experts, motivated and empowered attendees.
The Triple Challenge Competition took place on the Saturday, with this year’s entrants asked to create a character from a movie, or their favourite musician. Scooping all three categories in the nails, makeup and hair, as well as the overall grand prize was “Cruella de Ville” (pictured), put together by The Edge Beauty Studio in Wanganui. Second place-getters were “Edward Scissorhands” from Studio 21 in Christchurch and “Lady Gaga” from Exquisite Total Image in Rotorua.
On Saturday night, the NZ Beauty Awards were held at a prestigious black tie event, hosted by celebrity guests Shane and Nerida Cortese. The event was opened with Nerida Cortese and Aaron Gilmore (from the New Zealand version of TV show, Dancing with the Stars) performing a dramatic paso doble on the dancefloor.
Shane Cortese, from TV comedy/drama, Outrageous Fortune, officially welcomed guests and was followed by up-and-coming young singer Anthony Utama, who performed his poignant rendition of ‘The Prayer’.
Award winners on the night were:
Best Student: Anneke Groenewald, Eastern Institute of Technology, Napier
Best Thuerapist: Anna Robinson, Annasplanet, New Plymouth
Best New Business: Exhale Spa, Kapiti
Best Spa: Jouvence Beauty Institute, Christchurch
Best Clinic: Chrysalis Emerge Beautiful, Whangaparaoa
Maria Robins from MRA Events said she was delighted with the level of attendance at both the expo and awards dinner.
“Given the year we are in, the turnout from both exhibitors and attendees both from here and overseas was fantastic, with many new New Zealand and Australian exhibitors showcasing – and even one exhibitor coming from as far away as Italy. This was a very successful event for the industry as a whole and one that New Zealand can be justifiably proud of.”