Tauranga hairdresser Amber Daisley has been recognised as the HITO northern apprentice of the year for hairdressing, a prestigious award that places her among the top emerging stylists in the country.

Daisley, who works at Envy Salon on Devonport Rd, received the award at the HITO graduation and awards ceremony, where apprentices and trainers from across New Zealand are recognised for excellence in their trade.

Surreal

“It’s been such a surreal experience,” Daisley said. “I absolutely love what I do, so to be recognised like this is pretty amazing.”

The HITO apprentice of the year awards are highly competitive, with entrants from salons across the upper North Island, including Auckland and Northland. Daisley said she was the only finalist from Tauranga in the northern category.

Last year she was named a finalist, before taking out the title this year after submitting a detailed video entry showcasing her work, professional development and involvement beyond the salon.

“It was a big entry,” she said. “You had to answer questions about your journey, your work and what else you do outside the job, and include videos and clips from throughout the year.”

Tauranga hairdresser Amber Daisley has been awarded the HITO northern apprentice of the year for hairdressing. Photo / David Hall

Adding to the milestone, Daisley officially qualified as a hairdresser the same day she spoke about her award, completing her apprenticeship in just three years.

“I finished my final assessment today, so I’m officially qualified,” she said. “It’s pretty awesome to wrap up the year like this.”

My family

Originally heading to university on a scholarship, Daisley said she quickly realised it wasn’t the right fit. “Hairdressing is in my family,” she said. “Once I did some work experience, I knew it was what I wanted to do.”

She credits the team at Envy Salon for their ongoing support throughout her apprenticeship.

“They’ve always been there for training, guidance and encouragement. I love where I’m working and definitely happy where I am,” she said.

Daisley also follows in her father’s footsteps – he won an apprentice of the year award during his own plastering trade training. “To take a photo together with our certificates was awesome,” she said. “I’m very grateful for the good network of people who support me.”