Buoy Salon & Spa — Local services in North Island

I am usually very hesitant to get my hair cut from anyone other than my normal hairdresser, but decided to bite the bullet as my hair was out of control and I wasn't heading back to my hometown for a while. I visited Buoy for a wash, treatment, cut and style. Firstly, when explaining what I wanted, there was some hesitancy and judgement to cut my hair the style I like it (blunt cut, and have had it cut like this for the past 1.5 years). The treatment didn't feel like it did much to moisturise my hair and was only left in for maybe 5 mins max. The cut was the most disappointing part. I wasn't asked whether I was happy with the cut at the end, as I would usually expect after a cut, and when I asked if we could take more out I was told no (knowing there was absolutely more that could come out). I left the salon with a lot of bulk still and my hair longer than I had asked for.

Now for why this is a 4 star review. Once I had decided I was going to return to have the cut fixed, I called the salon to advise I wasn't happy with the results. Eddie's service was phenomenal. There were no questions asked about why I was unhappy with the cut and finding a time for the fix up was seamless. When returning to the salon, Eddie was thankful that I had returned and so friendly and kind. I was looked after by Andrew for my cut and have absolutely no complaints. Fantastic service, amazing abilities and importantly, ensured I was happy with the cut before leaving. What really impressed me with Andrew's service was that at the end, Andrew walked me to the door which almost sheltered me from the stylist that originally cut my hair. Whether this was intentional or not, I thought this was quite thoughtful service to ensure the customer feels safe.

I understand that it is hard to have your hair cut by someone one time and be happy with it, as it takes time to develop the relationship. To me, the mark of a good salon is how they recover from disappointment. Very impressed with the recovery and if I moved to Wellington, they would be my regular. Would absolutely...

I have never written an online review for anything before but am so disappointed with the "Beautiful Hair Day" treatment I received today that I feel I need to share my experience.

I was given a voucher for this service, which is valued at $120. The entire appointment lasted between 20 and 25 minutes. The stylist applied the treatment (scalp moisturising), then asked me one minute later if I could feel it working on my scalp. I replied "no" but he had already started washing it off.

The "relaxing head massage" lasted about 2-3 minutes, mostly just the stylist holding his hands against my head in different places - not actually massaging.

The blow dry/final look was very disappointing. I have short hair which was styled to simply stick straight up at the back! The front looked okay, though overall it was a heavily textured style which I really didn't like or want. I came home straight after, rinsed the enormous amount of product out and re-styled it myself.

To be fair, I didn't speak up - but then I was never actually asked what I wanted either. I felt very rushed. I was offered a cup of tea but spilt some when my hair was quite suddenly grabbed and never got a chance to finish the rest.

On the plus side, the chairs at the basin were the most comfortable I've ever been in and the glass roof allowed a nice view of the sky…

Very disappointing overall and certainly not worth $120. I will not...

I usually wait a few days before I decide whether I'm totally thrilled with a haircut, or resign myself to waiting for it to grow out. So this review is about my very first visit to Buoy a few weeks ago on the recommendation of a friend.

So let's start from the beginning - when you call to make an appointment and even upon arrival you're greeted by the friendliest front desk attendant Eddie. Let me just say he's a darling!

And if you're a first timer like me you're kind of left wondering if you've stepped into the backstage of a glamorous fashion shoot. The layout and the atmosphere is so light and vibrant and so clean!

Possibly my favourite thing is that Andrew, my stylist, was perfectly punctual. The time at the basin left me feeling like I should make an appointment just to get my hair washed - they have luxurious massage chairs in addition to the soothing head massage you receive as part of the process.

And then let me talk about the amazing Andrew. I explained what I wanted, he Listened!! And what I have now is a sleek but edgy long pixie cut that transformed my look from a plain bob that faded into the background to getting compliments from absolutely everyone!

Thank you Andrew and Eddie! Can't wait to visit again and maybe experiment with some...