Our distinguished judging panels!
We are very honoured to have a number of our industry leaders, bringing a wealth of experience and knowledge to our panels. They all come from different industry sectors, yet they all share the same vision of promoting best practices.
Our judging panel for the BeautyNZ Association Awards 2026 includes:
NZ Spa of the Year
Having trained at the Joyce Blok Institute 30+ years ago, Annette began her career in New Zealand before heading to Australia and then to the UK. Spreading her skills across salons, gyms and also working for herself, Annette was then employed by the NHS. This was to provide electrolysis treatments for two days a week which is where she became inspired to teach.
Annette then began teaching and writing Beauty Therapy, at The College of North West London and Barnet College. She then returned to New Zealand in 2005 with a husband and 1 child (with 2 more to come along). Upon returning she took a position teaching at The College of Beauty Therapy (now Face & Beauty). After her last child she took some time off before starting a new teaching position at Elite School of Beauty & Spa (part of the UP Education Group).
In 2017 moving into a resource development position, Annette was involved in creating the new NZQA Beauty Therapy qualifications Level 3 - 6 for Elite. 2022 saw a merge within Up Education. Annette is currently under the directive of Yoobee Colleges Ltd, where she continues developing resources across Elite and the wider group, including Cut Above and the New Zealand School of Tourism.
“ I love my job and all things beauty, education and wellness”
NZ Spa of the Year
I’m honoured to join the judging panel for Salon of the Year NZ, celebrating the talent and dedication within our beauty therapy industry. With nearly 40 years’ experience, my career has spanned business ownership, management, education, and advanced skin and body health.
I’ve owned three beauty therapy businesses, held management roles with Forme Spa Albany and About Face St Lukes, and completed their management studies programme. As a Trainer-Educator and Territory Manager with Professional Skin & Beauty, I represented Environ and Jane Iredale nationwide, delivering training to therapists and medical professionals. A highlight was being personally trained in Collagen Induction Therapy by Dr Des Fernandes and becoming NZ’s trainer for dermal medical needling.
Today, I run 360 Skin Studio, specialising in advanced dermal skin therapies such as LED, SkinPen DMN, Environ DF Electro-Sonic treatments, and Cool Peels, with a special focus on sensitive and rosacea-prone skin.
Passionate about education, I continue to attend conferences, explore clinical research, and share knowledge across the industry. Having served on the Executive Committee of the NZ Association of Registered Beauty Professionals and as an area representative, I remain committed to lifting standards and supporting our profession.
It’s a privilege to celebrate the innovation and excellence that make NZ salons and spas outstanding.
NZ Cosmetic Tattooist of the Year
Initially undertaking Cosmetic Tattooing training on the Gold Coast in 1992, Debra has over 30 years’ experience in Cosmetic Tattooing industry and has seen the industry evolve from very basic techniques in the early days through to the incredible skills available to artists today.
In more recent times Debra has been creating a professional range of products and pigments for artists throughout NZ and Australia and is proud to be the exclusive distributor for LI Pigments (USA) products and Monica Ivani Pigments within New Zealand and the Pacific Islands.
Debra continues attending advanced trainings both locally and internationally to stay up to date with the most current techniques and still enjoys providing brow, eyeliner and lip services, along with saline removal and, of course, training and mentoring.
NZ Tutor/Trainer of the Year
Emma has been in the Nail Technology industry for over 17 years, owning a Nail salon who employs qualified Technicians.
For over 13 years Emma has also been involved in teaching to NZQA standards within a private training establishment which led to her involvement in the Targeted Review of Qualifications and a part of the HITO Industry Advisory Panel for Nail Technology as well as Toitū Te Waiora reviews and consultation. Emma is an industry assessor for HITO Te Pūkenga.
Emma is an active member of the NZARP Executive Committee, becoming President in 2021 as well as holding the Nail Portfolio.
NZ Student / Apprentice of the Year
Jenny Barrow possesses extensive expertise in the beauty industry and education field, making her a highly qualified Beauty Therapist and Educator. With over 8 years of experience in the beauty industry and additional involvement in education, Jenny's focus lies in the realm of dermo-nutrition and the practical aspects of working with clients.
Jenny's personal journey of overcoming acne, which had plagued her for over 15 years, sparked her transition from education to the beauty field. Working under Janine Tait, she gained valuable knowledge and practical skills.
Currently, Jenny dedicates her time to training therapists in clinics that carry the renowned brands she represents, Bestow Beauty and Janesce Skincare. Additionally, she contributes to lecturing in beauty courses for various educational institutions across the country.
At the core of Jenny's approach is the belief that beauty encompasses a holistic perspective. She firmly advocates for industry professionals to continually strive for self-improvement not only in the areas of topical products and treatments but also in understanding the crucial role of nutrition and lifestyle factors that impact the skin's health.
NZ Therapist of the Year
Skincare has always been my passion — especially when it comes to helping therapists grow their skills, confidence, and businesses. Partnering with Dermal Supplies ANZ allows me to bring next-level education, support, and inspiration into salons, so therapists can deliver the very best results to their clients.
Since qualifying as a beauty therapist back in 2006, I’ve loved every twist and turn in this industry — from hands-on treatments to recruitment, to now focusing on education and brand growth. What really drives me is seeing therapists thrive with products and treatments that genuinely make a difference.
The best part? Re-connecting with so many talented therapists, watching their careers flourish, and sharing the tools and knowledge to help them shine — all while keeping things fun, authentic, and inspiring.
NZ Cosmetic Tattooist of the Year
Juliette, a highly experienced and skilled professional in the field of Cosmetic Tattooing, brings her expertise from her training in the UK to New Zealand. With 28 years of industry experience, Juliette has established herself as a trusted name in the beauty industry. She has a diverse range of talents, serving as a Beauty Therapist, Makeup Artist, and Cosmetic Tattooing Technician.
Juliette's clinics in Auckland, Tauranga, and Hamilton are well-known destinations for individuals seeking top-notch Cosmetic Tattooing services. Her extensive client base is a testament to her skill, professionalism, and ability to understand and meet the unique needs of each individual.
Previously, Juliette held esteemed roles as both the Business Development Manager and Training Manager for a prominent establishment in London. Her time in these positions allowed her to deepen her knowledge, stay at the forefront of industry advancements, and refine her skills. She played an integral role in training and developing aspiring Cosmetic Tattooing professionals, ensuring they were equipped with the latest techniques and expertise.
With her wealth of experience, passion for her craft, and dedication to providing exceptional service, Juliette continues to make a lasting impact in the field of Cosmetic Tattooing.
NZ Therapist of the Year
Kim has been in the professional beauty industry for 25+ years and has enjoyed seeing the evolution of beauty products and technologies over this time. Kim distributes a number of Advanced Cosmetical Skin Care Brands in New Zealand, providing education and support under the Advanced Derma Care umbrella. Kim joined the Executive Committee of the NZARBP (The New Zealand Association of Registered Beauty Professionals) to give back to the industry and provide guidance and support to students and new graduates - ensuring they are working to the highest standards from the beginning of their career. Kim is enjoying working with a team of like-minded individuals, bringing the best to the industry through positive education and guidance.
NZ Spa of the Year
Larissa has been in the Beauty Industry for a smidge over 20 years in which time she has had the pleasure of working with many inspiring colleagues and clients, and experienced the vigour’s & rewards of owning her own business.
To restore a revitalised sense of self & inner beauty through therapeutic treatments has been a passion of Larissa's throughout her career. She has specialised in MLD & Electrology and is now wanting to pass onto the new generation of beauty therapy students in her role as one of the Beauty Therapy tutors at Te Pukenga/ARA Polytech in Christchurch.
Leanne Winsor
NZ Most Promising Therapist of the Year
Leanne brings an international flair to teaching, training and upskilling the best hands in the business. Hailing from New Zealand, she utilized her professional skills in the UK as a qualified Skin Therapist and Trainer, and in Canada as National Education M
anager, and the USA as International Education Manager for Latin America and the Caribbean before eventually returning home to New Zealand.
During her time overseas, Leanne also appeared on television and in print in
Canada and the U.S.A. numerous times as an unbiased authority on skin care.
For the past 7 years, Leanne has been based with Skin Health Experts, the New Zealand distributors for Dermalogica. She currently heads up Sales & Education and has an extensive amount of experience, particularly with Dermalogica and a demonstrated history of working in the skin care industry around the globe. She is skilled in cosmetics, retail, salons, spa and skin care which has positioned her as the go-to person to assist the professional skin care market wherever she is based.
Leanne is a graduate of Champneys International College of Health and Beauty in the United Kingdom, she holds international certification from CIDESCO and CIBTAC and she is internationally certified in Aromatherapy and Reflexology. Her extensive knowledge and global experience in the industry has led her to work with the U.S.A., United Kingdom and Canada IDI international locations worldwide.
NZ Tutor/Trainer of the Year
Lorraine holds a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education from Otago University and began her career teaching at Papakura High School for four years. She then spent five years in Britain, where she combined motorcycle touring through Europe with work opportunities, including six months at Britain’s leading Spa and Health Resort, Henlow Grange. There, she coached morning exercise sessions and supported the spa therapists with body treatments—an experience that sparked her passion for body therapies.
After returning to New Zealand, Lorraine taught for 13 years at Western Springs College in Auckland, covering Physical Education, Junior Science, and Senior Biology, as well as serving as Senior Dean.
In 1991, she took a year away from teaching to study Beauty Therapy at Joyce Blok. She enjoyed it so much that she decided to pursue it full time, eventually resigning from her teaching role once a replacement was found.
In 1993, Lorraine and her husband relocated to Nelson, and the following year she founded her own business, Body Ambience, specialising in body therapies and working with Joyce Blok and Thalgo products. The business grew rapidly, expanding to a larger premises with six staff and rented spaces for other body therapists. In 2006, Body Ambience was recognised with the Nelson Chamber of Commerce Business Award.
That same year, Lorraine was headhunted by Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) to establish a Beauty and Body Therapy programme. What began as a six-month course quickly expanded into a one-year programme, and ultimately developed into a full two-year Diploma. Lorraine taught at NMIT from 2006 to 2016, training many graduates who are now successful therapists across the Nelson region.
Since 2016, Lorraine has continued practicing from her home clinic, focusing on advanced treatments not widely offered by her graduates. These include Michael Bono Advanced Electrolysis, Advanced Skin Solutions (having completed four of Flo’s courses), and IPL for pigmentation. She works closely with her former students, accepting referrals for advanced treatments while sending clients back to them for other services—supporting both her clients and the next generation of therapists.
NZ Clinic of the Year
As a therapist and the owner of the clinic Louise Gray Skin Care, Louise is dedicated to the industry. She trained at the Joyce Blok Institute in 1996 having been an intensive care Nurse for many years overseas and in NZ.
Louise divides her time between practicing her craft, mentoring numerous industry professionals, as an educator/ trainer and previously a distributor of some of the most leading-edge technical devices.
She has been an active member of the NZARBP and is a Member of the NZARBP Executive Committee, and was an appointed Board Member of Te Pukenga HITO NZ. She is proud to be involved in one of the most dynamic and diverse industries in New Zealand.
NZ Cosmetic Tattooist of the Year
Michaella Messenger is a respected industry professional and the driving force behind AATraining, where she has dedicated her career to raising standards in beauty and aesthetics education. With years of experience as both a practitioner and trainer, Michelle is passionate about empowering others to achieve excellence through high-quality, hands-on training.
Known for her keen eye for detail, professionalism, and commitment to best practice, Michaella has guided countless students toward successful careers in the cosmetic and beauty industry. Her work with AA Training reflects her belief that education should be practical, supportive, and designed to help individuals thrive in a fast-evolving industry.
As a judge on this panel, Michaella brings not only her technical expertise but also her deep understanding of artistry, safety, and innovation in cosmetic tattooing. She is honored to contribute to celebrating the skills, creativity, and dedication of the industry’s finest artists.
NZ Student/Apprentice of the Year
As soon as I started my beauty therapy training, I was captivated. Although the intensity of the study was something I hadn’t expected, it was two years of new understandings that would be part of my lifelong learning.
My training provided me with incredible opportunities that have sustained my career for 40 years. I’ve been lucky to work in clinics and health spa’s; build my own mobile beauty business and work on a cruise ship sailing from Alaska to the Caribbean. I eventually followed my dream of teaching beauty therapy and arrived in Aotearoa New Zealand 33 years ago to work in a beauty therapy college, where shortly after, I became college Principal.
Maintaining and building high standards in the industry has been a main focus of my career. Consequently, I have been involved in developing beauty and spa programmes and moderating qualifications. I have worked as a national and international examiner and Beauty Industry Assessor. I was an executive committee member of the NZ Association of Registered Beauty Professionals for 20 years. During this time, I also held the position of President, and led the Association through the Covid pandemic, developing online networking and support mechanisms.
member until 2021.
NZ Clinic of the Year
With 18 years industry experience, Pauline remains a dedicated and passionate clinic owner and mentor for her team and clients on the Coromandel. Her passion is driven by excelling team culture, education, industry support and development, while she continues to work with clients supporting them with Advance Skin Revision and Therapies.
Pauline is an industry advocate, building positive relationships and both personal and professional development within the industry, empowering others to nurture our industry culture and strive for excellence.
You will find Pauline in the small coastal town of Thames, where she has built an award winning clinic; Pamper Me MediSpa. A multi award winning business recognised by HITO Industry Awards, Beauty Industry Award Finalists, DMK Skin Awards, Community Business Awards, Regional Business Award winners, including International Skin Case Study Awards with DMK Paramedical Skin Care.
Pauline is honoured to have the opportunity to be on the Judging Panel for NZ Clinic of the Year.
"I would like to take this opportunity to wish all the entrants the very best. I look forward to receiving your applications and learning about your journey to success. This is a great opportunity to step outside your comfort zone, take a birds eye view of your business and reflect and celebrate your achievements '.
NZ Clinic of the Year
Following a successful career within the New Zealand Police Peter did a complete U-turn and entered the Beauty Industry.
That was 20 years ago now and today, as Managing Director of Arrow Beauty Peter has seen Professional Beauty Therapy grow from strength to strength.
From humble begins Arrow Beauty has grown into a leading Industry Supplier with a passionate team of professionals all working hard for the betterment of our Therapists.
Passionate about our industry and a long-term supporter of our NZ Beauty Therapy Association Peter is privileged to bring his experience and knowledge to this year’s Judging Panel.
An avid sportsman Peter has been a top-level Rugby Referee with Premier Rugby in New Zealand and Rugby 7’s overseas. These days he’s just a happy to Referee the lower grades or you’ll find him at the 19th hole.
“As a Distributor Member of our Association I was extremely proud to be accepted as a Judge for this year’s awards. I have no doubt the calibre of entrant will be extremely high and I want to wish all those the very best of luck”
NZ Therapist of the Year
Rebecca has been involved in the beauty industry for 28 years. Being a late starter to the industry she qualified in 1995 and went on to attend post graduate courses in advanced skin analysis courses, advanced electrolysis, Dr Vodder lymph drainage and Reiki.
Rebecca had a clinic for 13 years on the North Shore in Auckland before joining a large beauty & appearance franchise, where she worked providing business support to the owners and product training to the beauty therapists.
In 2015 she bought a Caci Clinic in the Hawkes Bay and now owns 2 clinics there and employs 8 staff. The beauty industry has been a passion for Rebecca and continues to fulfil her to this day.
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