Where beautiful hair meets heart: Balayage Hair
by Metropol | September 17, 2025 8:31 am
Step inside this light-filled salon in the heart of Christchurch and you’ll instantly feel at ease.
Balayage is a welcoming space founded on creativity, kindness, and connection. Husband-and-wife duo Tom and Sharon Ujihara have built it up from a boutique salon into one of the city’s most trusted names in hair. Their passion lies in creating natural, healthy, believable hair, with colour techniques tailored to each client’s unique needs. The result? Hair that looks luminous and lasts – without compromising health.
Sustainable beauty
The salon is proudly 100% cruelty-free, reflecting the team’s love for animals and their commitment to ethical beauty.
If you’re lucky, you may even meet Tom and Sharon’s adopted greyhounds, Sachi and Lily, who often lounge in the salon. They also welcome your fur babies – just let the team know when booking your appointment.
“At Balayage, caring for people goes hand in hand with caring for the planet. “That’s why we’ve chosen to work with brands that share those values of kindness and respect.
Our colour range comes from Lakmé, a family-owned business devoted to sustainability and gentle, cruelty-free formulas. Alongside this, clients are treated with haircare from thoughtful, nurturing brands like Amika, Evo, Teknia, Olaplex, and Kaleo – all chosen with the well-being of both hair and the world in mind,” Tom and Sharon say.
A space designed for you
The salon itself has been thoughtfully created to feel warm and open. Natural light streams in year-round, giving the space a sunny, homely feel – even in winter. Lush plants are placed throughout, bringing fresh life and vibrancy to every corner. While you relax, browse the eclectic collection of books and magazines on their treasured bookcase, or spot a hidden Star Wars figurine among the décor. Don’t miss the bathroom, home to the much-loved ‘pet wall,’ a collection of photos celebrating the team’s best companions.
Many say the salon is a beloved sanctuary in the heart of the city. “The team greets every visitor warmly, remembers the little details, and makes each appointment about more than just hair. It’s a place for a chat, a laugh, and a moment of calm – with great coffee or tea always at hand,” the pair say, smiling.
Inspired by connection
While renowned for its bespoke colour work and colour corrections, many clients return to the salon every four to six weeks simply for a refresh and the friendly atmosphere. To Tom and Sharon, that loyalty speaks volumes. “It’s about creating a space where people feel seen and cared for,” Tom says. “The hair is just the beginning.”
Discover Balayage – where artistry, sustainability and heart intersect at 36 Welles Street, Christchurch. Call the team on 03 9824 967, message on 027 777 3557, and see their gallery on Instagram @Balayage.
Source URL: https://metropol.co.nz/where-beautiful-hair-meets-heart-balayage-hair/