When I first started looking into beauty schools in New Zealand, I was overwhelmed. There were so many options, and honestly, it was hard even figuring out which ones were worth the thousands of fees I’m about to invest.

I wanted to find schools that offer solid foundations in theory or practice, or both. Because yes, while online videos are free, they can’t replace structured learning in a supportive environment!

With the help of the team, I visited campuses, spoke to grads and students, and interviewed management staff to find NZ’s best beauty schools. This list highlights everything we’ve found!

1. Elite School of Beauty & Spa

Elite School is the ideal school for those who want in-depth knowledge in various beauty skills. The school offers a wide range of NZQA-recognised qualifications from Level 3 to Level 5, offering flexibility for various goals.

Courses at this institution are clearly structured. For instance, their Level 3 Certificate in Skin Care and Makeup services runs for 16 weeks and covers foundational skills, client communication, and basic sales.

According to the students, trainers have a well-paced teaching style that matches the progression of offerings, whether it’s 16 or 32 weeks. To complete the learning experience, the facility is equipped with training rooms across 2 floors.

On top of that, convenience is also a win for students. The school has public transport access via bus, train, and even ferry. 

Pricing is generally favourable as well, with tuition that falls within the city’s range.

However, it’s important to mention that we also found concerning reports from a number of students who experienced some form of bullying. There may be a gap when it comes to empathy from the management, which we wish to seek improvements in soon.

Encouraging and amazing trainers

“I am currently studying my diploma at Elite in Auckland. If you’re looking to get into the beauty industry Elite is a great place to start! The trainers here are so encouraging and overall amazing. The environment here is so welcoming and friendly. I love it 😊 …”

Claudia Shervell | Google Reviews

Supportive learning environment 

“I’m currently studying level 4 at Elite School of Beauty and Spa (Auckland) and will go onto do the Diploma here too this year! I love Elite because of the incredibly supportive learning environment, our exceptional trainers and my peers who always encourage me the best beauty therapist I can be!”

Richie Jackson | Google Reviews

2. Evolution School of Beauty, Massage & Nails

Based in Northland, this NZQA Category One provider impressed us with its focused and structured curriculum. It’s a small school, but that fact also offers many advantages – there’s an intimate learning environment and industry-aligned training.

One of the things we liked is their Level 4 Certification in Beauty Therapy. The course spans 40 weeks, with 3 full days of on-campus study and a day of home study.

We liked this course as it covers a wide range of skills, including manicure & pedicure, waxing, and spray tanning. Lash, brow services, facials, and makeup training are also included.

We really love that students can rotate into clinic coordinator roles, learning reception work, bookings, and even retail. This gives them strength in technical and customer service skills.

If we were to highlight a drawback, it would be the limited physical scale of the campus, which means less room for in-campus treatment training. But for those who want a focused, hands-on learning, this school is a great option.

Quality products and techniques

“I studied with Evolution in 2021. We used nothing but the highest quality of products and techniques. The teaching was done with passion & love for the industry. They set us up well for our career. With very in depth knowledge of level 4 beauty standards & teachings. Very proud to say I studied with the best beauty school in newzealand.”

Christine Murray | Google Reviews

Fabulous experience

“I had such a fabulous experience studying with Evolution School. They provided me with everything I needed to set myself up for successful career as a Massage Therapist. Thanks Evolution team your all amazing”

Nadine Marsh | Google Reviews

3. Elite School of Beauty & Spa – Hamilton Campus

Elite is a top-tier beauty school in New Zealand that’s known for broad course offerings, highly qualified instructors, and practical learning opportunities. It’s also centrally located, which makes it accessible to many students. 

We liked that their Level 3 Certificate in Skin Care and Makeup Services provides solid groundwork. It’s a 32-week course that offers lessons in skin consultations, makeup application, and retail communication.

For more advanced learners, their Level 5 Diploma in Beauty & Spa Therapy will help elevate those skills. 

What’s even better is that they have solid international certification options like CIDESO. This is a major advantage, as this can enable students to pursue global careers.

Speaking of which, they maintain strong industry partnerships, which help with internships and job placements. And since the school focuses on having an inclusive learning environment, graduates are more equipped to take on jobs abroad. 

Unfortunately, we didn’t have the best things to say about their administration staff, which occasionally appears rude and unprofessional. If it’s something you can compromise on, though, we’re sure you’ll gain valuable skills here.

Lovely, skillful, and knowledgeable students

“I really enjoyed my experience here. The students are lovely, skillful and knowledgeable. Totally recommend checking them out!”

Shanae | Google Reviews

Comfortable and lovely experience

“Highly recommend to come here. The girls are all lovely. Nothing is a problem for them. I am a larger girl, but yet I was made to feel comfortable. I had the relaxing massage and my eye trio, I am now going back for a facial, leg waxing, head massage and a stone massage. Get the fantastic deals from Grab one and you cannot go wrong. Just go and relax. 24th Oct 2024, Thank you to Jess, Brooke, Tia, Isabel, Georgia, for making my visits such a wonderful experience, you ladies are awesome.  I wish you all, very well in your careers. To Elite Beauty school, you will see me when I am back in Hamilton again. Thank you Di. 😊”

Diane McBride | Google Reviews

4. Inspired Beauty

Inspired Beauty is a solid start for those who want to start building on skills through full certification courses. Options are extensive, including lash extensions, brow lamination, gel manicures, and nail art.

They also win when it comes to affordability, with classes costing as low as $49 for masterclasses. A full certificate goes up to $399, which is still more affordable than most schools.

What we liked the most was the accessibility of the learning forms. Each course includes access to online theory, professional video tutorials, and downloadable manuals.

In some cases, there are in-person training days with live models. There’s also lifetime access to guidance even after certification.

According to the students, the mentors are skilled in helping them improve their techniques. They’re kind, supportive, and clear with instructions. Most students said they gained more here compared to larger institutions.

Considering the low cost and demand of the courses, there’s a tendency for courses to fill up fast (most popular in-person options are often sold out). We recommend staying updated with their channels to grab a spot up fast.

Helpful for training and communications

“Lisa has been so helpful over the years I’ve known her. She has helped me with training and communications have been great after my training as well. Would definitely recommend Inspired Beauty, service is great!”

Heather Otter | Google Reviews

Incredible, kind, and informative

“Lisa is absolutely amazing! She is incredibly, kind and informative whilst teaching the classes. The training felt very smooth and supportive. 10/10 I would recommend inspired beauty to everyone who is wanting to do any kind of beauty training. Amazing products with amazing support.”

Nichole Leek | Google Reviews

5. Premier Institute of Education

Our team considers Premier Institute of Education to be a solid choice for both hairdressing and nail technology. With over 22 years of experience, they have a robust reputation for salon-based education.

We liked that their courses are tailored to industry needs. Their hairdressing program is known for being immersive, with a focus on basic cuts to advanced styling techniques.

Meanwhile, their nail tech course is structured to ensure a practical foundation on various skills, including gel, acrylic, and natural nail care.

The learning environment is warm and inclusive, with many students noting that they felt listened to and cared for. The same energy is reflected in their services, which are all delivered with close tutor oversight.

Beyond this, we also appreciate their 24/7 online platform, which students can access for blended learning. 

The cost of fees is within the city’s average, though we wish there were options for financing. 

If there’s an area for improvement, we want to see better communication from their management. Students told us that they had unaddressed complaints, so it’s worth noting for prospective students.

Lovely and supportive tutors

“I really enjoy coming here the girls try really hard to do a great job and I’ve never been disappointed.  The Tutors are really lovely and support the girls very kindly. Prices are fantastic. Pop in just for a head massage and conditioning treatment, it’s cheap.”

Vince Manks | Google Reviews

Learned a lot of valuable lessons

“My partner went here a couple years back. She learnt so many valuable lessons which she has continued to use to this day.”

Richi Mc | Google Reviews

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