A haircut can really make or break a man. If it’s a beard trim we’re talking about, it’s even more essential to get your grooming right.
And, let's face it, it’s high time men get a bit of pampering—considering haircuts of the olden days consisted of a dodgy shopping centre chain, a quick slap around the head with the clippers and a free mint on the way out. So without further ado, here are the best barbers in Auckland for a sharp new look.
Boar & Blade
Ponsonby & Wynyard Quarter
Boar & Blade are premium men’s grooming shops found in the heart of Ponsonby Central as well as Wynyard Quarter. Headed by owner Hohepa ‘Hops’ Rutene, their unique, relaxed and approachable culture has seen them become local legends. From tight fades to beard trims and clean shaves, no matter what you’re after, the team at Boar and Blade will have you looking your sharpest.
Churning out suave cuts over top-quality banter and beer, be sure to book in quick as the skilled team is hot in demand.
Maloney’s Barber Shop
Auckland CBD
A staple in the Auckland barbershop scene for more than a decade, Maloney’s Barber Shop offers an array of services from a quick buzz cut to a hot towel shave and everything in between.
Every head of hair is treated with the utmost respect and is styled to perfection by this bunch of talented lads.
Walk-in appointments are offered but if it’s the ultimate barbershop experience you’re after then be sure to book in for a cut-throat shave.
Flash City Tattoo
Ponsonby
Flash City is a walk-in-only barbershop and tattoo parlour located on Ponsonby Road. Their two barbers—Ryan and Matt work throughout the week and even offer ice-cold Coopers beer for their Thursday late-night sessions free of charge.
Their services leave you and your wallet feeling relaxed and a little risky while you’re waiting for your shave. While you're at it, take a look at the ever-changing flash tattoos for a complete makeover.
Hair By Wayne
Epsom
It’s rare to see the new kid on the block slay the game and snatch the trophies right out the gate, but that’s exactly what Hair by Wayne has done. Located on Manukau Road in Epsom this barbershop is muscling in on the scene.
Sweeping up the hair and the competition, Hair by Wayne was awarded the Neville Spence Barber of the Year 2019, first place in Creative Cut, first place in Razor Fade 2018 and 2019, and second place in the Traditional section.
So you can relax and know you’re getting the works—that’s right, even men's facials and waxing. So what’s your excuse Epsom?
The Parnell Barbershop
Parnell
Situated on Parnell Road, this high-end barbershop just oozes style with its classic décor. Although walk-ins are welcome, spots tend to fill up fast so booking is recommended.
Services at the Parnell Barbershop include a barber cut and beard trim or a barber cut and a cut-throat shave, all with a complimentary beverage.
What sets this barbershop apart from the rest is you can hire the shop out for exclusive gentlemen’s club bookings and get two of your very own barbers to tend to your men.
Right Cuts
Auckland CBD
Nestled right in the CBD on Victoria Street West behind an unassuming facade lies Right Cuts, one of the best barbershops in Auckland.
Here you’ll find reasonably priced cuts, wet shaves, beard shaping and tidying and what’s more, all men’s cuts are finished with a refreshing hot face towel.
Add to this the friendly banter, decent tunes and laid-back atmosphere and you know you’re in good hands—guaranteed to walk out with a slick style exactly how you want it.
Urban Goose
Newmarket
We're suckers for a fun name—however, let us be clear that when it comes to cutting hair, Urban Goose means business. In fact, founder Joseph Clibbétt has spent the last two decades perfecting his craft both here and abroad, most recently at another notable spot (sadly, now closed)—Slick Shop in Ponsonby.
Now he and a small team of talented stylists are bringing their expertise to this contemporary barbershop (which also doubles as a gallery) at 77 Broadway.
And while the fit-out is very much a modern affair, these guys are keeping with barbershop convention where it counts (and by that, we mean quality yarns, which are traditionally as important as the cut itself).
They'll even throw in a cold beer for your troubles. Now that's what we call service.
Room 104
Auckland CBD
Situated downtown in the old heritage building, Achilles House, Room 104 offers the ultimate men’s grooming experience frequented by Auckland’s A-list and businessmen alike.
This New York-style loft space is home to the exclusive barbershop that is Room 104. You can sit back, read a magazine, beer in hand and relax, while the talented team takes care of your locks.
Each booking designates enough time to go over your desired look without rushing and their repertoire of work is constantly updated with the latest on-trend styles.
Bespoke Barbers And Vintage
Birkenhead
Paul Bartolo is the creative mastermind behind this North Shore gem. After spending more than 30 years in the industry, owning and working in barbershops in London, Melbourne and Auckland, Bespoke Barbers and Vintage brings together craft and style while maintaining a welcoming environment for its customers.
Services range from a simple buzz cut to a full restyle and a quick beard trim to a beard reshape with a blade. Bespoke Barbers and Vintage is where 'tradition meets modern' and where 'craft meets style and equals success.'
Brotherhood Urban Stylists
Takapuna
Last but certainly not least is Brotherhood Urban Stylist. Based in Takapuna, they strive to make you feel welcome and part of a 'brotherhood' of sharing creativity.
Specialising in both scissors and clippers, this barbershop has a service to suit everyone. From a 'classic brother' full-style cut with a hot towel finish, a 'silver brother' colour to blend those greys for a more natural look, and an 'executive brother' which throws a full scalp massage and a bevvy of your choice into the service.
To complete the experience, this is all done while broadcasting the latest sports on television.
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Image credit: Agustin Fernandez, Maloney's Barber Shop, Hair By Wayne, Right Cuts, Urban Goose, Bespoke Barbers and Vintage.