If you’re planning a South Island road trip that takes in both Queenstown and Wanaka — a combination that most Australians visiting New Zealand will tick off — you’re probably wondering where you should book your hair appointment. Both towns have salons, but the level of service, specialisation, and technical expertise varies considerably. Here’s the honest picture.

Queenstown vs Wanaka: The Lay of the Land

Queenstown is the larger of the two towns and has a more developed hospitality and services industry. It draws more international visitors, supports a larger professional community, and as a result has more premium salon options. Wanaka is smaller, more relaxed in character, and while it has several very good local salons, it doesn’t yet have anything approaching the specialised, award-winning level of service available in Queenstown.

For Australians who are used to the standard of premium city salons and want to replicate or exceed that experience while on holiday, Queenstown is the answer.

What Sets Queenstown Apart

The Queenstown salon market attracts stylists from around the world — international stylists who choose to live and work in one of New Zealand’s most beautiful places while maintaining the kind of standards they’d expect in London, Sydney, or New York. This creates a talent pool that a town of Queenstown’s size has no right to have.

Iron + Ivy Hair Studio is the standout example of this. Founded and led by Lauren McMurray-Sherwin — an award-winning stylist who has competed internationally and represented New Zealand on the global stage — Iron + Ivy brings a level of technical expertise and craft to Queenstown that would hold its own in any major city in the world.

If You’re Based in Wanaka

Wanaka is approximately 60 minutes from Queenstown via the Crown Range Road, or about 75 minutes via Luggate and the SH6 route. The Crown Range route is breathtakingly scenic and most Australian visitors driving in New Zealand will find it an entirely manageable and enjoyable journey.

Many of our clients make the drive from Wanaka specifically to see us — particularly for colour, extensions, and specialist treatments. If you’re spending a few nights in Wanaka as part of a wider South Island itinerary, it’s absolutely worth planning a Queenstown day that includes your Iron + Ivy appointment.

What to Book at Iron + Ivy

If You’re in Queenstown for the Weekend

A blowout or styling session is ideal — it takes 45–60 minutes, and you’ll leave looking exceptional for whatever the evening holds. Queenstown’s restaurant scene is world-class (Amisfield, Rata, The Grille) and your hair should match.

If You’re in Queenstown for a Week or More

This is the window for something more significant — balayage, a colour transformation, or extensions. Full balayage services typically take 3–5 hours, and extensions require a consultation plus application time. Book early in your trip so you have time to enjoy the results.

If You’re Doing the South Island in 10–14 Days

If Queenstown is your first or last major stop, anchor your Iron + Ivy appointment around that. Arriving with great hair sets the tone for the whole trip; leaving with great hair means you arrive back in Australia looking like you’ve been living your best life — which, of course, you have.

Booking Tips for Australian Visitors

  • Book 3–4 weeks in advance for colour and extension services during peak season
  • Book 1–2 weeks in advance for blowouts and styling
  • Check NZ public holidays — we’re closed Sundays and Mondays
  • Confirm your appointment a few days before your trip in case your travel plans change

Find Us in Queenstown

Iron + Ivy Hair Studio is located at Shop D1-02A, 19 Grant Road, Central Shopping Centre, Queenstown. We’re in the heart of town, easy to find, and worth every second of the drive from Wanaka. Book online here or get in touch at [email protected].

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