The party season survival guide: hair hacks for a Christchurch Christmas

We have officially hit that time of year. The calendars are blocked out, the work dos are in full swing, and the Christmas shopping panic is starting to set in.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, but let’s be honest—it’s also the most stressful for your hair. Between the extra heat styling for events, the scorching Canterbury sun, and the late nights, your locks go through a lot in December.

At Friends + Co, we want you to look flawless from your first glass of bubbles at the staff party right through to New Year's Eve.

Whether you are looking for best hairdressers Christchurch to save you from a hair disaster or just need some quick tips to style your own hair at home, this is your ultimate party season survival guide.

1. The 'day-to-night' dilemma: quick styling hacks

We know the struggle. You’re at work until 5:00 pm, and the Christmas drinks start at 5:30 pm. You don’t have time for a full wash and blow-dry. Here is how to transform your look in under 15 minutes.

The textured low pony

This is the "cool girl" staple that works on almost everyone.

• Texture is key: Spray some texture spray or dry shampoo into your roots to give them grit and volume.
• Low and loose: Gather your hair at the nape of your neck. Don’t pull it too tight; keep it soft around the ears.
• Hide the tie: Take a small section of hair from the ponytail, wrap it around your hair tie, and pin it underneath with a bobby pin. Instantly chic.

The 'cheat' wave

If you have straight hair and want movement but have zero time:

• High pony method: Tie your hair into a super high ponytail.
• Curl the tail: Split the ponytail into 3 or 4 sections and curl them with your wand or straightener.
• Release and shake: Take the hair tie out, flip your head upside down, shake it out, and spray. You’ll have loose, voluminous waves without having to section your whole head.

Pro tip: If you are struggling with your styling tools, ask us during your next appointment! As a top city hair salon, we love teaching clients how to recreate that salon finish at home.



2. Beating the heat: humidity-proofing your hair

A Christchurch Christmas usually comes with two things: nor’west winds and dry heat. Neither is great for keeping your style in place.

If you have curls or frizz-prone hair, the "summer fuzz" is real.

• Hydrate first: Frizz is just hair crying out for moisture. Use a leave-in conditioner before you even think about styling.
• Seal the deal: Finish every style with a humidity-blocking serum or oil. This creates a barrier on the hair shaft that stops moisture from the air getting in and ruining your smooth look.
• Embrace the up-do: On those 30-degree days, sometimes the best option is a sleek bun. Use a dedicated smoothing creme to slick back flyaways. It looks intentional, expensive, and keeps you cool.

3. The gift guide: what to buy the person who has everything

Stuck on gift ideas? Hair care is the "practical luxury" that everyone loves but rarely buys for themselves. Skip the scented candles this year and get them something they’ll actually use.

For the blonde in your life

Blonde maintenance is a full-time job. A high-quality purple shampoo and conditioner set is a thoughtful gift that helps them keep their colour icy and fresh between salon visits.

For the heat-styling addict

If you know someone who straightens or curls their hair daily, their hair is likely thirsty. A luxury hair mask or a bond-building treatment (like K18 or Olaplex) is a game-changer. It’s a spa day in a bottle.

For the 'lazy' styler

We all have that friend who wants great hair but puts in zero effort. Get them a silk pillowcase. It reduces friction while they sleep, meaning less breakage and less bed-head in the morning. It’s the definition of beauty sleep.