Welcoming the future of Christchurch hairdressing: introducing Friends + Co

Three women in red dresses and suits are standing next to each other on a red background.

Change is always a part of growth, and at Friends + Co, it’s a welcome one. Previously known as Corkin+Friends, our beloved Christchurch salon has undergone a name change to reflect a new era in our journey—a journey that’s always been about more than just haircuts. The shift to Friends + Co symbolises our collective spirit, honouring not only the amazing Christchurch hair stylists on our team but also the relationships that have grown with each client who walks through our doors.


A look back at our roots

Before the Christchurch earthquakes, Stewart Corkin, our founding salon director, led an iconic inner city salon, a staple in the city’s vibrant hair and beauty scene. Unfortunately, following the earthquakes, the original salon was forced to close, with its location marked as part of the red zone. Undeterred, Stew continued his vision, setting up Corkin+Friends with the aim of serving his loyal clients in a new space. The idea was simple yet meaningful: to bring exceptional hairstyling back to Christchurch city, one haircut at a time.


A man wearing glasses is sitting in front of a potted plant

From Corkin+Friends to Friends + Co

As Corkin+Friends grew, so did our exceptional team. When we moved from Colombo Street to our larger, more modern city hair salon in Christchurch at The Welder on Welles Street, we welcomed more skilled hair stylists to our family. This evolution transformed the meaning behind the “+ Friends” in our name. No longer just a reflection of Stewart’s client relationships, it now stood for the talented team of Christchurch hair stylists working side-by-side, each bringing their unique flair to the art of hairdressing. So, we decided it was time for a name that truly represented this collective spirit—thus, Friends + Co was born.


At Friends + Co, our priority remains delivering high-quality hair services, from balayage in Christchurch to precise cuts, colour treatments, and custom styles for every client. Whether you're looking for a wedding hair stylist in Christchurch or a skilled curly hair hairdresser, you’ll find the expertise you need here.


A man is cutting a boy 's hair in a salon.

Your favourite services, just a new name

Rebranding to Friends + Co doesn’t mean our commitment to quality has changed. We’re still the best hair salon in Christchurch for those looking for impeccable service and innovative styles. Our clients can still book haircuts in Christchurch through our convenient online booking system, and we continue to offer flexible payment options, including Afterpay, so you can get the look you love on terms that work for you.


We understand that finding the right salon can be challenging, whether you're searching for the best hairdressers in Christchurch or need a stylist for a special event. At Friends + Co, we’re proud to be the top choice for our clients, from casual hair trims to the most intricate wedding styles.


For every client, Friends + Co is more than just a place to get a haircut in Christchurch; it’s a space where style, skill, creativity and community come together. To come and join us, book an appointment online or call 03 371 9297. We aim to make every visit memorable so you leave our salon feeling as fabulous as you look. 

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A woman with curly hair is touching her face on a pink background.
30 July 2025
Most (if not all) curlies have a hair horror story and avoid going to a salon as the result. The problem is some stylists don’t fully understand how best to approach curly hair, whether that’s being scissor happy and taking too much from the length causing the curls to spring up even shorter, or giving the client the dreaded pyramid shape. Naturally curly hair - is both a blessing and a challenge. Curls have personality – they’re fun and full of volume, but they are completely unique to you – there is no singular cookie-cutter hair style for curly hair. To keep them looking their best, they need specialist hair care and attention : a cut that works with their natural shape, not against it. Whether you’re rocking soft waves or tighter spirals, finding the right style is key to getting the most from your curls, but also making your daily styling less time consuming and your mane more manageable. At Friends and Co our city hair salon is a curly hairdresser in Christchurch – passionate for curly haircuts, colouring and styling. Our expert team of stylists – including some of the best hairdressers in Christchurch – understand curl patterns, shrinkage, and how to shape curls to enhance their natural bounce. If you’re searching for a curly hairdresser in Christchurch, you’re in the right place. What are the best haircuts for curly hair? Soft, shaped layers Long curls benefit from soft, graduated layers that remove bulk and avoid the dreaded pyramid shape. By carefully layering the hair, we can create shape and definition, movement and volume where it matters – around the crown and face. This kind of cut works beautifully with colour too, especially a lived-in balayage in Christchurch for that sun kissed, effortless vibe. The curly bob A chin-length or shoulder-length bob is perfect for those wanting a shorter style that still makes the most of natural curls. Depending on your curl pattern, the shape is often cut dry (because wet hair lies!) so we can see exactly how the curls sit. It’s an ideal haircut for those who want a manageable, everyday style with a little Parisian flair. Curly bangs Thinking about a fringe? Curly bangs are having a real moment. When cut well, they soften the face and add a cool, modern edge for any style. They’re especially flattering on oval and heart-shaped faces. During your hair appointment and consultation, Friends and Co’s hair stylists in Christchurch will help you decide whether a full, wispy or side-swept fringe is best for your curl type. The shag or wolf cut This modern, choppy style is perfect for looser curls and waves. With its rock’n’roll attitude and tons of volume, the shag is all about movement and texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, ask your stylist about pairing it with a bold new colour or a subtle balayage for extra dimension. Why visit a curl specialist hairdresser? Curly hair isn't a one-size-fits-all situation. That’s why it's so important to visit a curly hair hairdresser in Christchurch who understands the unique needs of your texture. At Friends and Co hair salon in Christchurch, we use cutting techniques tailored to your curls and only recommend products to nourish and define – never flatten. If you are ready to fall in love with your curls again, you can book your haircut online or call us on 03 371 9297 to make your appointment. With late night hair appointments and hairdressers Afterpay available, great hair has never been more accessible.
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