Vivo Takapuna

I've been going to Vivo Takapuna for a long time now. Vivo is like this huge thing now. It's everywhere, like Rodney Wayne in the 80's.

Previously, I was too poor to go to a salon and would just do a Just Cuts now and then or in one memorable incident, cut it myself. Now I have Rachael who is amazing and Shannon my colourist who is also amazing. Note: I'm so fancy now that I have a colourist and a stylist.

There are some major advantages to going to the same salon and having the same stylist each time:

1. They know your hair and you don't have to have a major discussion every bloody time about what you want and how you have a double crown and do you want layers. I don't know what to say to those questions. I just want them to make it look good, the details are up to them.
2. I can trust them to do the colour and cut and I know they aren't going to ruin my hair. Like this one haircut I was forced into in high school. It earned me some unfortunate teasing and I already had enough of that, thank you very much.
3. You don't have to make small talk with a stranger. Who is touching you.

Things I like about Vivo Takapuna

• No one tries to sell me shampoos and stuff, the upsell at other salons is so heavy handed, it puts me right off.
• There's a drinks menu where you can have a juice, tea, coffee, water while you get your hair done. 
• The price is reasonable. It's not cheap but it's not outrageous either. 
• They have stuff on Grab One all the time, so you can get good specials
• You get a rewards voucher after spending a certain amount. None of this points bullshit. 
• Booking can be done all online, including choosing your stylist.
• They know that I want to sit quietly and read my book and not talk to anyone, and no one is offended. It's perfect.

Here is how I look coming out of the salon:

Not bad - especially if you take a look at the 'before' picture in the Clairol post. 

Final rating: A cut above the rest.