Five Whitireia and WelTec ākonga have secured an impressive 17 finalist nominations at the 2026 New Zealand Hair Awards, highlighting the calibre of emerging talent coming through the institute's barbering and hairdressing programmes.
Leading the nominations is Manaia Seligman, who has earned six finalist places across the Editorial Barber of the Year, Editorial Barber Next Generation and Editorial Barber New Talent categories. For Manaia, the recognition marks the realisation of a childhood dream.
"It means a lot to even be entering. A dream I've had since I was young is becoming a reality." Manaia discovered his passion for barbering while still at school, cutting hair for friends and whānau. His award entries reimagine the classic mullet with bold geometric lines and a distinctive square silhouette.
Aliyah Davis has received five finalist nominations, including Patrick Cameron Bridal Challenge Next Generation, Editorial Stylist Next Generation, Editorial Textured Artistry of the Year and the Derek Elvy Visionary Avant-Garde Award. "It's an amazing opportunity to be entering these awards alongside stylists I admire and look up to." Aliyah is interested in curly and textured hair and creating experiences that leave clients feeling confident and celebrated.
Timothy Rempala has earned three finalist nominations, the Derek Elvy Visionary Avant-Garde Award and two places in Editorial Stylist Next Generation. Drawing on his background in oil painting and special-effects artistry, Timothy transformed ambitious creative concepts into striking competition work. "This experience has shown me that with determination, creativity and technique, even impossible ideas can become reality."
Also recognised are Francesca D'Oriano, a finalist in both the Editorial Barber New Talent and Editorial Barber Next Generation categories, and Trelise Hood, a finalist in the Editorial Stylist New Talent category.
For Francesca, barbering is both a new beginning and a return to her roots. "My parents were both hairdressers, and I grew up in a busy salon, so hairdressing was my second home. It wasn't until I tried other paths that I learned to appreciate it as a career."
For Trelise, making the finalist list is a reflection of the confidence she has gained through pushing herself creatively. "I challenged myself and stepped outside my comfort zone. Seeing how far that took me in the competition surprised me and made me genuinely proud of what I achieved."
Whitireia and WelTec Hairdressing and Makeup kaiako Te Warena says the finalists represent the future of the industry.
"These rangatahi have shown remarkable creativity, professionalism and dedication. They have the potential to become future leaders and innovators in hairdressing and barbering."
The finalists' success reflects the strength of Whitireia and WelTec's industry-focused training and the dedication and skill of its emerging stylists and barbers. Winners of the 2026 New Zealand Hair Awards will be announced on Sunday 1 November 2026.
Pictured L-R: Manaia Seligman, Aliyah Davis and Timothy Rempala.
