How to Obtain a Cosmetology Licence in NZ
Jessica McNamara
| Last Updated: October 2023 Why don’t cosmetologists ever lose in a game of hide and seek? Because good luck hiding when you’re always ‘highlighted’!
But jokes aside, achieving a cosmetology licence in New Zealand is no child’s game. It involves a process that’s more detailed than a perfect cut and color… But don’t worry, we’re here to guide you through each step of the way.
So, what are the main ways to obtain a cosmetology licence in New Zealand?
The main ways to obtain a cosmetology licence in New Zealand are by completing your certification in beauty therapy, or by completing an apprenticeship in beauty therapy.
Let’s get started on your journey to become a licenced cosmetologist in NZ!
How to get a cosmetology licence in NZ by completing an NZ Certificate in Beauty Therapy
Step 1: Understand the requirements.
The first step in obtaining your cosmetology licence in NZ is understanding the requirements. To qualify for a licence, you’ll need to complete a New Zealand Certificate in Beauty Therapy (Level 4), or an equivalent course.
This certificate is designed to provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to work in a professional beauty therapy environment.
Step 2: Find an accredited institution.
Next, you will need to find an educational institution that provides an accredited and NZQA-recognized course for the New Zealand Certificate in Beauty Therapy. Schools like Elite Beauty School and Premier Institute of Education offer this program.
Step 3: Enrol in the course.
Once you’ve chosen your institution, it’s time to enrol in the course. This involves filling out an application form, paying any required fees, and possibly attending an interview or providing references. Ensure you meet any entry requirements too.
Step 4: Complete the coursework.
The coursework for the New Zealand Certificate in Beauty Therapy includes both theoretical and practical components.
You’ll learn about a range of beauty treatments, including facials, manicures, pedicures, waxing, and makeup application. So, expect to spend around one year on full-time study to complete this certificate.
Step 5: Make sure you undertake work experience.
Many course providers require students to complete a certain amount of work experience in a beauty salon. This gives you hands-on experience and allows you to apply the skills you’ve learnt in a real-world environment.
Step 6: Apply for your licence.
After successfully completing the course and any required work experience, you can apply for your cosmetology licence. The application process usually involves paying a fee, submitting proof of your qualifications, and possibly sitting for an exam.
Step 7: Await approval for your licence.
After you send in your application, you will have to wait for the licencing board to approve it. If everything goes well, you’ll get your cosmetology licence and be ready to start your job as a beauty specialist. This process can take a few weeks.
How to get a cosmetology licence in NZ by completing an apprenticeship in beauty therapy
Step 1: Make sure you meet the entry requirements.
Before you can start an apprenticeship in beauty therapy, you need to meet the entry requirements. This means you have to be at least 16 years old and have a minimum of NCEA Level 1 in English and Maths.
Depending on which employer you become, you may also need a clean police record.
Step 2: Find an apprenticeship.
The next step is to find an apprenticeship. Search for opportunities on job listing websites, in local newspapers, or through the New Zealand Association of Registered Beauty Professionals’ website.
It’s important to find an employer willing to support your training and provide the necessary practical experience.
Step 3: Register with The New Zealand Hair and Beauty Industry Training Organisation
Once you have found an apprenticeship, you should register with The New Zealand Hair and Beauty Industry Training Organisation (HITO). HITO are responsible for overseeing beauty therapy apprenticeships in New Zealand, ensuring that training meets industry standards.
Step 4: Set aside time to complete the apprenticeship programme.
If you work full-time, the apprenticeship programme usually takes three to four years to finish. You’ll learn both on the job, where you’ll be supervised by more experienced workers, and in the classroom.
A lot of different beauty services are taught, like waxing, haircuts, manicures, pedicures, and putting on makeup.
Step 5: Apply for your licence.
You can apply for your hairdressing licence once you’ve finished your training. Remember to take the test, pay the fee, and show proof that you meet the requirements.
Step 6: Submit your application and wait for approval.
After you send in your application, you’ll have to wait for the licencing board to approve it, which could take a few weeks. Once everything is okay, you’ll get your cosmetology licence and be ready to start working as a beauty therapist.
Step 7: Keep up your licence and maintain your skills.
Even after getting your licence, you need to keep learning. The beauty business is always changing, with new goods and methods coming out all the time.
Keeping up with these changes and trends will help you keep your licence and make sure your skills are still useful.
