Hairdressing and Barbering – new guidance on public health

New public health guidance for hairdressing and barbering

Following the Ministry of Regulations Hairdressing and Barbering Regulatory Review, The Health (Hairdressers) Regulations 1980 are being revoked effective from 31 July 2025.

Voluntary public health guidance has now been released in place of these regulations. The guidance is focused on where the risk of infection needs to be managed, and includes:

• Cleaning and disinfecting tools after every client.
• Washing or sanitising hands before and after every client, after handling waste and when hands are visibly dirty.
• No reuse of disposable razors.
• Having a plan for cuts and spills.
• Ensuring good air flow, especially when chemicals are used.

You can read the full guidance here.

Read more on the Health New Zealand website.