Sarah Rasmussen
Owner and Style Director
Sarah has owned The Avenue Hair Studio since October 2012 and says she was born to be a hairdresser. She started working part time in a salon while still at school and has been hairdressing ever since. Sarah’s OE was spent on luxury cruise ships, working as a senior hairdresser and assistant spa manager. She went on to join L’Oreal New Zealand, working alongside salon owners, managers and hairdressers. After 16 years in the hairdressing industry, the thrill is still there. Sarah loves the ‘wow moment’ when she’s created the look her client wanted and can easily look after themselves at home. She wants her clients to look and feel fantastic everyday, not just when they leave the salon. Sarah is honoured to be part of the Matrix National Artistic Team and enjoys teaching and working alongside other hairdressers throughout New Zealand.
Sarah recommends Matrix Colorinsider, a salon range of ammonia free, permanent hair colour. “This amazing selection of beautiful colours leaves your hair shiny and in fantastic condition.”
Maria Peacock
Style Director
Maria has been hairdressing for over ten years. When she first started in the industry at just 16, hairdressing was only one of the options she considered, although Maria quickly discovered it was a natural fit for her skills. She enjoys the balance of being a working mum; spending time with her children and also fulfilling her passion as a stylist. Maria believes consultations are key to ensuring her clients leave the salon happy. It’s how she comes to know them as individuals and understand their lifestyle, personality, hair quirks and how much styling they want to do at home.
Maria recommends Biolage Thermal Active Setting Spray with Blue Agave. Protects hair against heat styling while adding body and volume. “Amazing! Fabulous results every time.”
Sarah M
Sarah has over 20 years experience in the hairdressing industry. Confident in all aspects of the trade and its artistic license, Sarah is deeply passionate about cutting, colouring and achieving the client’s vision. “People want to look and feel beautiful! I believe everyone has that right, to have beautiful hair and quality products that help them achieve the look they desire.” Sarah feels at her best with a creative team that shares the same vision and passion for their craft in this competitive industry. She enjoys learning new techniques, skills and procedures. “The industry is always evolving and changing, so as a stylist, I need to also.”
Vanessa van der Goes
Style Director
Vanessa has spent some time travelling to some of the best mountain biking spots the world has to offer. Now, The Avenue is excited to have her on their talented team.
With over six years of salon experience, Vanessa is confident in all areas of hairdressing. She enjoys working with Matrix colour and loves how dependable it is. “Matrix colour gives me the ability to create beautiful colour work to suit all my clientele.”
Sian
Intermediate Apprentice
Sian has begun her career as a hairdresser and is working her way through her apprenticeship. With 3½ years of salon experience already under her belt, Sian has perfected her luxury treatments and scalp massages, often described as the best scalp massage ever!


