About Mikaela
Creative Director and Founder of UKIYO Salon & Co. — an internationally recognised hairdresser known for elevated, fashion-driven hair and a strong editorial sensibility.
Internationally recognised — grounded in Wānaka
Mikaela Gallagher is the Creative Director and Founder of UKIYO Salon & Co., based in Wānaka, New Zealand. An internationally recognised hairdresser, Mikaela is known for her elevated, fashion-driven approach to hair and her ability to merge technical excellence with artistic vision.
She is a multiple-time finalist for New Zealand Hairdresser of the Year, a three-time Wella TrendVision ANZ winner, and an ITVA World Gold recipient. Her work is defined by refined detail, modern femininity, and a strong editorial sensibility.
Mikaela works closely with Wella Professionals as an educator, mentor, and creative contributor, and is a proud member of the Wella Next Gen 2025 team. Her career spans high-fashion editorial, education, judging, and backstage work, with projects created alongside leading photographers and creative teams across international campaigns, Paris fashion weeks, and global editorial platforms.
Grounded in intention, artistry, and heart, Mikaela continues to lead UKIYO as a space for creative excellence.
Direct contact: office@ukiyo.co.nz
What Mikaela is known for
The recognition, technique and editorial work that shape her approach behind the chair.
Editorial & Fashion
High-fashion editorial, campaign and runway work — projects created alongside leading photographers and creative teams across international platforms and Paris fashion weeks.
Advanced Colour & Balayage
Bespoke colour and free-hand balayage with refined detail — lived-in dimension that grows out beautifully and is built to frame your face.
Education & Mentoring
Educator, mentor and creative contributor with Wella Professionals — proud member of the Wella Next Gen 2025 team and regular guest judge across the industry.
Awards & Recognition
Multiple-time NZ Hairdresser of the Year finalist, three-time Wella TrendVision ANZ winner, and ITVA World Gold recipient.
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Calm, considered and deeply listening. Mikaela starts every appointment with a real consultation — not a script — and she'll tell you honestly what will work for your hair.
In her chair · Mikaela
What to expect with Mikaela
Calm, considered, and deeply collaborative. Mikaela starts every appointment with a proper consultation — reading your hair, your skin tone and how you actually live with it — then builds a service around what's right for you, not a one-size template.
For press, education or editorial enquiries, please email office@ukiyo.co.nz.
What they reach for
Mikaela's picks
The Wella, Sebastian and Kérastase products Mikaela actually uses behind the chair.
CREATIVE DIRECTOR · BY APPOINTMENT
Book with Mikaela
Mikaela typically books out 4–6 weeks in advance. Reserve your time below, or for press, education or editorial enquiries email office@ukiyo.co.nz.
Book online