The Story Behind the Stylist
A pioneer in New Zealand’s curl movement, Donna, also known as The Curl Next Door™, has spent the last decade shaping the future of textured hair care across Aotearoa. What began as a personal journey to make peace with her own curls evolved into a mission that has redefined how the industry views, educates, and celebrates natural texture.
Trained personally by Lorraine Massey creator of The Curly Girl Method. Donna is among the most credentialed curl specialists in the country. Her advanced education includes:
CurlbyCurl™ & The Curly Girl Method (CurlyWorld, USA)
Curly Hair Artistry Mastery Program (USA)
Rëzo Cutting Level 2 under Nubia Suarez (USA)
Cut It Kinky Level 2 Professional Education in Tight Curls (USA)
CADŌ Academy Level 1 under Reema Jaber (Canada)
Through her platform Curls Naturally™, Donna introduced NZ’s first dedicated curl-specific online store and directory, connecting curl clients and stylists while raising education standards nationwide. Her grassroots advocacy, workshops, and stylist mentorship have inspired an entire generation of curl specialists in Aotearoa.
At her private New Plymouth studio, clients travel from across the country to experience Donna’s signature precision cutting and transformational lessons in curl confidence. Her philosophy is simple but powerful - inclusion, education, and excellence with results that are truly life-changing.
Her kiwi product of choice? Cabela, because New Zealand curls deserve world-class care, made right here.
