Golden Fades
Golden Fades Barber Shop is located in the thriving small town of Takaka, Golden Bay, at the top of New Zealand's South Island.
Golden Fades is a contemporary take on a traditional Barber Shop. It even occupies the same building that was home to Takaka's original Barber Shop, which was built and opened in 1918 and in business until 1977. The space was used for many different types of business following that, until barber Craig Young renovated and returned it to a Barber Shop once again in 2024. With just two chairs and a sumptuous leather couch, it is a spacious, well-lit and air-conditioned environment.
Golden Fades supports local artists and the walls are adorned with a 100% local collection.The shop also features an exhibition wall, where artists can display their work free of charge, gaining exposure and recognition.
The Golden Bay community is an eclectic mix of salt-of-the-earth people, farmers, artists, travellers, and free spirits who live harmoniously in an abundant paradise. Visitors come for the relaxed vibes, but also the stunning beaches and forests, as it is surrounded by two beautiful National Parks: the Abel Tasman and the Kahurangi.
We are proud to support the local community. We strive to source everything we use locally, right down to our product range. Our bespoke blackwood benches were handcrafted in Onekaka, Golden Bay, using local blackwood timber. The wrought iron metal brackets and drawer handles - expertly crafted by local blacksmith Pat Baker of Hells’s Fire Forges - are a feature that exemplifies our departure from the generic.
At Golden Fades Barber Shop we are all about the art of cutting and fading hair. Our barbers are trained in precision scissor-cutting techniques and are experts with the clippers. Our goal is to make your time spent here an experience you will love. You will be treated with respect while you relax and have your hair cut with care and skill.
"This is the best hair salon I've been to in New Zealand. We really love the result. Thank you so much." — Z.J.
About Craig
Born in New Zealand, Owner and Head Barber Craig Young travelled the world in his youth. While living in Melbourne, he worked as a professional drum maker and drummer, an ongoing passion in his life today. Craig eventually returned to New Zealand after 25 years abroad, wanting to settle down and start something new. In 2019 he simultaneously found Golden Bay, the love of his life, and his passion for hair cutting, and decided to go all in.
After three years of hard work, Craig qualified as a professional barber, going on to open his first Barber Shop in Takaka in 2022: a portable cabin parked next to the iconic Telegraph Hotel. Craig soon found himself in high demand, and decided to open a proper Barber Shop. In 2024, Golden Fades Barber Shop was opened in the main street of Takaka. Craig remains highly dedicated to the art of barbering.
"Craig, your hair cuts are outstanding. If I ask for something you just keep on giving and giving. It's awesome. The hair cuts u give me help me pull the ladies😉." - HR
About Mukti
Mel - aka Mukti - was born in Australia and moved to New Zealand with her partner in 2010. Mukti joined Golden Fades as an apprentice barber in 2025 and, with a strong work ethic and passion for the craft, has quickly become a very competent barber. Mukti’s likeable character and love of cutting hair has made her very popular in a short time.