By the Blade

The first barber shop to open in town in 50 years, By the Blade is the go-to in Kaikōura for the discerning male.

Specialising in male grooming, expect to get everything from hair art to a beard trim done right.

The shop is run by the passionate Gus Hislop, who studied the trade in Auckland before returning to Kaikōura to open the business in 2018. Originally destined for a career in sports science, Gus began visiting a barber shop while studying in Christchurch, and quickly found himself pulled in by the ambiance and feel of the trade. It was the whole combination of craft, brotherhood and care that got him hooked. Gus also wanted to bring something back to his humble hometown and the gap in offerings in town sealed the deal.

Gus is passionate not only about providing exceptional barbering services, but also about good banter and positivity. He’s an advocate for mental health and strives for his barber shop to be a safe place for men to chat about any subject big or small. A quote of the week sits pride of place on a chalkboard opposite the counter, reaffirming those positive vibes.

At By the Blade you’re in capable hands and are sure to walk out looking spick and span, plus feeling great from the inside out.