A woman with blonde hair wearing a white outfit and a fur coat sitting on a couch with a glass of white wine in her hand while a makeup artist applies lipstick to her. The scene takes place in a cozy room with large windows and blue curtains.
A woman getting her makeup done by a makeup artist in a pink outfit.
 

Hello,

Hi, I’m Deirdre Read, a Wānaka-based makeup artist, hairstylist and beauty therapist with more than 35 years of professional experience. My career has taken me throughout New Zealand, Europe and the UK. I was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, and moved to New Zealand when I was 7; sadly, I lost my accent along the way.

To complement my makeup and beauty background, I completed specialist bridal and special-event hairstyling training in Melbourne. Although I don’t cut or colour hair, I am professionally trained in both hairstyling and makeup. For larger groups, I work alongside a carefully chosen team of trusted makeup artists and hairstylists, ensuring every client receives the same calm, polished and professional service.

I began my career at Harrods in London and continued doing makeup when I returned to Auckland from the UK. I then had a corporate role at advertising agency Saatchi & Saatchi while still pursuing makeup on the side.

I moved to Wānaka with my husband and our two young sons in the early 2000s. Fergus and Rory are now grown, and Wānaka remains very much home. I love that so many people choose this extraordinary part of the world to holiday, celebrate, marry or honeymoon, and it is a privilege to help them feel their best while they are here.

I still work on various TV programs, Catwalks, Editorials, and TV commercials. Most recently, I was the Hair and Makeup Artist (HMUA) for Nadia Lim and the judges on MasterChef NZ.

I am passionate about making people feel relaxed, comfortable, safe, and special in my presence. It is humbling to help create special memories, and I feel privileged and honoured to be part of those moments. Many of my reviews capture the essence of my style, and reading them can provide an insight into the experience you can expect to have with me.

 
 

HMUA for Nadia Lim

GIVING BACK

We are proud to support The Breast Cancer Cure NZ with our time and products, and leading the Makeup Team for catwalk charity events for the last 8 years.

“Hair and make up are critical elements in our fashion shows. They complete the designer's inspiration and define trends and seasons for the guests. Deirdre has been Breast Cancer Cure’s lead makeup artist for the last 8 years. She is the ultimate professional, bringing her sunny personality, kindness and patience but most importantly her creative eye to all our events. I highly recommend Deirdre, her delivery of all of our beauty elements are on point year after year”.

Sonja De Mari - CEO Breast Cancer Cure NZ