GroomFest NZ 2026

Blake Hernandez (USA)

A globally recognised groomer and educator, Blake is known for his magnetic stage presence and trendsetting style. Blake brings a fresh, modern perspective to the grooming industry and will also be your MC for the weekend - expect high energy, inspiration, and plenty of entertainment!

Wendy Drummond (NZ)

Wendy is a highly respected figure in the New Zealand grooming industry, known for her deep technical knowledge and passion for education. With years of experience working with groomers of all levels, she has built a reputation for helping others refine their skills and elevate their grooming standards. Her judging style is thoughtful, supportive, and focused on bringing out the best in every competitor.

Cathy Wallace (NZ)

Cathy has been part of the dog grooming world since the early 1980s. Cathy was awarded NZ Groomer of the Year in 1993 and regularly judges competitions across New Zealand and Australia. Known for her strong attention to detail and commitment to breed standards, Cathy is passionate about supporting and developing the next generation of groomers.

Terrier Class

Acceptable breeds Schnauzers, Scotties, Wire fox, Borders, Westies etc. Rules Must be styled to breed standard. Technique Can either be Stripped or Clipped but not both. Pick one technique. Scissoring and carding allowed in both techniques to blend etc. Note: Master Level competitors must use stripping technique. If stripped, dogs must be stripped with the lay of the coat and not cause pain, discomfort or redness. Bald patches in stripped coats will mean dogs are not eligible for best in group or 1st place. Product application Chalk, powders and creams allowed, as long as the judge can get a comb through easily. Judging Criteria Smooth clipping and blending with no clipper marks. Time Frame -Clipped 1:45 – 2:00 -Stripped 2:00 – 2:30 (Time allocation will be given at prejudging)

Sporting (Gundogs) Class

Acceptable breeds Spaniels, Setters, Golden Retrievers etc. Rules Must be groomed in a recognised breed trim. Technique Can either be Stripped or Clipped but not both. Pick one technique. Scissoring and carding allowed in both techniques to blend etc. Note: Master Level competitors must use stripping technique. Product application Chalk, powders and sprays allowed, as long as the judge can get comb through easily. Sporting - Stripped coats Light use only over top of jacket. – minimal thinning shears (allowed only for blending neck, head, ears, rear, and tail). Only ears and throat may be clipped. Judging Criteria: Balance, symmetry, shape, and neat stripping work. Sporting – Clipped coats Clipping and stripping allowed. Thinning and blending techniques permitted. Judging Criteria Smooth clipping and blending with no clipper marks. Time Frame -Clipped 1:45 – 2:00 -Stripped 2:00 – 2:30 (Time allocation will be given at prejudging)

Doubles - It Takes Two

Acceptable breeds All Purebred and mixed breeds. Rules Emphasis is on fun! A freestyle competition, i.e. any style. This class is for two groomers on one dog at the same time! You and a friend can team up to produce something spectacular and enjoy the comradery! Technique Can be scissored & clippered. Product application Hair spray and chalk and finishing sprays permitted as long as the judge can get a comb through easily. Accessories like bows, bling etc are allowed to enhance final look. Colour permitted. Colour application must be done prior to competing. Matching outfits and accessories for groomers are encouraged but not required. Judging Criteria Co-ordination, teamwork, balance, symmetry, shape, scissor work and creativity. The winner of this class is not eligible for Best in Show. The winners receive the Best Grooming Couple Trophy. Time Frame: Up to 2:00 hours.

Salon Freestyle Class

Acceptable breeds All Purebred and mixed breeds. Rules Any purebred CLEARLY NOT groomed to the breed profile style. Allowable examples: Cocker in a sporting trim with scissored legs, Poodle in retro pattern, Shih Tzu to puppy trim, Pomeranian to Teddy Bear trim, Asian Fusion styles, Double coats’ sculpted trim.* No full creative styling. *Double coats cannot be shaved. Technique Can be scissored & clippered*. Coat preparation is critical! Abstract Coat carving permitted. *Clippers may be used to block out pattern, sanitary areas and pads only. Product application All products and accessories permitted, other than glitter. Subtle colour permitted. Any permanent colour application must be done prior to competing. Judging Criteria Balance, symmetry, scissor work, and neat clipper work. Visual appeal, suitability to the dog. Times Frame: Under 35cm: 1:45 hours 35cm–45cm: 2:00 hours Over 45cm: 2:15 hours

All Other Purebred Class

Acceptable breeds Any other purebred. Examples: Bichon, Bedlington, Pomeranian, Wheaten terrier, Kerry blue, Bouvier etc Rules Must be styled to breed standard. Technique Can be scissored & clippered*. *Clippers may be used to block out pattern only. Product application Hair spray and chalk permitted, as long as judge can get a comb through easily Judging Criteria Balance, symmetry, shape, scissor work, and grooming technique, according to breed standards. Time Frame Under 35cm: 1:45 hours 35cm–45cm: 2:00 hours Over 45cm: 2:15 hours

Poodle Class

Acceptable breeds Any size purebred poodle. Rules Traditional breed-standard trims only. Acceptable trims are Continental, Scandinavian, English Saddle, German or Modern Lamb trim. Retro poodles are to go into salon freestyle. Feet only may be clipped before competition. Short work must have at least 6 weeks growth. Technique Can be scissored & clippered*. Coat preparation is critical! *Clippers may be used to block out pattern, sanitary areas and pads only. Product application Hair spray permitted. A soft scrunchy type of band is acceptable prior to class but no pre banding is allowed. Up to 2 wiggies (wigs for use in top knots) of the same colour of the dog allowed. No colouring allowed. Judging Criteria Balance, symmetry, shape, and scissor work. Times Frame: Under 35cm: 1:45 hours 35cm–45cm: 2:00 hours Over 45cm: 2:15 hours Spray ups will be given an extra 15 min.

Canine Runway - Take Flight!

Let your creativity soar! This themed runway class invites groomers and their dogs to interpret Take Flight through imaginative styling and presentation - think birds, aviation, fantasy, or anything inspired by movement, air, and freedom. Coordinated looks between handler and dog are encouraged, using creative grooming, safe colour, costumes, and props (with the dog’s comfort always the priority). Take to the runway and show us how high your imagination can fly! ✨

Behaviour Matters

Behaviour Matters, specialises in kind, science-based behaviour modification and training designed to improve the lives of pets and their families, as well as offering advice and training to grooming professionals. Using positive reinforcement and fear-free methods, we help resolve behaviour challenges while strengthening the bond between you and your animal companion. My experience spans many years working in animal rescue, rehabilitation, grooming, vet nursing and animal behaviour. Animals have been my passion for as long as I can remember, and I’ve been fortunate to build a lifelong career working with them.

Treasured Fureva

We create more than jewellery – we craft eternal connections. Born in the heart of New Zealand, our ash jewellery and keepsakes are designed to honour the love and memories of those you hold dear, whether human or animal. Our story began with a heartfelt desire to bring comfort and solace. What started as a single memorial ring made from Mount Maunganui sand has grown into a meaningful mission: transforming cherished memories into timeless keepsakes. From the sand collected from a special place, to the ashes of a beloved pet, every piece we create tells a story as unique as the person or moment it represents.

• Treasured Fureva's website

Journey Dog Training

It’s all about the journey. Journey Dog Training was born from a love of learning, teaching, collaboration, and a passion to create the best lives for dogs and their humans. For over a decade, Sarah has been working within the dog training world and strives to continue, because learning doesn’t ever stop! Her purpose is to share what she has learned from experts (dogs and humans alike), with as many people as she can to create happy, healthy relationships with their dogs for life.

• Journey Dog Training's website

AllGroom

AllGroom is based in Auckland with over 40 years experience importing pet supplies for the specialist pet market in New Zealand. Our goal is to provide specialist grooming products for pet professionals at more affordable prices, without compromising on customer service or after-sales support. We put our customers first. We believe great prices don't have to be at the expense of great service.

• AllGroom's website

Heiniger NZ

At Heiniger, we believe in providing the industry with the highest quality shearing and pet grooming equipment. The proximity to our New Zealand customers, combined with the engineering and precision manufacturing of Swiss technology – has seen the Heiniger name become proud world leaders in the manufacturing and supply of professional sheep shearing, clipping and pet grooming equipment. We focus our attention on making the working-life of our customers in the animal fibre harvesting & animal welfare easier, with quality, drive, agility and loyalty.

Newflands

Wild-Caught New Zealand Hoki Oil for Dogs & Cats Developed by a veterinary professional and trusted by pet parents since 2010.

• Newflands 's website

Eezapet - relieves the itch

Is your dog's endless scratching driving you mad? Does your cat have a patch that is not healing? Eezapet relieves the itch - helping your pet to avoid scratching or gnawing at irritated areas.

• Eezapet - relieves the itch's website

Refuresh

Welcome to the world of Refuresh, where our dedicated team has crafted a line of Refureshing Brushes to redefine the grooming experience for pet owners like you!

• Refuresh's website

Odorex

Odorex® is a proudly Kiwi-owned business with over 30 years of expertise in providing top-notch odour control solutions for homes, boats, people, and pets. Explore our range of effective, environmentally friendly products designed to tackle any odour issue. Join our community and experience the Odorex difference today.

• Odorex 's website

Mipuchi Professional Grooming Series

Mipuchi Professional Series, developed by international certified Master Groomer Flavio Fernandes, and Mipuchi Home Series, developed by international certified Master Groomer Carol Radondo, both with over 25 years of experience. Pure New Zealand shampoos, conditioner and fragrances for your best friend. Delight in our luxurious unisex range of pet grooming products for dogs; artisanally blended using natural botanicals and aromatherapy-grade ingredients. Made pure in New Zealand – Mipuchi sources the highest-quality signature New Zealand ingredients including Manuka Honey and Harakeke and other natural botanicals and aromatherapy-grade ingredients with no nasty chemicals.

Vendor Prospectus & Booth Application

We’re excited to invite you to be part of GroomFest NZ, a premier dog grooming event bringing together passionate professionals, businesses, and pet lovers from across the Bay of Plenty and wider New Zealand. Our Vendor Prospectus, outlines everything you need to know about securing a trade space at the event. If you need something smaller than the 3x3m booth, we can arrange that too. Link for the Prospectus and Booth application form included above. This event is designed to be more than just a trade show. It will feature: Grooming competitions across multiple classes. Live demonstrations and educational seminars. Industry networking opportunities. Engagement with both professional groomers and dedicated pet owners. As a vendor, this is a great opportunity to: Showcase your products or services to a highly targeted audience. Build brand awareness within the grooming community Connect directly with both industry professionals and pet owners. Generate sales and long-term client relationships We’ve carefully planned the layout and flow to ensure strong foot traffic and visibility for all vendors, creating a vibrant and engaging environment for both exhibitors and attendees. Spaces are limited, and we expect strong interest, so we encourage you to review the prospectus and secure your spot early. Additional sponsorship & added exposure opportunities are also available. If you have any questions or would like to discuss the best option for your business, please don’t hesitate to get in touch, we’d love to have you involved. We hope you’ll join us in making GroomFest NZ a standout event for our industry.