Heaven Hair manager Jayne Allison Palmer took part in the three-day expo, having been invited by TIGI Australasian creative director Grant Norton.
It was an opportunity stylists "usually only dream about", Ms Palmer said.
"The amount of exposure to the expertise of the TIGI team was sensational and the nature of the event meant I was a lot more hands-on and involved than I'd expected.
"I was backstage with the models, working alongside the creative team headed by TIGI's international creative director, Anthony Mascolo.
"His hair show, Cirque de TIGI, travels all around the world, visiting Australasia every four or five years.
"Anthony is highly regarded in the industry. I felt completely privileged to work alongside him.
"To be part of Cirque de TIGI was mind-blowing."
Originally from East Yorkshire, Ms Palmer was trained by the Mark Hill team in the United Kingdom and has been in Queenstown for the past two years.
Salon owner Amy Green described her salon manager as "an extraordinary stylist".
"Jayne was identified by Grant Norton as a skilled and talented stylist when she helped out with a Wellington show. "It was fantastic to be able to support her to get to Expo."
TIGI was the largest exhibitor at Hair Expo Australia which was home to more than 150 suppliers, held at Darling Harbour Convention Centre, in Sydney.
The expo brings together the southern hemisphere's hairdressing community to experience the hottest brands and products, world-class education, international talent and show-stopping live performances.
TIGI Australia-New Zealand sales manager Glenn Ruddle said Mr Norton saw many hairstylists and Ms Palmer's invitation to the expo was "a true recognition of her skill".
Photo supplied.
