The Team
Meet Our Stylists
Phil Allen
Director & Master Stylist
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As one of the owners of Sphere, Phil’s journey in hairdressing began at a young age, growing up in a family where the craft was more than a profession. With a deep-rooted passion for the art, Phil embraces all aspects of hairdressing, particularly excelling in hair extensions, balayage, and short, stylish cuts.
Phil’s commitment to the industry goes beyond technical skill. He’s driven by a dedication to continuous learning and growth. He prioritises yearly professional development, both for himself and his team, ensuring Sphere remains at the cutting edge of trends and techniques. His enthusiasm for advancing the salon’s skills and expertise is a core part of the supportive, innovative environment he has created and fosters at Sphere.
Tadao Kano
Master Stylist
Tadao began his hairdressing career in Japan in 1995. With training from Vidal Sassoon and Wella, Tadao specialises in Permanent Straightening, Perming, Keratin Smoothing treatments, and all aspects of cutting.
He has worked as a stylist on prestigious collections, including:
• Miss Universe Japan 2000
• Tokyo Girls Collection (four seasons, 2005–2007)
• Tokyo Collection
• DKNY
• Karl Lagerfeld
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After moving to New Zealand in 2006, Tadao owned a salon in Palmerston North and worked at Spectra until joining the Sphere team in 2020. In 2023, he completed the Wella Colour Craft Colour Essentials course. Tadao also assisted with the Patrick Cameron Collection in November 2024.
Leone Oldfield
Master Stylist
With 13 years of experience, Leone started her career at UCOL and quickly advanced to a Senior Stylist position at Spectra. Hairdressing has provided her with incredible opportunities to upskill and work on exciting projects, such as Auckland Fashion Week. She has competed in hair competitions, both regionally and nationally, placing highly, and has travelled to Australia and South Africa to expand her expertise. Recently, Leone completed the Wella Colour Craft Colour Correction and Colour Genius courses.
Leone thrives on building connections with her clients, making them feel beautiful, and achieving stunning transformations with cuts and colours. She particularly loves creating crisp blondes and short, textured cuts. Outside of work, Leone enjoys performing arts, especially singing, and stays active by hitting the gym and walking her dog, Barley.
Stephen Smith
Emerging Stylist
Stephen has just completed his first-year apprenticeship and is passionate about balayage, highlights, and all things colour. He completed the Wella Colour Craft Colour Essentials program and attended the Wella Red Forums in 2023 (Bali) and 2024 (Croatia). Previously a mechanic, Stephen brings a unique background to his new career and is always up for a chat about motorsports, vehicles, and motorbikes.
