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The credit crunch hasn't stopped people pampering themselves - and saving money at the same time.
Cheaper options, such as using student trainees, are becoming more popular as people remain determined to keep their treats despite money worries.
Student beauty salons, hairdressers and even restaurants are available to
the public at a fraction of the cost.
Yvette Baker was enjoying her first hair cut and colour at Servilles Academy, and looking forward to the smaller dent in her wallet.
She planned to use the trainee hairdressers again. "It's a sign of the times I suppose."
The salon offers cuts and treatments ranging from $5 to $145, a fraction of the cost compared to many salons.
Cheyenne Joseph was having her hair cut and curled for a school ball, all for just $25. "It's really cheap. I was like, 'oh my gosh'."
Electrical engineer Alex Heather was on his second visit to Servilles at a cost of $30. "If I was to go to a hairdresser I would be paying in the hundreds," he said.
Paul Serville said the academy service was popular with all types of people but especially university students.
For a fraction of the cost you can be pampered at the International College of Camille. College head Belinda Dolan-Roberts said the service was popular with people who would not normally visit a salon.
Student Holly Rutledge has been training for a Diploma in Beauty Therapy at the college for the past 18 months.
Despite initially being "quite nerve-racking", she soon got the hang of treating customers. "We do know what we are doing, and it's a lot cheaper."
At the Manukau Institute of Technology, School of Hair and Beauty students offer treatments ranging from $10 to $80.
Tutor Sue Hugill said the service is extremely popular, with many people now regular customers.
Restaurants where students train to be chefs and work in the hospitality industry are great places to have a cheaper night out.
June Beaumont and Darrell Debenham have been patrons of AUT's Truffles and Four Seasons restaurants for years.
The city restaurants deliver an extensive menu, including ti tree-smoked salmon, braised oxtails and slow braised lamb.
"I love it here, it's relaxed, the service is amazing and the food is very good value," said Beaumont. A three-course meal will set you back just $30, less than the price of most restaurant mains. Tutor Kathy Jones calls the service "the best kept secret in Auckland" and bookings are essential.
At MIT's Palm Room Restaurant, trainee chefs do a three-course meal for $20 and a buffet for $15.
