I'm cutting off my hair to support Women's Refuge. It's long, I don't need it, and other people have lost much more.

With the losses and sacrifices of the Covid-19 crisis adding to the already high rates of domestic violence, Women's Refuge plays an integral role in helping women and children in Aotearoa.

With loss in mind, I am cutting off my hair to raise money for the charity. After five years of growing it, it's full of memories. It's also a source of vanity, something that doesn't sit right with me at this time. With others losing a great deal already, and likely more to come, the least I can lose is my hair.

I was inspired by Anjali from the local fashion brand Twenty-seven Names, who shaved her head recently to raise awareness and money for Women's Refuge. I'd like to say I'm brave enough to go as short as her, but most likely I'll be looking at a very short bob.

All proceeds from this page will go directly to Women's Refuge. Colleen salon will be lopping off my hair, and have kindly donated their time and expertise. Photographer Ophelia King also donated her time and skills to document the before and after.

In addition to supporting Women's Refuge, as my hair is long and undyed I will be giving the hair to Freedom Wigs, and instead of accepting reimbursement, the amount will go towards subsidising a wig for someone whose financial situation makes buying a wig difficult.

I encourage you to donate, if you are in a position to do so, and thank you for your support.

Also, sorry to everyone who told me to never cut my hair. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

xx