Welcome to Straight Up Studios
Straight Up Studios is a creative hub made for people who love great nails, good vibes, and a relaxed space to unwind. We’re the home of Straight Up Nails, where our talented team delivers high-end manicures that leave you feeling fresh, pampered, and totally taken care of. Our certified and experienced nail techs are here to bring your nail ideas to life—whatever your style.
We’ve also got a tattooist downstairs, and we’re excited to grow and add even more services soon.
Come hang out with us at our easygoing studio at 298 Titirangi Road, West Auckland—we’d love to see you.A quick heads up:
We’ve got a pretty alternative vibe in our studio—perfect for adults, but probably not the place kids are dreaming of (between the loud art, strong coffee aromas, occasional swear words, and our love of unfiltered chats). So here’s a friendly heads-up: nail appointments are for ages 16 and up, and tattoo services are R18. It keeps things fun, safe, and perfectly in tune with our little corner of chaos!
Meet The Team
Alisha
Studio Owner
Hey, I’m Alisha! I first qualified as a Nail Technician with Monaco Nail Academy in early 2021 when I was 15 years old. I then went onto work part-time and full-time at two other local salons for the next two years before opening my own home salon. In November of 2025 I have now opened my studio here at 298 Titirangi Road, West Auckland. Throughout this time I have been consistently learning and upskilling to become the best I can be. I hold nationally and internationally recognised certifications in Nail Theory and Anatomy, Gel Polish Manicures and Pedicures, Acrylgel, Acrylic, Soft Gel Extensions, Electric File and Specialised Russian Manicures.
In 2025 I became a National Multi-Award Winning Nail Technician at the New Zealand National Nail competition, placing first in my division in five categories.
In my spare time you can find me cooking, painting + drawing, listening to music and spending time with loved ones.
I create epic nails for everybody in a safe and hygienic space - specialising in Structured Russian Manicures and intricate hand-painted nail art.
When I’m not upstairs using your nails as my mini canvases, you can find me downstairs tattooing! Check out our ‘Tattoo’ tab at the top of the page for more information.
Rachael
Nail Technician in Training
I am currently Training with Monaco Nail Academy to become a Nail Technician.
I have qualified in The Theory Of Nails and Gel Manicures, and am currently working my way through Builder Gel, E-File and Gel Extensions.
In my spare time you can find me with my main man Sarge - the German Shepherd, spending time with family and friends and enjoying a cheeky margarita or two.
I’m so grateful to have this amazing new opportunity at this stage of my life.
I can’t wait to meet you and create a pampered and relaxing experience for my clients.
Heidi
PA/Social Media Manager
I am currently training with Monaco Nail Academy to become a nail technician and am loving it so far. You’ll most often find me either behind the reception desk singing along to our vibey tunes, or chasing the team around with a camera creating content for our social media platforms. Outside of Straight Up, I teach Musical Theatre and Acro Dance, and perform as often as I can. I’m so excited to be a part of the Straight Up Nails team and can’t wait to begin my work as a nail technician.
Corey
Tattooist
Corey is one of our incredible tattoo artists based in our downstairs studio. To learn more about his work and how to get in touch, head to our ‘Tattoo’ tab at the top of the page!
Nail Services
Afterpay AvailableNail Services 16+
Why We Don’t Recommend Nail Services for Anyone Under 16Here’s the scoop: nails aren’t fully developed until around age 15 or 16. Younger teens and children have softer, thinner nail plates and delicate cuticles.
Even small treatments—like pushing back cuticles—can unintentionally damage the nail matrix and potentially affect how nails grow, sometimes permanently. The matrix in younger nails is still maturing; it produces keratin cells that are more moisture-rich, less densely packed, and less resistant to repeated stress.
For kids and young teens, sticking to traditional nail polish or age-appropriate manicures is the safest way to keep nails healthy—and looking cute!
Russian Style Structured Gel Manicure - Shorter Nails $95.00
Russian Style Structured Gel Manicure - Longer Nails $110.00A Russian Style Structured Gel Manicure starts with Russian Manicure prep removing all dead skin and debris to expose the nail plate. A layer of Builder Gel is then applied to create strength and structure to your natural nail.Full Set Of Gel Extensions $100.00Gel Extensions are a full cover extension which is attached to the whole of your nail, not just the tip. They are strong and add some extra length. The same Russian Manicure prep is completed before your extensions are applied.
Gel Extensions can be infilled with builder gel, or soaked off as they are a full gel product.Natural Manicure $40.00A natural manicure is great for those wanting to tidy up their nails without any polish. Our Natural Manicure includes cuticle work, shaping and buffing. The service is finished with a hand scrub, hot towel and hand cream.Basic Gel Manicure $60.00-65.00Looking for a quick mani? This service covers a basic Gel Manicure using a Rubber Base for strength. Please add on nail art separately. Service is finished with hand cream and cuticle oil.Basic Gel Pedicure $40.00Please note this is a very basic pedicure. You will be sitting across from us with your feet up on our lap. Includes E-File cuticle work, buff + shape then Gel Polish colour. Service is finished with a hot towel, foot cream and cuticle oil.Hand Painted Nail Art From $2.50-$20.00
Classic French Tips $5.00Gel Polish Soak Off $25.00
Gel Extention Soak Off $30.00
SNS/Acrylic Soak Off $40.00A soak off will remove your gel/builder gel safely, leaving your natural nails healthy. Natural nails are manicured, followed by a hot towel and massage.Nail Repair $5.00-10.00Re-application of base/extension/colour at or in-between appointments. This is for if you've broken a nail. Unfortunately it happens.
*Please note this is for one nail. If the damage occurred within the first week of your last appointment repair will be free.
Tattoos R18 Only
Corey
My tattoo journey began in 2002 after completing an apprenticeship under renowned Japanese–Brazilian tattooist Jun Matsui. I spent a total of 15 years living in Japan, and during that time I tattooed for six years at Life Under Zen, where I was fortunate to collaborate with incredible artists and further develop my craft.I specialise in Blackwork, Pacific and Polynesian styles, pattern work, geometric pieces, and dotwork. In 2008 I returned to New Zealand and opened my own studio, Monk3ys, while continuing to travel regularly to Europe for guest spots as I worked to refine and broaden my skills.Drawing and design have always been a passion of mine. Most of my work is freestyle-drawn directly onto the body to ensure the piece flows naturally and fits each individual perfectly. I enjoy creating bold, powerful designs as much as intricate, fine-line work, and I’m equally at home with large-scale projects or smaller “one-point” pieces.My aim is to provide every client with excellent workmanship paired with friendly, personal service in a safe and hygienic environment. I’m always keen to talk tattoos and meet new people — and if your idea isn’t something I personally take on, I’m more than happy to recommend an artist who will suit your vision.Thanks for taking the time to check out my work!
Instagram: @monk3ystattoo
Facebook: monk3ys
Alisha
Hey! I’m Alisha, the Studio Owner.
I started my tattoo journey back in early 2022 at New Lines Tattoo Studio In Titirangi, where I spent a couple of amazing years learning and working with John Feary before we all headed off to do our own thing.
In early 2024 I opened my at-home nail salon, which meant I wasn’t tattooing full time for a bit. I still kept my hand in with the odd tattoo here and there, but I’m super excited to have a dedicated space where I can be creative with both tattoos and nails.
I specialise in fine line work, but I also love bringing a slightly darker edge into a lot of my pieces.
If you’d like to enquire about a tattoo, just fill out the form below with any questions and reference photos. Or you can hit the ‘Book Now’ button at the top of the page to book a consultation. I can’t wait to work with you and create something you’ll love forever.
Instagram: @alishaholdentattoo
Nail Training + Education
I work closely with Monaco Nail Academy as a Bronze Monaco Accredited Training Partner (MATP).
Whether you’re already a Nail Technician looking to upskill, or are completely new to the nail world, I’m able to provide you with the most safe and up to date training content and lessons.I’m based out of Studio at 298 Titirangi Road, West Auckland. I have created a safe and welcoming space that is perfect to learn in. My students are my main priority. Whatever your learning style, I will do my best to accommodate and make sure you’re comfortable throughout the training process.If you’re interested in 1-on-1 in person training with me, or would just like more information. Please use the form below.Afterpay Available.
Available Courses:
The Theory Of Nails
- 7+ Hours of pre recorded video content.
- The cost includes completing all recorded content in person.
- 1 Hour written exam, you have unlimited attempts to pass.
From $649.00
Manicures And Pedicures
- 8+ Hours of pre recorded video content.
- 8 Hours of in person lessons.
- 2 Hours for in person assessment.
- The total course allowance time is 14weeks.
From $879.00
Builder In A Bottle
- 13+ Hours of pre recorded video content.
- 6 Hours of in person lessons.
- 3 Hours for in person assessment.
- The total course allowance time is 10 weeks.
From $909.00
Pre-Formed Soft Gel Extensions
- 4+ Hours of pre recorded video content.
- 3 Hours of in person lessons.
- There is no assessment for this course.
- The total course allowance time is 2 weeks.
From $299.00
E-File
- 4+ Hours of pre recorded video content.
- 9 Hours of in person lessons.
- 3 Hours for in person assessment.
- There total course allowance time is 4 weeks
From $719.00
Natural Nail Specialist - Covering: The Theory Of Nails, Manicures And Pedicures, Builder In a Bottle + The Art Of Nails
- 35+ Hours of pre recorded video content.
- 24 Hours of in person lessons
- 1 Hour written ‘The Theory Of Nails’ exam, you have unlimited attempts to pass.
- 2 Hour ‘Manicure And Pedicure’ assessment.
- 3 Hour ‘Builder In A Bottle’ assessment.
- The total course allowance time is 16 weeks.
From $2,029.00
Contact
Address: 298 Titirangi Road, Titirangi, Auckland 0604
By Appointment Only
