Our Story
The name Bay City was inspired by our childhood suburbs, Titahi Bay and Lyall Bay, Wellington City.
We are two Samoan Uso's that are passionate about our profession and want to share that devotion with our clients.
We look forward to meeting you, and sharing more of our journey with you.
Ken Aperila
a.k.a Toof
I have been cutting hair for nearly 13 years. I was gifted my first pair of clippers by another well respected and OG barber of the Eastern Suburbs, Mark, the owner of Kilbirnie Barbershop.
What started as a hobby, from cutting the uso's hair after school, turned into a passion for barbering and I haven't put the clippers down ever since.
This profession allows me to meet people from all walks of life, and you never know who will be sitting in your chair next. My daily objective is to connect with people and have them leave my chair not only with a fresh style but also with positive vibes for the day.
One of my many career highlights has to be getting the opportunity to cut the All Black's hair before their 2020 Bledisloe Cup Game, and just connecting with the boys.
Jaco Schmidt
a.k.a J
My interest in art began at a young age. I was always the child in class who drew instead of paying attention to the teacher. I later studied Digital Art & Design at Massey University to improve my artistic abilities.
I got into tattooing by chance in 2008 when someone observed my artwork and asked if I wanted to tattoo him. I felt nervous since I could always erase mistakes when drawing, but a tattoo is permanent. That is why I push myself to refining my craft, because it remains with someone for life, it's meaningful and they have a story to tell, and I feel honoured to be a part of it.
I've had the privilege of working with and learning from many talented artists at Tattoo City, Taupou Tatau, Sinatra's, Tattoo Machine, and more.
Tattooing Xzibit, various sports personalities, and members of the bands Six60 and Coterie were among the highlights of my career. Every client, no matter who enters through the door, is equally significant to me.
I'd like to thank my beautiful wife, our children, my family, friends, and clients' for their ongoing support of my work; I wouldn't be where I am without you all.
Jah Bless!
