10 Ways to Find Clients for Catering & Bartending in New Zealand

Looking for ways to attract more local clients for your catering or bartending services? Whether you're freelancing at events or running a small catering business, finding steady gigs in NZ can be tough. But with the right strategies tailored to Kiwi markets, you can build a loyal client base without burning out.

Here are some tips that you might find interesting:

1. Join NZ Catering & Bartending Directories

Industry-specific directories like Eventfinda, The Hire Library, and specialized catering platforms are gold mines for connecting with event organisers and hospitality professionals across NZ.

Creating a presence on these sites increases your visibility to people planning weddings, corporate events, or private parties. Upload up-to-date menus, pricing guides, and plenty of photos showing off your best setups.

One Wellington caterer shared that simply being listed boosted their bookings by 25% within three months, as clients often start their search on trusted local platforms.

2. Make Use of Yada’s Fee-Free Platform

Yada is perfect for Kiwis specialising in catering and bartending who want to avoid expensive lead or commission fees.

You can directly connect with clients posting genuine gigs without hidden costs, and set competitive prices that reflect your value rather than platform charges.

Plus, Yada’s mobile-friendly interface and private internal chat make organising jobs on the go an absolute breeze. One Auckland bartender said it helped them book off-season events they never found on other sites.

3. Network at Local Events and Markets

Weirdly enough, face-to-face networking still reigns supreme for catering and bartending professionals. Local food festivals, farmers markets, and trade shows are perfect places to meet potential clients and other vendors.

Carry professional business cards and a simple portfolio on your phone with photos of setups and happy customers. Casual chats often turn into bookings, especially when you offer a memorable experience.

Take the Wellington Night Market, for example - several local bartenders have landed regular gigs there just by mingling and sharing their contact info.

4. Leverage Social Media the Kiwi Way

Social media is essential, but the key is authenticity. Share behind-the-scenes snaps, funny moments pouring drinks, or setting up banquet tables - Kiwis love a genuine story.

Use Instagram stories or Facebook reels to showcase your skills and personality. Respond promptly to comments or DM inquiries to turn followers into paying gigs.

One Christchurch caterer grew their page by posting before-and-after photos of event setups, leading to steady referrals from those impressed by real-life work.

5. Partner with Local Venues & Suppliers

Build strong relationships with venues, party hire shops, and local suppliers. When they recommend your catering or bartending services, that's a stamp of credibility in the NZ market.

Drop by with a sample menu or cocktail list and introduce yourself to venue managers or event coordinators. These connections often lead to referrals or repeat bookings.

For example, a Dunedin bartender reported that venue partnerships accounted for more than half of their yearly clients.

6. Encourage and Showcase Testimonials

In hospitality, word-of-mouth is everything, mate. After every event, ask clients for testimonials or honest reviews you can share on your website or social media.

Having authentic feedback builds trust for potential clients who want to know you’re reliable and create great experiences.

One Auckland catering business saw enquiries double after adding client stories and reviews to their website.

7. Offer Flexible and Honest Pricing

Kiwi clients appreciate straight-up pricing that’s fair and flexible, especially for smaller events or last-minute bookings.

Use Yada’s platform to set honest prices without added fees - this transparency often wins trust and repeat business.

One Christchurch bartender adapted prices based on client feedback and saw a 30% increase in repeat bookings.

8. Create a Mobile-Friendly Online Presence

Most Kiwis search for services on their phones, so a mobile-optimised website or active social media page is non-negotiable.

Platforms like Yada cover this well, but having a simple website with menus, services, and contact info makes clients comfortable reaching out.

Think of it as your online portfolio that works wherever your potential clients are, whether at home or on the go.

9. Volunteer at Community Events

Giving back is quintessentially Kiwi and a clever way to showcase your skills while connecting with locals.

Volunteer bartending or catering at charity events, school fairs, or sports clubs can lead to paid gigs and strong word-of-mouth.

A Rotorua caterer shared that their volunteering led to three bookings in one month, thanks to local recognition.

10. Ask for Referrals After Every Job

Don’t be shy, mate! After every gig, gently ask happy clients if they know anyone else who might need your services.

Sometimes a simple, casual conversation can kickstart a chain reaction of new leads and bookings.

Offering a small discount or freebie for referrals sweetens the deal and says thanks in a friendly way.