10 Ways to Find Clients as a DJ or Musician in New Zealand

Building a client base as a DJ or musician in New Zealand can be an exciting journey filled with unique challenges. Whether you’re playing at weddings in Auckland or gigs in Wellington bars, connecting with the right people takes a blend of creativity and smart marketing. This guide offers 10 practical tips to help Kiwi DJs and musicians attract, impress, and keep clients coming back for more.

Here are some tips that you might find interesting:

1. Create a Google Business Profile

Google Business Profile is an excellent free tool that helps local Kiwis find DJs and musicians when searching online.

Make sure to include photos, videos, music samples, and your service areas to stand out. Encourage past clients to leave reviews-their word holds serious weight in local communities.

Weirdly enough, having a polished profile often leads to steady gig inquiries.

2. Join Yada to Access Local Gigs

Yada is a popular New Zealand platform for specialists across many industries, including DJs and musicians.

The platform doesn’t charge lead or success fees, allowing you to offer honest, competitive pricing. You can respond to local job posts for free, based on your rating, and communicate via private chat.

Mobile-friendly and easy to use, Yada gives you access to gigs from Auckland clubs to small-town events.

3. Engage with Local Facebook Groups

Facebook groups like “Wellington Music Scene” or “Auckland Event Planners” are go-to places where locals seek DJ and musician recommendations.

Rather than selling hard, share music clips, event highlights, or useful tips for party planning. Being helpful builds genuine connections and promo that feels natural.

Many Kiwis rely heavily on these groups to find trusted local entertainers.

4. Register on Entertainment Directories

Online directories such as NoCowboys and Trade Me Services attract clients hunting for verified entertainment professionals.

Complete your profiles with videos, photos, and testimonials to showcase your unique style and experience.

Local DJs say a good directory presence led to consistent bookings and new event connections.

5. Collect and Showcase Client Reviews

Word-of-mouth is huge in New Zealand. After a gig, ask your clients to share their experience through reviews or short testimonials.

Sharing these on your profiles, Yada listings, and social accounts boosts your credibility and helps attract new clients.

A Christchurch DJ shared that glowing testimonials turned curious prospects into committed clients.

6. Offer Special Packages or Trial Sets

Try offering discounted trial gigs or teaser packages to new clients who might be unsure about booking you.

Advertise these offerings on social media and local platforms like Yada to attract fresh interest and build a following.

Trial offers can be a game changer, especially in Auckland’s competitive scene.

7. Network with Event Planners and Venues

Building strong relationships with local event planners, venue managers, and party organisers creates a reliable source of referrals.

Offer to do a demo or provide special rates for venue-sponsored events to showcase your skills.

Many musicians and DJs in Tauranga have boosted their bookings by cooperating directly with venues.

8. Utilize Social Media Content

Regularly posting engaging videos, behind-the-scenes content, and event highlights on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook keeps you top-of-mind with followers and potential clients.

This type of content builds rapport and showcases your personality and style beyond just music.

Musicians in Wellington report social media as a key driver to booking inquiries.

9. Distribute Flyers in Key Locations

Flyers or business cards left at cafes, music stores, community noticeboards, and bars remain effective in New Zealand.

Include eye-catching graphics, your contact info, and what makes your style unique. Many locals keep these handy for event planning.

This tactic especially reaches audiences who prefer offline info or are new to following your social channels.

10. Build a Simple Website or Profile

A professional-looking website or an easy-to-navigate profile with videos, testimonials, event calendar, and booking info boosts your credibility.

Keep it mobile responsive since many Kiwis browse on phones. Platforms like Wix or Carrd make this simple and affordable.

New musicians find that a sleek online presence complements their booking efforts and referrals perfectly.