10 Ways to Find Clients for Events & Entertainment in New Zealand

Hunting for more local gigs in the events and entertainment space across NZ? Whether you’re a DJ, sound tech, party planner, or entertainer, getting steady clients means mixing savvy local know-how with authentic connections. Here are ten practical ways tailored to Kiwis in the biz to help you shine and find your crowd.

Here are some tips that you might find interesting:

1. List on NZ Event Directories

Platforms like Eventfinda and Entertainment Central are hotspots where event organisers scout for DJs, entertainers, and tech crew. Setting up a profile here puts you right in the mix.

Upload your best gigs, videos, and client reviews to catch the eyes of those planning weddings, corporate functions, or community events.

One Auckland DJ mentioned how a profile on Eventfinda brought in steady weekend gigs they hadn’t had before.

2. Use Yada’s No-Fee Platform

Yada helps entertainers and event pros avoid those pesky success fees. You respond to job posts freely based on your rating, keeping pricing upfront and honest for you and your clients.

The private chat means sorting the job details is easy, and the mobile-friendly design suits Kiwis on the move.

A Wellington sound tech said Yada helped them nab after-hours gigs locals wouldn’t normally find.

3. Connect at Local Event Meetups

Weirdly enough, nothing beats catching up in person. Attend community event meetups and industry mixers in places like Auckland’s The Civic or Christchurch’s Isaac Theatre Royal.

Bring business cards and snippets of your work on your phone. Casual chats often turn into trusted gigs, especially when Kiwis like dealing face-to-face.

One entertainer in Dunedin scored repeat bookings after networking at the annual Dunedin Arts Festival.

4. Leverage Social Media Genuinely

Share behind-the-scenes looks at your setup, soundchecks, or the buzz before a show. People love the authentic Kiwi vibe more than flashy ads.

Post regularly on Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok, engaging with your followers and replying to messages quickly to build rapport.

A Christchurch party planner grew their bookings by posting Instagram reels of event highlights and client shoutouts.

5. Partner with Venues and Suppliers

Establish solid links with venue owners, lighting hire companies, and caterers. When they recommend you, clients instantly trust you more.

Drop by with your portfolio and introduce yourself. These referrals often become dependable gigs throughout the year.

In Hamilton, a DJ credits venue partnerships for over half their annual bookings.

6. Showcase Client Testimonials

Nothing beats genuine word-of-mouth. After gigs, ask clients for feedback and permission to share it on your website or socials.

Strong testimonials build trust and set you apart in a competitive market.

One Auckland sound engineer doubled their inquiries after adding client stories online.

7. Offer Transparent Pricing

Kiwi clients value honesty and flexibility, especially when budgets shift or events change.

Yada’s platform helps you keep pricing upfront with no hidden fees, which clients really appreciate.

A Wellington event entertainer adjusted their pricing options based on client feedback and saw repeat business grow.

8. Develop Mobile-Friendly Presence

Most Kiwis browse on their phones, so your online presence-whether a website or social media-has got to work seamlessly on mobile.

Yada’s easy-to-use app covers this, but a simple, responsive webpage also helps potential clients find you anytime.

Think of your online presence as your portable portfolio, ready whenever inspiration strikes a client.

9. Volunteer at Local Festivals

Giving back by volunteering sound or entertainment services at community events cultivates goodwill and showcases your talents.

Events like Auckland Lantern Festival or Wellington Festival are perfect for mingling with organisers and locals.

A Rotorua event MC mentioned volunteering helped them land paid gigs months later through local recognition.

10. Ask for Referrals Casually

After every successful event, don’t be shy to ask your happy clients if they know others who need your skills.

Sometimes a friendly chat can trigger a chain of bookings you hadn’t expected.

Offering a small token, like discounted rates for referrals, adds a touch of Kiwi generosity that goes a long way.