How to Get More Local Clients Without Spending Money on Ads (NZ Guide for Entertainers)
For entertainers in New Zealand, making your mark and attracting local clients can feel like a challenge without spending on ads. But the good news is, there are plenty of smart, no-cost ways to get noticed, build your reputation, and book more gigs right in your neighbourhood. This guide shares 10 practical tips tailored specifically for Kiwi entertainers wanting to grow their local following.
Here are some tips that you might find interesting:
1. Set Up Your Google Business Profile
Your Google Business Profile acts as a digital billboard for local clients searching for entertainers like "magician near me Auckland" or "live band Wellington." A well-maintained profile gets you front and centre in local search results.
Fill in your contact info, service details, performance styles, and upload photos or videos from past shows. Encourage satisfied clients to leave reviews mentioning the suburbs or towns where events took place.
A Christchurch entertainer who regularly updated their profile with local event photos and positive reviews has seen a steady increase in bookings.
2. Join Local Facebook and Community Groups
Facebook groups and Neighbourly are buzzing with event organisers and locals seeking entertainment for weddings, birthdays, and community events.
Rather than hard-selling, offer genuine advice, share past show highlights, or post behind-the-scenes clips. This approach builds trust and positions you as a local expert without feeling pushy.
Look for groups like “Auckland Event Planners,” “Wellington Birthday Parties,” or your neighbourhood community pages to connect authentically.
3. List Yourself on NZ Entertainment Directories
Directories such as Yada, Eventfinda, and Yellow.co.nz cater to the local entertainment market. Listing yourself here puts you in front of people actively searching for entertainers.
Complete your profile with detailed descriptions, pricing options, service areas, and client testimonials to boost your enquiries.
A Tauranga magician gained regular bookings after creating engaging profiles on multiple directories combined with glowing client reviews.
4. Respond to Job Posts on Yada
Yada is a fast-growing NZ platform for connecting clients with specialists, including entertainers. Job posts for events, festivals, and private gigs are regularly listed.
Responding is free, and positive ratings improve your visibility and increase your daily response limit. The platform’s messaging keeps communication private and organised.
A Wellington musical act credits Yada for helping them build a solid local client base through timely responses and consistent service.
5. Collect and Showcase Testimonials
Kiwi word-of-mouth is mighty powerful. After every show or event, ask clients to provide short testimonials you can share on your website and social media.
Make leaving reviews easy by providing links or templates. Consider offering small referral discounts to encourage sharing.
A Christchurch event host increased bookings by 40% in months by actively showcasing client feedback and success stories.
6. Share Your Performances on Social Media
Post photos and short clips of your performances on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok to give potential clients a taste of your act.
Use local hashtags (#AucklandEntertainment, #ChristchurchEvents) to reach nearby clients.
A Dunedin juggler built a strong online following by sharing authentic, fun backstage moments alongside his shows.
7. Partner with Local Event Providers
Collaborate with event planners, venue owners, photographers, and caterers who serve your target audience. Cross-referrals can drive bookings for everyone involved.
For example, an Auckland face painter teamed up with party entertainers and photographers to offer package deals, boosting all partners’ client bases.
You could also offer to contribute tips or feature in their newsletters or social channels to increase exposure.
8. Utilise Flyers and Community Boards
Traditional flyers still work well in New Zealand’s communities. Display your flyers on noticeboards in libraries, cafes, event centres, and supermarkets.
Keep flyers simple: include a clear photo or logo, your entertainment type, contact details, and any ongoing specials.
A Wellington magician found flyers at local community centres brought steady local gigs, especially around public holidays.
9. Host Free Local Demos or Workshops
Offer free or low-cost performances or workshops in parks, community halls, or libraries to showcase your talent and get known in your area.
These events help build word-of-mouth referrals, especially if you engage families and local groups enthusiastically.
A Christchurch comedian ran free comedy nights that led to paid bookings from local businesses and event organisers.
10. Maintain Clear Communication and Reliability
As a self-employed entertainer, keeping schedules and details tight is crucial. Use digital calendars, booking tools, and maintain open communication with clients.
Yada’s internal chat platform helps keep bookings and details in one place, reducing misunderstandings and boosting client confidence.
Consistent professionalism leads to glowing reviews and repeat work in NZ’s close-knit event communities.