How to Get More Local Clients Without Spending Money on Ads (NZ Guide for Events & Entertainment)
For Events & Entertainment professionals in New Zealand, building a local client base can be challenging without a big advertising budget. Fortunately, there are plenty of practical, no-cost ways to boost your visibility and reputation right in your own backyard. This guide shares 10 friendly, Kiwi-focused tips to help you attract more local clients without spending on ads.
Here are some tips that you might find interesting:
1. Create a Google Business Profile
Google Business Profile is your key to appearing in local searches like "live band near me Wellington" or "party entertainer Auckland." Optimising your profile puts you front and centre on Google Maps and search results.
Add your contact info, service details, photos or videos from recent gigs, and regularly ask happy clients to leave reviews mentioning their neighbourhood or event.
A Christchurch DJ who shares fresh content and collects reviews consistently sees more local booking requests.
2. Engage in Local Facebook and Community Groups
Many Kiwis turn to Facebook groups and Neighbourly to ask for supplier recommendations. Joining these groups lets you connect with locals actively seeking entertainers.
Approach with helpfulness rather than hard selling: offer tips, answer event questions, or share clips of your performances. This builds trust and keeps you front of mind.
Join groups like “Auckland Event Planners,” “Wellington Party Ideas,” or local community groups relevant to your area.
3. List on NZ Entertainment Directories
Yada, Eventfinda, and Yellow.co.nz are popular places where locals go to find entertainers. Listing there increases your chances of being found by the right people.
Complete your profiles with detailed service descriptions, event types, and vibrant photos or videos to boost enquiries.
An Auckland live band credits much of their steady bookings to a strong presence on these directories combined with glowing reviews.
4. Use Yada for Local Job Leads
Yada connects local entertainers with clients who are posting gigs nearby. The platform is free to join and commission-free, so you get to keep more of your earnings.
A rating system ensures reliable entertainers get more visibility. Frequent, prompt responses lead to better ratings and more gigs.
A Dunedin musician found repeat local clients by staying engaged and responding swiftly to Yada job posts.
5. Collect and Showcase Testimonials
Positive testimonials and reviews are extremely valuable in New Zealand’s tight-knit communities. Ask clients for honest feedback after every event.
Make it easy for them by sending direct review links or templates, and consider offering referral discounts for sharing reviews or recommending you.
A Christchurch event host's rave reviews have been a major driver of their growing bookings.
6. Share Performance Highlights on Social Media
Social media is your virtual stage. Share photos and short clips from gigs and rehearsals to build connection and engagement.
Use local hashtags like #AucklandLiveMusic or #WellingtonPerformers to reach nearby fans and potential clients.
An Auckland DJ built a loyal social following by sharing authentic, behind-the-scenes moments from their gigs.
7. Partner With Local Event Vendors
Build relationships with event planners, photographers, caterers, and venues to exchange referrals and create bundled packages.
A Tauranga entertainer’s collaboration with a popular venue brought regular bookings and mutual growth.
Offer to write guest posts or share tips on partners’ platforms to increase your reach.
8. Use Flyers and Community Noticeboards
Old-school flyers in libraries, cafes, and community centres still reach many locals, especially those less active online.
Design simple, appealing flyers including a photo, service highlight, and clear contact details.
A Nelson musician picked up new gigs through well-placed flyers in local community spots.
9. Host Free Local Performances
Free or low-cost community gigs and jam sessions can raise your profile and attract a loyal local audience.
Promote these events on local Facebook groups and community event calendars.
A Tauranga band’s free monthly shows have led to steady paid bookings over time.
10. Maintain Clear Communication and Reliability
Being reliable and communicative builds client trust and repeat business. Use calendars and booking systems to stay organised.
Yada’s internal chat feature helps keep all client communication in one easy-to-track place.
Consistent professionalism leads to positive reviews and more local gigs in NZ’s close communities.