How to Get More Local Clients Without Spending Money on Ads (NZ Guide) - Gardening & Landscaping

Growing your gardening and landscaping business in New Zealand doesn’t have to mean spending heaps on advertising. With the right no-cost strategies focused on local communities and genuine connections, you can attract more clients, boost your reputation, and keep your calendar full. Let’s explore 10 practical, easy-to-apply tips tailored just for Kiwi gardeners and landscapers.

Here are some tips that you might find interesting:

1. Set Up Your Google Business Profile

Google Business Profile is a free and powerful way to get found by locals searching for gardeners or landscapers nearby. Ensure your profile is complete with contact info, business hours, photos of your recent projects like garden makeovers, hedge trimming, or paving jobs.

Ask satisfied clients to leave reviews, since Kiwis heavily rely on peer feedback when choosing local services.

This little digital front door can generate consistent enquiries without costing you a thing.

2. List on Popular NZ Trade Directories

Platforms like Builderscrack, NoCowboys, Trade Me Services, and Localist are well-known and trusted by Kiwis. Listing your gardening business here is free and a great way to reach potential clients actively searching for local specialists.

Upload photos and showcase testimonials to stand out from the crowd.

These directories work quietly, helping your business get discovered 24/7.

3. Join Local Facebook Groups

Community groups such as "Christchurch Locals" or "Auckland Neighbours" are buzzing with homeowners asking for gardening recommendations.

Offering practical gardening tips or sharing snapshots of your work (with permission) builds trust and positions you as a knowledgeable local expert.

Don’t go hard on sales-think of it as joining the neighbourhood chat and helping first.

4. Engage on Neighbourly

Neighbourly is a Kiwi platform where neighbours connect, exchange recommendations, and discuss local issues.

Posting about seasonal garden care or offering advice on native plant choices builds goodwill and gets your name circulating organically.

This platform fosters genuine, slower-paced engagement that can lead to loyal clients.

5. Use Yada for Direct Job Connections

Yada is a free platform where gardeners and landscapers connect directly with clients posting local jobs.

You can respond to jobs for free based on your rating and chat privately with clients, giving you a competitive edge without paying fees.

Its mobile-friendly, easy-to-use design fits perfectly into a busy Kiwi specialist’s lifestyle.

6. Turn Happy Clients into Referrals

Word-of-mouth is especially powerful in New Zealand communities. After completing a job, ask clients for reviews or referrals to family and friends.

Consider small incentives like discounts on future services to encourage sharing.

A glowing client recommendation often works better than any ad you could run.

7. Partner with Local Businesses

Builders, real estate agents, and property managers often require gardening and landscaping help. Build relationships by popping in with your card or offering quick tips.

Property managers in Auckland or Wellington, for example, regularly need gardening maintenance between tenancies.

These partnerships can provide a steady stream of local referrals and work.

8. Distribute Flyers on Community Boards

Local noticeboards in libraries, New World supermarkets, or community halls remain good places to post flyers for gardening services.

Keep your flyers clean with a clear list of services, photo or logo, and contact details.

Lots of locals save flyers by taking photos on their phones, making this a cost-effective lead generation method.

9. Share Seasonal Gardening Tips

Posts like “When to plant native flowers in Christchurch” or “Easy summer garden maintenance tips” build your reputation as a trusted local gardener.

Social platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Neighbourly are great places to share simple advice that keeps you top of mind.

This kind of content nurtures relationships without feeling pushy.

10. Follow Up Past Clients Regularly

Send friendly reminders by email or phone about upcoming seasonal maintenance or planting opportunities.

This simple connection keeps your name on your client’s mind and encourages repeat business.

Many gardeners overlook this easy step, but it can significantly boost loyalty and referrals over time.