How to Get More Local Clients Without Spending Money on Ads (NZ Guide for Hairdressers & Stylists)
If you’re a hairdresser or stylist in New Zealand looking to grow your local client base without spending a dime on ads, you’re in the right place. Kiwi communities value personal connections and trusted recommendations - this guide shares 10 friendly, practical tips to help you get noticed, build trust, and boost your bookings organically.
Here are some tips that you might find interesting:
1. Optimize Your Google Business Profile
Google Business Profile is a free, powerful marketing tool that helps your salon or freelance services show up when locals search for ‘hairdresser near me Auckland’ or ‘stylist Christchurch.’
Complete all sections of your profile including service details, hours, location, and photos of your work. Encourage happy clients to leave detailed reviews mentioning your locality.
One Wellington stylist saw an increase in bookings after regularly updating their profile with fresh images and client feedback.
2. Join Local Facebook and Community Groups
Kiwis often use Facebook groups and Neighbourly to find recommendations for hair and beauty professionals in their area.
Get involved by sharing hair care tips, styling advice, and showcasing your work-without hard-selling your services.
Groups like ‘Auckland Beauty Network’ or ‘Christchurch Community’ provide great opportunities to connect with potential clients.
3. List on Local Beauty Directories
Platforms such as Yada, Localist, and TradeMe Services are trusted sources for finding local hairdressers and stylists.
Use these directories to highlight your specialties, services, and client testimonials.
A Tauranga stylist increased enquiries and bookings after optimising their directory listings.
4. Respond to Job Posts on Yada
Yada connects stylists with local clients posting hair and beauty jobs, all without commissions or lead fees.
Maintain professionalism, respond promptly, and keep your rating high to attract more clients.
A Christchurch stylist gained consistent work by engaging actively on Yada.
5. Gather and Highlight Client Testimonials
In New Zealand’s close-knit communities, word-of-mouth is king. After a session, encourage clients to leave reviews you can showcase.
Make it easy by providing direct links to review sites and offer referral perks.
An Auckland hairdresser credits their client growth to positive online reviews.
6. Share Tips and Style Transformations Online
Post images and videos of hair transformations, styling tips, and product recommendations on social media.
Use local hashtags and location tags to reach your community effectively.
A Wellington stylist built a loyal local following through authentic social media sharing.
7. Partner with Complementary Local Businesses
Collaborate with salons, spas, and beauty product stores for mutual referrals.
A Nelson stylist expanded their client base through partnerships with local wellness centres.
Hosting joint promotions or events helps all businesses involved.
8. Use Flyers and Community Boards
Flyers placed in cafes, gyms, community halls, and libraries still draw attention offline.
Create compelling flyers that clearly list your services and contact details.
A Dunedin stylist boosted bookings with strategic flyer drops around popular community spots.
9. Host Free or Trial Styling Sessions
Offer complimentary try-outs or mini styling sessions to build trust and rapport.
Advertise these trials locally via social channels and community groups.
An Auckland stylist converted many trial attendees into regular clients.
10. Maintain Clear Communication and Professionalism
Reliable communication, punctual appointments, and friendly professionalism foster long-term client loyalty.
Use Yada’s internal chat to keep bookings and inquiries organised and private.
Consistent professionalism earns positive reviews and trusted referrals in New Zealand’s tight communities.