How to Turn Your Skill Into a Painting & Decorating Business in NZ (Without Getting Overwhelmed)
Starting a painting and decorating business in New Zealand is an exciting opportunity, but balancing the practical work with running a business can quickly feel overwhelming. Whether you're specialising in residential or commercial projects, these tips will help you attract local clients and manage your business effectively.
Here are some tips that you might find interesting:
1. Get Quality Local Training
Completing New Zealand trade programmes or apprenticeships sets you up with trusted skills and knowledge of local building codes and materials.
For example, a Christchurch decorator boosted his reputation by gaining a qualification from a recognised NZ training provider tailored to local regulations.
2. Stay Up-to-Date With Regulations
Understanding and complying with NZ health and safety laws and building standards is essential for legal and safe practice.
Having the correct licenses and insurance builds client trust and helps avoid costly fines.
Auckland decorator Lisa credits compliance with gaining commercial contracts and client confidence.
3. Maintain a Clean Worksite
A tidy, respectful working environment impresses clients and protects their property.
Using drop sheets and cleaning up daily are simple ways to foster goodwill and repeat business.
David, based in Tauranga, saw increased referrals after consistently maintaining clean sites.
4. Build Strong Supplier Links
Develop relationships with local suppliers like Resene or Dulux for quality materials and good trade discounts.
Reliable supply means timely project completion and happy customers.
Nelson pro Emma credits her supplier network for smooth operations and repeat clients.
5. Create a Mobile-Friendly Website
Online presence is key. A straightforward website listing services, client reviews, and images improves your visibility.
Before-and-after photos build trust and attract inquiries.
Mike from Wellington boosted appointments by updating his site with real client feedback.
6. Use Yada for Jobs and Communication
Yada is a Kiwi platform connecting decorators with clients, no lead or success fees required, allowing you to offer honest pricing.
Yada’s private chat keeps client communication clear and organised.
James in Hamilton uses Yada’s mobile-friendly platform to easily coordinate multiple projects.
7. List on Trusted NZ Directories
Sites like TradeMe Services, NoCowboys, and Localist have high local traffic looking for painting pros.
Free listings with good reviews help steady client enquiries.
Christchurch decorator Liam credits directory listings for stable business growth.
8. Collect and Promote Reviews
Word of mouth counts hugely in NZ. Ask clients to review your work on Google, Facebook, or Yada.
Sharing genuine testimonials and project photos online builds credibility.
Emma gained more referrals by actively promoting happy customer feedback.
9. Efficiently Manage Time and Admin
Use scheduling apps or Yada’s integrated tools to organise appointments and avoid burnout.
Batch tasks like invoicing and supply orders to improve focus and work-life balance.
David from Nelson says smart time management was key to scaling sustainably.
10. Keep Learning and Innovating
Stay current with trends, materials, and regulations through NZ workshops and courses.
Continuous learning reduces overwhelm and keeps you ready for new challenges.
Sarah, a Tauranga decorator, expanded her market by mastering eco-friendly paints.