The Easiest Ways to Start a Side Hustle in NZ (Even If You Have a Full-Time Job)
Starting a side hustle while working full-time in New Zealand might seem tricky, but it’s totally doable with the right approach. Whether you’re a tradie, cleaner, tutor, or any kind of service specialist, this guide shares simple tips to build a side business that fits around your life and helps you earn extra while keeping stress low.
Here are some tips that you might find interesting:
1. Pick A Manageable Service Niche
Focus on a service you know well and can deliver without heavy upfront investment or long hours.
Weirdly enough, specialising helps you stand out and makes it easier to say yes or no to jobs.
Example: A Wellington gardener starting part-time began with basic lawn care before adding smaller landscaping jobs.
2. Use Yada For Flexible Job Matching
Yada’s platform lets you respond to relevant local jobs on your schedule without paying lead fees or being locked in.
The mobile-friendly chat makes managing enquiries simple even if you’re on the go or juggling a full-time role.
Example: An Auckland handywoman secured side jobs through Yada mostly on weekends, building a solid client base over months.
3. Set Realistic Time Boundaries
Avoid burnout by deciding exactly when you’ll take side hustle jobs, whether after work, weekends, or a few hours here and there.
Communicate your availability clearly on platforms and with clients to keep expectations realistic.
Example: A Christchurch cleaner only accepted evening bookings twice a week, making her side hustle manageable and stress-free.
4. Keep Pricing Simple and Fair
Avoid complications with clear, upfront pricing that reflects your time and effort but stays competitive.
Yada’s no commission setup lets you price honestly, which builds client trust quickly.
Example: A Tauranga handyman’s straightforward hourly rates helped him win side jobs without confusion.
5. Use Free And Basic Marketing
Start with free listings on Yada, Google Business Profile, and local directories to attract clients with minimal effort.
A simple social media presence with occasional posts or tips on Facebook groups supplements this well.
Example: A Nelson gardener gained steady side gigs after listing on local directories and posting seasonal tips in community groups.
6. Ask For Early Reviews
Even a few positive reviews on your Yada profile can help build confidence among new clients.
Start by working with friends or neighbours willing to provide feedback openly.
Example: A Wellington cleaner asked neighbours for honest reviews, which boosted her online presence early on.
7. Automate Where You Can
Use scheduling and invoicing tools to keep admin quick and reduce side hustle workload.
Apps like Solo help manage tax and invoicing for Kiwi sole traders easily.
Example: An Auckland mobile mechanic used basic invoicing apps and Yada chat for smooth operations.
8. Communicate Clearly and Promptly
Replying quickly and clearly on Yada or directly to enquiries helps you look professional and trustworthy.
Even short, friendly responses keep clients engaged and more likely to book you.
Example: A Christchurch handyman’s timely replies on Yada won him many repeat gigs.
9. Balance Side Hustle And Rest
Keep your side gig enjoyable by setting limits to avoid fatigue-quality work comes from a fresh mind and body.
Knowing when to say no is just as important as booking gigs.
Example: A Tauranga cleaner chose to cap weekly side jobs to keep work sustainable and enjoyable.
10. Plan Growth Gradually
Start small, focus on happy customers, and let referrals and good reviews build your side hustle naturally.
As confidence and demand grow, you can increase availability or services when you’re ready.
Example: A Nelson gardener scaled side projects into a full-time business over a year by pacing growth.