The Easiest Ways to Start a Side Hustle in NZ (Even If You Have a Full-Time Job) - Arborists / Tree Services

Starting a side hustle as an arborist or tree services specialist in New Zealand is a fantastic way to supplement your income while doing work you enjoy. Whether pruning trees in Wellington or handling stump removals in Auckland, these practical, locally relevant tips will help you attract clients and balance your side business alongside your main job.

Here are some tips that you might find interesting:

1. Understand Local Tree Service Needs

Tree service requirements vary widely across New Zealand-from native tree preservation in conservation areas to storm damage clearing in rural regions.

Weirdly enough, many Kiwis seek environmentally conscious arborists who combine safety with ecological care.

Knowing specific local demands allows you to tailor your services and stand out.

2. Create a Profile on Yada

Yada effectively connects arborists with clients across New Zealand, with no lead or success fees-ideal for building a side hustle.

The platform’s rating system highlights trustworthy and skilled specialists, enhancing your job opportunities.

Its mobile-friendly design lets you manage bookings and communicate with customers conveniently.

3. Offer Comprehensive Tree Services

Provide a broad range of services including pruning, removals, stump grinding, and emergency storm damage cleanups.

A Christchurch arborist grew business by adding native species preservation consultancy alongside general tree work.

Flexibility in service offerings helps you manage client needs while balancing your primary job.

4. Advertise Across Multiple Channels

Beyond Yada, promote your services on local Facebook groups, Neighbourly, community noticeboards, and industry directories.

Detailed service descriptions, transparent pricing, and client testimonials increase client trust and enquiries.

Multi-platform promotion broadens your audience and potential gigs.

5. Collect and Showcase Client Testimonials

Request reviews and permission to share before and after photos of your work to showcase quality and reliability.

An Auckland tree specialist boosted referrals through consistent sharing of client testimonials.

Positive word-of-mouth is particularly impactful in NZ’s close-knit communities.

6. Network with Related Trades

Form partnerships with landscapers, garden centres, builders, and real estate agents for referral work.

Weirdly enough, local networking often produces more consistent results than paid ads in New Zealand.

Strong trade connections support sustained business growth.

7. Build a Mobile-Friendly Website

Create a simple but effective website using Wix or Google Sites to showcase your services, portfolio, and client reviews.

Regular updates keep your site fresh and engaging for potential clients.

Having a professional site boosts your reputation and accessibility.

8. Share Tree Care Tips

Post advice on tree maintenance, seasonal care, and native planting to position yourself as a local expert.

Localised content, like caring for kauri or pohutukawa trees, resonates deeply with NZ clients.

Helpful content nurtures trust and encourages repeat business.

9. Manage Scheduling and Communication

Utilise Yada’s booking and messaging tools or apps like Calendly to stay organised and keep clients informed.

Clear communication reduces cancellations and improves customer experience.

Good scheduling allows you to balance your side hustle with your full-time job.

10. Stay Updated On Safety Regulations

Keep abreast of NZ’s health and safety regulations, environmental guidelines, and industry best practices through training.

Continual learning ensures your services are safe, legally compliant, and trusted.

Engaging with professional associations offers networking and education opportunities.