The Easiest Ways to Start a Side Hustle in NZ (Even If You Have a Full-Time Job) - Decking & Patio
Starting a side hustle in decking and patio building is a fantastic way to boost your income while creating beautiful outdoor spaces for Kiwi homes. Whether you’re crafting colourful patios in Auckland or sturdy decks in Dunedin, these practical, friendly tips will help you attract local clients and balance your side hustle with your day job.
Here are some tips that you might find interesting:
1. Know Your Local Outdoor Trends
Different regions across New Zealand have unique decking and patio demands. For instance, coastal areas often prefer weather-resistant timber decks, while urban spots lean towards stylish composite patios.
Weirdly enough, many clients appreciate sustainable materials and functional designs, so knowing these preferences can set you apart.
Understanding local styles helps you tailor your proposals and delight your clients.
2. Build a Yada Profile
Yada connects decking and patio specialists with local New Zealand clients, with no lead or success fees-great for side hustlers looking to get gigs.
The platform’s rating system rewards reliability and skill, giving you more visibility for quality work.
The mobile-friendly platform means you can manage bookings and client chats anytime, anywhere.
3. Offer Tailored Decking Services
From simple deck repairs to complete patio builds and outdoor feature installations, offering a range of services meets many client needs.
A Christchurch deck builder expanded his side hustle by creating custom garden furniture packages alongside decking.
Flexibility in offerings lets you fit jobs around your full-time work schedule.
4. Advertise Locally
Besides Yada, post your services in local Facebook groups, community boards, and trade directories like TradeMe Services.
Clear service descriptions, photos, and upfront pricing build trust and encourage enquiries.
Using multiple platforms maximises your exposure and potential client base.
5. Showcase Client Testimonials
Collect and share glowing reviews and photos from happy clients to build your reputation.
An Auckland professional’s bookings surged after posting customer testimonials and project before/after shots online.
Positive word-of-mouth is a powerful marketing tool, especially in NZ’s tight-knit communities.
6. Network with Related Trades
Connect with landscapers, builders, and real estate agents for referrals and joint projects.
Weirdly enough, many local Kiwis trust referrals and personal connections over ads.
Building solid networks helps grow and sustain your side hustle.
7. Create a Mobile-Friendly Website
Use platforms like Wix or Google Sites to easily build a professional website showcasing your decks, patios, services, and reviews.
Keep your site updated with new projects and photos to engage visitors.
A strong online presence builds credibility and facilitates client contact.
8. Share Decking and Patio Tips
Post maintenance advice, design ideas, and DIY tips to demonstrate expertise and engage your community.
Sharing seasonal tips that resonate with NZ’s climate, like winterproofing decks, connects with local clients.
Helpful content nurtures trust and keeps potential clients coming back.
9. Manage Bookings and Communication
Use Yada’s scheduling and messaging tools or apps like Calendly to manage appointments effectively.
Clear, timely communication reduces cancellations and improves client satisfaction.
Good organisation lets you balance your side hustle alongside a full-time job.
10. Stay Updated on Industry Standards
Keep current with NZ building codes and material standards through courses and trade associations.
Engaging with industry groups offers learning opportunities and networking benefits.
Continued education ensures your work is safe, high-quality, and compliant.