The Easiest Ways to Start a Side Hustle in NZ (Even If You Have a Full-Time Job) - DJs & Musicians

Starting a side hustle as a DJ or musician in New Zealand can be a rewarding way to share your passion and earn extra income. Whether you’re spinning tracks in Auckland or performing live in Dunedin, this guide offers practical, down-to-earth tips to help you attract more local clients while balancing your full-time job.

Here are some tips that you might find interesting:

1. Understand Your Local Music Scene

Different regions in New Zealand have unique musical preferences and event cultures-from urban club nights in Auckland to live band gigs in Wellington pubs.

Weirdly enough, smaller towns often have more demand for versatile performers who can cover a range of genres for community events and weddings.

Knowing your local scene helps tailor your gigs and marketing to attract the right crowd.

2. Join Yada for Hassle-Free Gigs

Yada is a Kiwi platform designed to connect specialists like DJs and musicians with local clients without any lead or success fees.

The platform’s rating system rewards professionalism with better job matches, a big help when juggling side gigs alongside a day job.

Its mobile-friendly app makes managing bookings and messaging clients quick and easy anywhere in NZ.

3. Offer Flexible Performance Options

Providing a range of services-from DJ sets, solo musician gigs, to band bookings-can widen your appeal and increase work opportunities.

For example, an Auckland DJ expanded his side hustle by offering virtual DJ sets for online events during off-peak times.

Flexibility in package length and event type helps you fit jobs around your full-time commitments.

4. List Yourself on Music Directories

Alongside Yada, put your profile on NZ music directories and event platforms such as GigSalad, BandMix NZ, and regional Facebook groups.

A compelling profile with videos, testimonials, and clear pricing attracts serious clients and builds trust.

Being visible on multiple platforms drives steady inquiries with minimal effort.

5. Collect and Share Testimonials

Happy clients are your best promoters. Ask for quick reviews and permission to share videos or photos of your performances.

An experienced Christchurch musician boosted bookings by posting client shout-outs and event highlights across social media and Yada.

Positive word-of-mouth from genuine experiences builds your reputation quickly.

6. Build Relationships with Venues and Organisers

Networking with venue managers, wedding planners, and event organisers in your area can lead to regular gigs and referrals.

A Dunedin DJ gained seasonal steady work after partnering with local bars for regular weekend performances.

Strong community ties are critical in NZ’s close-knit entertainment industry.

7. Use Social Media Creatively

Post behind-the-scenes footage, quick mixes, or snippets of live sets to engage followers and highlight your style.

Weirdly enough, informal, authentic content often outperforms polished ads among Kiwi audiences.

Consistent posting maintains client interest and expands your local fan base.

8. Create a Simple Online Portfolio

A one-page website or Facebook business page showcasing your tracks, gigs, and contact info ups your professionalism and searchability.

Most Kiwis will check you out on mobiles, so ensure your site loads quickly and looks great on phones.

Include testimonials and a clear call to action to book you easily.

9. Manage Time and Bookings Efficiently

Yada’s internal chat and scheduling tools simplify managing client communications and avoid double bookings.

Clear availability and policy communication help you balance your side hustle with a full-time job without stress.

Good time management boosts your reliability and professionalism.

10. Keep Improving Your Skills

Keep growing as an artist by attending workshops, online courses, or local music meetups in cities like Hamilton or Wellington.

Joining groups like the New Zealand Musicians Network offers support, collaboration opportunities, and industry insights.

Continuous learning keeps your act fresh and broadens your gig possibilities.