The Easiest Ways to Start a Side Hustle in NZ (Even If You Have a Full-Time Job) - Hairdressers / Stylists
Starting a side hustle as a hairdresser or stylist in New Zealand is a fantastic way to boost your income and share your passion for beauty and style. Whether you work part-time in Auckland or offer mobile styling in Rotorua, these practical tips will help you attract local clients and manage your side hustle with ease alongside your full-time job.
Here are some tips that you might find interesting:
1. Understand Local Hair Trends
New Zealand's diverse communities have varying style preferences, from classic cuts favored in smaller towns to edgy trends popular in urban centres like Auckland and Wellington.
Weirdly enough, clients appreciate stylists who offer personalised consultations that consider local lifestyle and climate.
Staying updated on these preferences helps tailor your services and build client loyalty.
2. Create a Profile on Yada
Yada is an excellent New Zealand platform that connects hairdressers and stylists with local clients, without charging lead or success fees.
The rating system encourages high-quality service and helps you gain visibility and trustworthy reviews.
The mobile-friendly app lets you manage bookings, communicate with clients, and respond to job requests flexibly.
3. Offer Diverse Service Packages
Provide a range of options such as quick trims, colour treatments, bridal styling, and personalised hair care advice to appeal to broader client segments.
In Tauranga, stylists offering mobile services to busy mums have found strong demand.
Flexibility and variety allow you to balance your side hustle with other commitments effectively.
4. List Your Services on Local Platforms
Beyond Yada, register on community boards, salon listings, and Facebook groups focused on beauty and local networking.
Showcase your portfolio with photos, explain your specialties, and include client testimonials to draw interest.
Multi-platform exposure increases your chances to attract steady bookings.
5. Gather and Showcase Testimonials
Encourage satisfied clients to leave reviews and share their new looks to build social proof.
A Christchurch stylist boosted her side hustle profile by regularly posting before-and-after photos and client feedback on social media.
Authentic testimonials foster trust and encourage bookings.
6. Network with Complementary Businesses
Collaborate with makeup artists, photographers, and event planners for mutual referrals and package deals.
An Auckland stylist expanded her reach through partnerships with local bridal boutiques and salons.
Networking strengthens your business foundation and clientele base.
7. Create a Simple Website or Portfolio
Use easy platforms like Wix or Google Sites to build a clean, mobile-optimised website showcasing your work and contact info.
Keep it updated with testimonials, pricing, and photos of your latest styles.
A professional online presence inspires confidence and simplifies client enquiries.
8. Share Hairstyling Tips Online
Posting quick styling hacks, hair care advice, or trend alerts on Instagram or Facebook helps engage your audience.
Weirdly enough, authentic and relatable content connects better with local clients than traditional ads.
This builds ongoing relationships and brand loyalty.
9. Manage Scheduling and Communication
Use Yada’s built-in chat and booking tools or apps like Calendly to stay organised and keep clients informed.
Clear communication about your availability and booking policies improves professionalism and client satisfaction.
Good organisation balances your side hustle with full-time life smoothly.
10. Keep Learning and Upskilling
Stay current with hair trends, new techniques, and industry standards by attending workshops and training courses in NZ.
Joining professional hairdressing associations provides networking and continuing education opportunities.
Ongoing learning ensures your skills remain fresh and clients return happily.