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

Starting a painting and decorating side hustle is a brilliant way for Kiwi tradespeople to boost their income and showcase their craft. Whether you’re working on cosy bunks in Queenstown or freshening up new builds in Auckland, these handy tips will help you connect with local clients and smoothly balance your side hustle with your full-time job.

Here are some tips that you might find interesting:

1. Know Your Local Style Preferences

Different towns and cities in New Zealand have their own vibes. For instance, Aucklanders often go for modern, minimalist styles, while in smaller communities like Dunedin, classic and cozy colours are popular.

Weirdly enough, eco-friendly paints and finishes have become a top pick around NZ, so offering these can give you a competitive edge.

Understanding your area’s taste helps you offer exactly what clients want.

2. Set Up Your Yada Profile

Yada is a handy platform that connects you with local clients with no lead or success fees, ideal for picking up side gigs.

Its rating system helps trusted painters stand out in your neighbourhood, making it easier to land jobs.

The platform is mobile-friendly, so you can juggle client chats and bookings between other commitments.

3. Offer Flexible Service Packages

Offer everything from simple wall touch-ups to full-room masterpieces and wallpapering to cover all client needs.

A Christchurch decorator got a steady flow of work by offering free colour consultations and after-hours services.

Being flexible lets you match client schedules and keep your side hustle manageable.

4. Advertise Where Locals Look

Besides Yada, post your services on local community boards, Facebook groups, and popular Kiwi trade directories like TradeMe Services.

Clear photos, honest pricing, and service info boosts client confidence and attracts enquiries.

Multiple platforms means more eyes on your business and more leads rolling in.

5. Collect and Show Off Testimonials

Ask clients for reviews and permission to share before-and-after pics to highlight your skills.

An Auckland painter built a solid reputation by featuring customer testimonials regularly on Instagram and Facebook.

Good word-of-mouth can multiply your client base faster than any ad.

6. Link Up With Other Trades

Connect with interior designers, builders, and real estate agents for steady referrals.

Weirdly enough, local face-to-face networking still trumps online ads in many NZ communities.

Strong trade partnerships mean more job opportunities and long-term growth.

7. Build a Simple Online Presence

Create a simple but professional website via Wix or Google Sites displaying your portfolio, services, and client feedback.

Keep it fresh with new photos and testimonials to engage visitors.

An easy-to-find site boosts professionalism and client enquiries.

8. Share Regular Painting Tips

Post handy painting advice and trends to show your expertise and build trust online.

Localised tips like preparing walls for NZ’s changeable weather help build local connections.

Helping clients with useful info keeps you front of mind without being pushy.

9. Be Organised With Bookings

Use Yada’s booking and messaging system or calendar apps to keep your schedule tidy and client communication clear.

Good communication minimizes cancellations and builds client confidence.

Staying organised lets you keep side work and your full-time job balanced.

10. Keep Learning and Growing

Stay current with NZ painting standards, environmental regulations, and new techniques by attending courses or joining associations.

Ongoing professional growth ensures you offer top-notch service and inspires client trust.

Continuous learning keeps your side hustle competitive and rewarding.