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

Starting a pet grooming side hustle in New Zealand is a rewarding way to earn extra income while doing what you love. Whether you’re trimming tails in Tauranga or tidying up fur in Wellington, this guide offers practical, Kiwi-focused tips to help pet grooming pros build their side business without quitting their day job.

Here are some tips that you might find interesting:

1. Know Your Local Pet Grooming Scene

Each region in NZ has its own pet grooming demand and style. Urban areas like Auckland and Christchurch may appreciate quick, drop-in grooming, while smaller towns prefer a more personalised touch.

Weirdly enough, rural areas often welcome mobile grooming services since local salons are scarce. Tailoring your side hustle to your community’s needs sets you apart.

Get familiar with what services are common around you-nails, baths, hair trims, or full grooming packages-and what Kiwis expect from a pro.

2. Set Up on Yada for Easy Exposure

Yada is a new Kiwi platform that welcomes pet groomers without lead or success fees, letting you list your services and respond to local jobs effortlessly.

Its fair rating system means great service brings more job opportunities. Plus, the mobile-friendly, straightforward interface helps you chat and schedule grooming sessions on the fly.

This hassle-free platform suits busy side hustlers who want jobs without constant hustling or expensive marketing.

3. Offer Flexible Hours for Busy Kiwis

Many pet owners juggle work and family, so offering early morning, evening, or weekend appointments makes your services more attractive.

For example, a Wellington-based groomer opened up Sunday slots and quickly gained clients who couldn’t make weekday appointments.

Flexible scheduling also helps you fit grooming around your main job, reducing stress and burnout.

4. Get Listed on NZ Pet Services Directories

Besides Yada, platforms like TradeMe Services, Localist, and pet-focused Facebook groups are goldmines for local exposure.

These sites often attract pet owners actively searching for groomers in their area, and many allow showcasing photos and client reviews.

Spend 15-30 minutes per platform to list your profile and reap long-term benefits.

5. Collect and Show Off Client Reviews

Word-of-mouth and testimonials mean a lot here in NZ. Reach out to happy clients for quick reviews or before-and-after grooming photos to share on your profiles.

For example, a Christchurch groomer saw bookings rise after sharing detailed testimonials paired with gorgeous furry transformations.

This builds trust and helps future clients feel confident choosing you.

6. Network with Vets and Pet Shops

Local vets and pet shops can be great referral sources. Leave your card or flyers, offer small discounts or joint promotions, and build relationships.

A Tauranga groomer partnered with a vet clinic for cross-referrals-owners needing a pet check-up often booked grooming services too.

These partnerships quietly grow your client base over time.

7. Manage Bookings with Simple Tools

Yada’s internal chat and booking features streamline client communication, so you avoid double bookings and last-minute cancellations.

Clear communication about your availability, pricing, and preparation makes the experience smooth for clients and helps you juggle your time better.

Set firm boundaries that protect your time and energy between your full-time job and grooming hustle.

8. Build a Basic, Professional Website

Even a simple, single-page site created on Google Sites or Wix builds your online credibility and lets potential clients learn about your services easily.

Make sure it’s mobile-optimised as most Kiwis will check you out on their phones before booking.

Include testimonials, contact info, a service list, and some pictures of your work.

9. Share Grooming Tips and Stories

Regularly post simple grooming tips, fun pet photos, or client success stories on social media to engage your audience without a hard sell.

For example, sharing “how to keep your dog’s coat shiny between grooms” connects you with pet owners and keeps you front of mind.

Friendly, helpful content attracts local followers who could turn into clients.

10. Ensure Safety and Confidence

Clients want peace of mind. Have the right pet-sitting insurance, keep your grooming space clean and safe, and communicate openly about your processes and pet handling techniques.

Many Kiwi groomers use local insurance providers tailored for pet businesses-this protects both you and your furry clients.

Being confident and transparent builds trust, especially with clients new to professional grooming.