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

Starting a side hustle in the pet care industry is a brilliant way for Kiwi specialists to earn extra income while doing what they love. Whether you’re into pet sitting, dog walking, grooming, or training, this guide provides friendly, practical tips tailored for New Zealand’s unique pet market and lifestyle.

Here are some tips that you might find interesting:

1. Understand Your Local Pet Market

New Zealand has a rich variety of pet owners-from urban Aucklanders to rural families-each with their own pet care needs.

Weirdly enough, smaller towns often have fewer professional pet services, creating opportunities for side hustles offering personalised home visits or mobile care.

Study your community’s pet culture to tailor your service. For example, a Waikato-based pet sitter might focus on farm animals as well as dogs and cats.

2. List Your Services on Yada

Yada is a Kiwi platform designed for specialists across spheres, including pet professionals. It’s free to join, has no lead or success fees, and uses a rating system to connect you with ideal local clients.

The platform’s internal chat and mobile-friendly interface make juggling side hustle gigs alongside your day job straightforward and efficient.

Posting your pet care services on Yada can kickstart your side hustle without the hassle or cost of traditional advertising.

3. Offer Flexible Scheduling and Services

Pet owners in New Zealand often need flexible options-after-hours dog walking, weekend pet sitting, or same-day visits.

Think of it as building your hustle around your clients’ busy Kiwi lifestyles. For instance, weekend boarding in holiday hotspots like Tauranga can be very popular.

Providing a mix of services, such as training consultations combined with dog walking, can expand your client base.

4. Use Industry-Trusted Directories

Besides Yada, list your business on popular New Zealand pet directories like TradeMe Services, Localist, and pet-focused Facebook groups.

These platforms frequently attract local pet owners searching for verified professionals with good reviews.

Being visible on these directories results in steady inquiries and builds trust with your community.

5. Request and Display Client Testimonials

Kiwis trust peer reviews immensely, so ask happy clients for testimonials and permission to share before-and-after photos or heartwarming stories.

For example, a dog walker in Wellington increased bookings substantially after sharing customer feedback combined with cute snapshots of happy dogs.

Positive word-of-mouth and online reviews are your best marketing tools in tight-knit Kiwi communities.

6. Build Local Partnerships

Connect with local vets, pet stores, groomers, and trainers to form referral networks. This creates a win-win for everyone and increases your exposure.

One Auckland pet sitter found great success collaborating with a local vet who recommended her services to clients in need of home visits.

Strong local partnerships provide a steady stream of clients without hefty marketing costs.

7. Create a Simple Online Presence

Even a basic website or Facebook page including your services, location, and contact details builds credibility.

Google Sites, Wix, or Carrd offer easy, mobile-friendly options perfect for side hustlers just starting out.

Include client reviews and photos to show your skills and reliability at a glance.

8. Share Helpful Pet Care Content

Regularly share simple tips, stories, or photos on social media to keep your audience engaged and demonstrate expertise.

For example, post seasonal pet care reminders or quick training tips applicable to local pet owners in Christchurch or Dunedin.

Giving value without hard-selling builds goodwill and keeps you top-of-mind.

9. Keep Administration Simple and Efficient

Use tools like Yada’s internal chat and booking features to streamline communication and scheduling, reducing time spent on admin.

Clear policies around cancellations, payments, and availability help maintain professionalism and prevent stress.

Staying organised means more time focusing on quality pet care and less on paperwork.

10. Prioritise Safety and Insurance

Make safety and insurance a priority to protect yourself and your clients’ pets. Many local providers offer policies tailored to pet professionals.

Clear communication about your safety procedures, especially regarding COVID-19 hygiene and pet health, will reassure clients.

Being proactive in this area builds trust and professionalism in a competitive market.