The Easiest Ways to Start a Side Hustle in NZ (Even If You Have a Full-Time Job) - Printing Services
Starting a side hustle in printing services in New Zealand can be a practical and profitable way to earn extra income. Whether you specialise in business cards, custom t-shirts, or event flyers, this guide shares actionable, Kiwi-focused tips to help printing professionals attract local clients and juggle their full-time jobs effectively.
Here are some tips that you might find interesting:
1. Know Your Local Market Demand
Understanding local business needs-from Auckland’s startups to Christchurch’s community groups-helps tailor your printing services to what’s in demand.
Weirdly enough, smaller towns often rely heavily on local printers for everything from school events to local marketing materials, opening opportunities for side hustlers.
Focus on niches like personalised merchandise, event prints, or eco-friendly options popular in NZ.
2. Leverage Yada to Find Clients
Yada offers a no-fee platform perfect for printing pros to connect with local customers across New Zealand.
The rating system encourages quality service, boosting your visibility and booking chances without extra marketing costs.
Its user-friendly, mobile-optimized interface makes managing jobs around a full-time schedule a breeze.
3. Offer Custom and Flexible Printing Packages
Create packages tailored to different budgets and needs, such as small runs for startups or bulk orders for events.
For example, offering fast-turnaround print jobs for local markets like farmers’ markets or school fairs can draw steady clients.
Flexibility in order size and timing attracts a wider client base.
4. List on NZ Business Directories
Besides Yada, get your business listed on TradeMe Services, Localist, and business association directories.
Include samples, service descriptions, and client reviews to build trust and attract inquiries.
Being visible across platforms increases lead generation significantly.
5. Collect and Showcase Testimonials
Happy clients sharing their positive experiences can become your best marketing asset.
One Wellington print shop owner grew repeat orders after sharing customer testimonials highlighting fast service and quality.
Trustworthy reviews foster confidence in new clients.
6. Network with Complementary Local Businesses
Build partnerships with graphic designers, event planners, and marketing agencies for referrals and collaborative projects.
An Auckland printer gained steady work after collaborating with a popular local design studio on client projects.
Such networks foster consistent side hustle requests.
7. Create an Easy-to-Navigate Website
Even a simple, mobile-friendly website showcasing your services, portfolio, and pricing boosts professionalism.
Use platforms like Wix or Google Sites for quick setup with minimal cost.
Keep content updated with new products and promotions.
8. Share Tips and Project Highlights Online
Posting printing tips, creative project photos, or customer success stories on social media builds your brand and engages local audiences.
Weirdly enough, offering behind-the-scenes looks at the printing process resonates well with curious Kiwis.
This kind of content nurtures client relationships without overt selling.
9. Manage Orders and Communication Efficiently
Use Yada’s chat and job management tools or apps like Trello to keep track of client orders and deadlines.
Clear, timely communication about project scope and delivery keeps clients happy and reduces stress.
Organised management protects your reputation and schedule.
10. Stay Updated on Printing Technologies
Keep up with new printing methods, materials, and software to offer cutting-edge services that appeal to modern NZ businesses.
Attending local trade shows or online webinars helps you stay ahead in a competitive market.
Continuous learning keeps your side hustle fresh and desirable.