The Easiest Ways to Start a Side Hustle in NZ (Even If You Have a Full-Time Job) - Towing / Drivers
Starting a side hustle as a towing or driving professional in New Zealand offers a practical and flexible way to earn extra income. Whether you handle vehicle recoveries in Auckland or offer courier services in smaller towns like Rotorua, this guide provides straightforward, Kiwi-centric tips to attract clients and juggle your side hustle with a full-time job.
Here are some tips that you might find interesting:
1. Know Your Local Market Needs
Understanding the specific towing and driving needs in your region-such as roadside assistance in busy urban centres or transport services in rural areas-helps tailor your offerings.
Weirdly enough, some smaller communities appreciate personalised, friendly service more than just speed or price.
Adapting to these preferences can make your side hustle more successful.
2. Create a Profile on Yada
Yada is a free NZ platform connecting towing and driving specialists with local clients without lead or success fees.
The rating and review system rewards reliability, helping you attract more and better job matches.
Its mobile-friendly app lets you manage bookings and communicate with clients conveniently.
3. Offer Flexible Service Options
Provide a range of services such as emergency towing, scheduled transfers, and courier deliveries to meet diverse client needs.
An Auckland driver expanded his side hustle by offering premium airport transfers in addition to towing services.
Flexibility helps you balance client needs with your own availability.
4. Get Listed on Local Service Directories
Besides Yada, list on local directories like NoCowboys, TradeMe Services, and community noticeboards.
Showcase clear service descriptions, competitive pricing, and positive reviews to build client trust.
Multiple listings increase your chances of regular work.
5. Collect and Display Client Testimonials
Request for reviews and share client satisfaction stories to improve your reputation.
A Christchurch towing specialist saw more bookings after posting testimonials from grateful customers on social media.
Happy clients are your best marketing tool for referrals.
6. Network with Complementary Businesses
Build relationships with car repair shops, insurance agents, and dealerships for steady referral streams.
Weirdly enough, local connections in NZ often trump online marketing efforts for service businesses.
Strong networks secure consistent side hustle income.
7. Build a Simple, Mobile Website
Create a professional, mobile-optimised website using Canva, Wix, or Google Sites highlighting your services, contact information, and reviews.
Keep it updated with recent work and client feedback to maintain engagement.
A reliable online presence enhances client confidence and eases booking.
8. Share Practical Driving Tips Online
Post helpful tips on vehicle safety, maintenance, and local driving regulations via social media.
For example, sharing winter driving tips tailored to NZ’s climate builds community trust.
Useful content nurtures potential client relationships without being pushy.
9. Manage Booking and Communication
Use Yada’s booking and messaging tools or apps like Calendly to keep your schedule organised and communicate clearly with clients.
Clear communication about timings and services builds professionalism and reduces cancellations.
Organised management ensures you can juggle your side hustle alongside a full-time job successfully.
10. Keep Skills and Licenses Updated
Maintain your driver’s licences, certifications, and knowledge of NZ’s transport regulations through regular training.
Engage with professional bodies like the NZ Transport Agency to stay compliant and informed.
Keeping current enhances your credibility and service quality, attracting more clients.