The Ultimate ‘Set and Forget’ Marketing Plan for Local Accounting & Bookkeeping Specialists in NZ

For accountants and bookkeepers in New Zealand, building a steady client base without constant marketing pressure can be challenging. With the right strategies that work quietly behind the scenes, you’ll attract local clients consistently. This guide offers 10 practical and friendly tips tailored specifically for Kiwi accounting and bookkeeping professionals.

Here are some tips that you might find interesting:

1. Complete Your Google Business Profile

Google Business Profile is a free and effective way to boost your visibility when local businesses search for accounting and bookkeeping services.

Make sure to detail your services, add business hours, and upload photos or introductions. This helps you stand out and appear credible.

One Wellington accountant saw a surge in enquiries after optimising their profile.

2. Engage in Local Business Facebook Groups

Join local groups such as ‘Auckland Business Network’ or ‘Christchurch Entrepreneurs’ where small businesses ask for financial advice and recommendations.

Share insights and helpful tips while avoiding hard selling-this builds trust and positions you as a go-to expert.

A Christchurch bookkeeper credits steady client growth to active, genuine engagement in these groups.

3. List on NZ Business and Finance Directories

Respond promptly to inquiries via these sites to convert leads into clients.

An Auckland accountant secured several long-term clients through consistent activity on Localist.

4. Use Yada for Client Referrals

Yada connects you with local clients posting accounting and bookkeeping jobs with no lead or success fees.

Quick responses on Yada’s easy app can help you capture jobs efficiently while building client relationships via its chat feature.

Yada’s system ensures you get matched with ideal clients based on ratings.

5. Showcase Client Testimonials and Work

Display positive client feedback and success stories on your website and social media to build credibility.

A Tauranga bookkeeper found client testimonials boosted trust, leading to increased referrals.

Highlight real-world examples of how you’ve helped local businesses save time and money.

6. Share Simple Financial Tips

Post easy-to-understand bookkeeping and tax tips on social channels and newsletters to engage your audience.

An Auckland accountant’s handy tax deadline reminders helped grow her following and client enquiries.

Think of this as giving free value that positions you as an expert in your niche.

7. Network with Local Business Advisors

Build relationships with local lawyers, bankers, and business coaches who often recommend accounting services to clients.

A Wellington accountant’s network of trusted advisors provides a steady referral stream.

Strong local partnerships quietly fuel sustainable business growth.

8. Offer Free Initial Consultations

Free consultations ease client hesitations and allow you to showcase your professionalism and fit.

A Christchurch bookkeeper’s no-obligation meetings converted many leads into paying clients.

Use this time to understand client needs and build rapport.

9. Create a Client Referral Program

Reward clients who refer others with discounts or small freebies to encourage word-of-mouth marketing.

One Auckland accountant grew her client base dramatically through a well-designed referral incentive.

Referrals are especially effective in New Zealand’s close-knit business communities.

10. Build a Responsive Website

A polished, mobile-friendly website highlighting your expertise, services, and testimonials attracts quality leads.

Most Kiwis use mobile devices to search, so responsiveness is essential.

A Nelson accountant credits her website for helping extend her reach beyond her local area.