What to Charge? A Practical Guide to Pricing Manicure & Pedicure Services in New Zealand

Pricing manicure and pedicure services in New Zealand can be a delicate balance between covering costs, reflecting your skills, and staying competitive locally. This friendly guide offers practical tips to help nail technicians and beauty professionals set fair, transparent prices that attract clients and build long-term business.

Here are some tips that you might find interesting:

1. Calculate Your Total Costs

Factor in your expenses such as quality nail products, equipment maintenance, studio rent or home setup, disposables, and insurance.

For example, Auckland professionals usually face higher venue costs compared to those operating from smaller centres like Whanganui.

Accurate cost calculation ensures your pricing sustains your business.

2. Research Market Rates Locally

Check what other manicure and pedicure specialists charge in your area through Yada, TradeMe, and local beauty forums.

Rates tend to be higher in cities like Wellington and Christchurch compared to rural towns.

Knowing your market helps you price competitively.

3. Consider Service Type Pricing

Differentiate prices for basic, gel, acrylic nails, and luxury treatments.

A Nelson technician might charge $30-$40 for a basic manicure, $60-$80 for gel nails, and more for intricate nail art.

Clear pricing helps clients understand value and choose suitable services.

4. Adjust Prices for Skill and Experience

Experienced technicians with specialised skills or certifications can charge premium rates.

An Auckland nail artist with a strong portfolio and advanced training often attracts clients willing to pay higher fees.

Showcase your expertise to justify your rates.

5. Include Prep and Hygiene Time

Account for time and materials spent on sanitisation, setup, and cleanup between clients.

Wellington studios typically factor hygiene protocol costs into prices given health regulations.

Weirdly enough, this behind-the-scenes effort is crucial for safety and client comfort.

6. Be Clear on Cancellation Policies

Set and communicate cancellation and no-show policies to protect your income and time.

Most Christchurch technicians require 24 hours’ notice to avoid charging fees.

Clear guidelines help maintain professionalism and client respect.

7. Leverage Client Testimonials

Request reviews from happy clients and display these on your Yada profile and social media.

Strong testimonials helped a Tauranga specialist build a steady client base quickly.

Real feedback is highly valued in New Zealand communities.

8. List on Popular Local Platforms

Maximise visibility by listing your services on Yada, TradeMe Services, and local business directories.

Yada’s no lead or commission fees mean you keep more of your earnings and can offer honest pricing.

Its mobile-friendly interface helps manage client bookings and chats smoothly.

9. Communicate Pricing Personally

Use Yada’s private chat or calls to discuss client preferences and provide tailored quotes.

A Christchurch nail technician often customises pricing based on service complexity and client needs.

Personalised conversations build trust and repeat business.

10. Periodically Review and Adjust Pricing

Review your pricing annually to reflect changes in products, expertise, and market demand.

Leverage Yada’s rating system and customer feedback to guide smart pricing adjustments.

Regular price reviews keep your business competitive and profitable.

11. Build Local Referral Networks

Develop relationships with beauty salons, spas, and local businesses for client referrals.

An Auckland technician expanded her clientele through partnerships with nearby wellness centres.

Strong community networks feed steady work and justify your rates.