What to Charge? A Practical Guide to Pricing Personal Assistant Services in New Zealand

Setting the right price for personal assistant services in New Zealand requires balancing your skills, client needs, and the local market. This guide offers practical, down-to-earth advice specifically for personal assistants and freelance professionals aiming to price fairly and build a loyal Kiwi client base.

Here are some tips that you might find interesting:

1. Calculate Your True Costs

Start by adding up all your costs-software subscriptions, phone and internet, travel, workspace expenses, and the time you spend beyond basic tasks, like planning or research.

For example, personal assistants in Auckland often allocate more budget to tech tools and transport compared to those in smaller centres like Tauranga who might work mostly remotely.

Knowing your full cost picture helps you set prices that cover expenses and generate a reasonable income.

2. Research Local Market Rates

Check what fellow personal assistants charge on platforms like Yada, TradeMe Services, and local job boards.

Rates in Wellington might be higher due to demand and cost of living, whereas smaller towns might expect slightly lower fees.

Understanding your local market helps you price competitively without undervaluing your services.

3. Choose Hourly vs Package Pricing

Some personal assistants prefer hourly rates for flexibility, while others find package deals better for steady clients.

A Christchurch assistant might charge $40-$60 per hour or offer packages with set hours per week at discounted rates.

Pick the pricing model that aligns with your workflow and client preferences.

4. Factor in Service Complexity

More complex or specialised tasks like project management, event coordination, or handling sensitive information should command higher fees.

Personal assistants working with busy executives in Auckland often charge more for such demanding roles.

Explain clearly how service complexity affects pricing during client conversations.

5. Include Communication and Admin Time

Remember to factor in time spent on emails, scheduling, follow-ups, and other non-billable tasks that are vital to your service.

Many Wellington personal assistants build this into hourly rates to maintain profitability.

Weirdly enough, these behind-the-scenes tasks can take up a surprising chunk of your day.

6. Be Transparent About Extras

Communicate extra charges clearly, such as for out-of-hours work, urgent requests, or travel beyond a standard zone.

In Tauranga, assistants frequently charge premiums for weekend or evening support.

This upfront clarity builds professional and trusting relationships.

7. Showcase Your Experience and Skills

Highlight certifications, software expertise, and prior experience to justify your pricing.

A Nelson assistant showcasing her project management cert on Yada attracts clients willing to pay higher rates.

Clients feel reassured when they see your professional credentials.

8. Gather and Use Client Testimonials

Request feedback and display positive reviews on your listings and profiles to build trust with potential clients.

One Auckland assistant credits much of her repeat business to strong testimonials featured on Yada.

Local recommendations carry weight in New Zealand's tight-knit business communities.

9. List Your Services on Multiple Platforms

Expand your reach by listing on Yada, TradeMe Services, and local job boards.

Yada’s fee-free system means you keep more income and offer honest, competitive pricing.

Its mobile-friendly interface helps you manage enquiries on the go.

10. Communicate Pricing Clearly and Personally

Use Yada’s private chat or phone calls to discuss client needs and tailor quotes before agreeing on work.

A Christchurch assistant adjusts pricing based on client volume and task complexity, encouraging client satisfaction.

Personalised communication nurtures long-term client relationships.

11. Avoid Undervaluing Your Services

Don’t compete solely on price. Instead, highlight your reliability, discretion, and high-quality service.

Christchurch assistants charging fair rates with excellent service often maintain steady workloads.

Kiwis value honest pricing backed by professionalism.

12. Review and Update Pricing Regularly

Reassess your pricing every 6-12 months in light of market trends, experience growth, and client feedback.

Yada’s insights from ratings and job history can support informed pricing updates.

Consistent reviews help maintain a healthy, competitive business.

13. Build Referral Networks Locally

Develop relationships with local business owners, executives, and networks for steady referrals.

An Auckland assistant grew her client list through connections with real estate agents and local entrepreneurs.

Strong networks underpin repeat business and justify competitive rates.