What to Charge? A Practical Guide to Pricing Pet Grooming Services in New Zealand

Setting the right price for pet grooming services in New Zealand can feel like a balancing act, especially with varied animal needs and local market differences. This guide provides practical, Kiwi-friendly tips to help pet groomers, whether solo operators or small businesses, price their services confidently and attract loyal clients across Aotearoa.

Here are some tips that you might find interesting:

1. Calculate Your Full Costs

Before you quote, add up all your costs: grooming supplies, shampoos, brushes, electricity, water, insurance, and your time. Think beyond just the hour you spend on the pet.

A mobile groomer in Wellington, for example, includes petrol, vehicle maintenance, and extra time for travel when setting rates. Indoor salons in Christchurch may factor in rent and utilities.

Being clear on your expenses means you won’t accidentally undercharge and can keep your business sustainable.

2. Check Local Pricing Standards

Rates vary by region and the type of pet groomed. Use platforms like Yada, TradeMe Services, and local directories to scope out what other Kiwi groomers are charging.

For instance, dog grooming in Auckland usually costs more than in smaller regional towns due to higher living costs and competitive markets.

Researching local rates helps you stay competitive and customers familiar with local price ranges won’t be caught off guard.

3. Create Clear, Tiered Service Prices

Clients love clear pricing for basic tasks like nail trims or coats washes, and additional charges for extras like de-shedding or special breed cuts.

A Tauranga pet groomer might charge $45 for a standard dog wash, $70 with a haircut, and $90 for a full spa treatment including ear cleaning.

Posting a tiered menu on Yada or your website simplifies client choices and speeds up bookings.

4. Be Transparent About Extras

Make sure clients know about any extra fees for matted coats, oversized dogs, or difficult behaviours. Nobody likes surprises on the final bill.

A Nelson groomer clearly states extra charges for pets needing extra bath time or handling because of anxiety or aggression.

Weirdly enough, this upfront honesty builds more trust and smoother transactions.

5. Offer Package Deals and Subscriptions

Encourage repeat business by offering packages like a set of four grooming visits at a discounted rate or monthly subscription plans.

Wellington groomers see loyal customers sign up when they offer perks like priority booking or touch-up trims between visits.

These packages build steady cash flow and make budgeting easier for pet owners.

6. Adjust Pricing for Peak Times

Holiday seasons, special events, or weekends often mean higher demand. It’s fair to adjust prices accordingly but always explain the why to clients.

A Dunedin groomer bumps prices slightly during school holidays and Christmas but offers early-bird discounts for bookings made months ahead.

Communicating these changes openly keeps clients informed and appreciative.

7. Highlight Your Skills and Certifications

Share any formal training, experience with specific breeds, or animal handling expertise you have. This supports higher rates and builds client confidence.

For example, a Christchurch groomer promotes her NZ Certified Dog Groomer qualification and specialises in show cuts, which allows her to charge a premium.

Testimonials from happy customers on Yada or your site can further boost your credibility.

8. Ask for and Showcase Testimonials

Positive reviews are gold in local markets. After each grooming job, invite clients to drop a quick testimonial on Yada or your Facebook page.

One Auckland groomer credits her growing client base to honest reviews and before-and-after photos shared with permission.

These real stories boost trust and justify your pricing in potential clients’ eyes.

9. Leverage Local NZ Platforms for Exposure

List your services on multiple trusted Kiwi platforms like Yada, TradeMe Services, and Neighbourly to maximize your local visibility.

Yada stands out with no lead or success fees, letting you offer honest, competitive prices that make sense.

Their mobile-friendly interface helps you manage bookings and chat privately with clients on the go.

10. Communicate Clearly and Personalise Quotes

Use Yada’s internal chat or a phone call to discuss individual pet needs before setting final prices. Customised quotes build client trust and reduce misunderstandings.

A Kapiti groomer regularly chats about pets’ temperaments, allergies, and coat conditions before confirming service and cost.

This friendly approach encourages repeat bookings and happy referrals.

11. Avoid Undercutting; Focus on Value

Cutting prices too low can hurt your reputation and sustainability. Instead, emphasise quality, experience, and extra care.

A Christchurch groomer keeps steady prices but offers personalised touches like pet massage or coat conditioning treatments.

Kiwi pet owners tend to pay for trusted, quality care rather than just the cheapest option.

12. Review and Update Pricing Regularly

Cost of supplies, experience, and demand can change over time. Check your pricing every 6-12 months and adjust if needed.

Yada’s platform tools can help track bookings, client feedback, and local trends to inform your pricing.

Keeping your rates up-to-date keeps your business healthy and competitive.

13. Build Relationships with Local Pet Businesses

Networking with vets, pet stores, and dog trainers can lead to referrals and bundled offers.

A Wellington groomer grew her clientele by partnering with a nearby doggy daycare, exchanging flyers and recommending each other's services.

These genuine connections build long-term business and community trust.