What to Charge? A Practical Guide to Pricing 🐶 Pets Services in New Zealand

Running a business in the pets services sector across New Zealand comes with its unique challenges-from varying animal needs to diverse client expectations. This guide is tailored to help Kiwi 🐶 Pets professionals price their services smartly and sustainably, with practical tips that address real-world situations and local insights.

Here are some tips that you might find interesting:

1. Understand Your Full Cost Base

Start by adding all your costs-equipment, pet supplies, travel, insurance, and the hours you spend on each job, including admin and prep time.

For example, pet carers in Auckland include petrol costs and parking fees, while those in regional areas like Marlborough factor in longer trips.

Knowing your real costs ensures your pricing covers expenses and generates fair profit.

2. Research Market Rates Locally

Use trusted platforms like Yada, TradeMe Services, and local directories to check what other pet professionals charge in your area.

Rates vary widely-urban areas like Wellington usually command higher prices than smaller towns such as Timaru.

This research helps you stay competitive and in line with client expectations.

3. Create Clear Service Tiers

Break down your services into clear, tiered pricing for common offerings-for example, daily walks, overnight boarding, grooming, or special care.

In Christchurch, a pet sitter might charge $25 for a 30-minute walk, $50 for a full day visit, and more for extra services like medication.

Clear pricing helps clients understand their options and budget accordingly.

4. Be Transparent About Additional Fees

Clearly outline extra charges for late-night visits, special diets, or multiple pets to avoid surprises.

Many sitters add small surcharges during peak times such as holidays or weekends.

Transparency builds trust and reduces potential disputes.

5. Offer Loyalty Discounts and Packages

Reward repeat clients with discounts for block bookings or ongoing care packages.

A Hawke's Bay sitter boosted retention by offering monthly packages with a small percentage off the daily rate.

These packages smooth income and help clients commit long-term.

6. Adjust Pricing for Peak Seasons

Increase prices modestly during busy times like school holidays, Christmas, or event weekends.

In Auckland, sitters typically add 10-20% premiums during these periods, communicated well in advance.

Clients usually accept this when handled professionally.

7. Highlight Your Qualifications and Experience

Showcase any pet care certifications, first aid training, or specialized experience-for example, working with anxious or elderly pets.

Wellington sitters who mention their qualifications on Yada attract more bookings and justify premium rates.

Clients feel more confident entrusting you with their pets.

8. Request and Display Testimonials

Ask satisfied clients for reviews and share them on Yada, Facebook, or your website.

A Nelson pet professional credits glowing testimonials for expanding her client base significantly.

Word-of-mouth and social proof are powerful local marketing tools.

9. Use Local NZ Platforms for Visibility

List your services on multiple trusted New Zealand platforms like Yada and TradeMe Services.

Yada’s fee-free setup means you keep more of your earnings while reaching local clients effectively.

Its mobile-friendly design lets you communicate and manage bookings on the go.

10. Personalise Communication and Pricing

Engage clients through Yada’s private chat or calls to discuss individual pet needs before quoting final prices.

A Kapiti sitter customises pricing based on pet size, behaviour, and special care requirements.

Clients appreciate this personalised approach, leading to better satisfaction and loyalty.

11. Avoid Competing on Price Alone

Don’t undercut yourself. Instead, emphasise your reliability, genuine care, and professionalism.

Christchurch pet professionals who focus on quality over cheap rates build sustainable businesses and loyal clients.

Kiwis respect fair pricing for trustworthy, caring services.

12. Regularly Review and Update Prices

Costs and markets change. Review your pricing every 6-12 months and adjust to stay competitive and profitable.

Yada’s tools help track bookings and client feedback to guide your pricing strategy.

Keeping pricing current supports long-term business success.

13. Network With Local Pet Businesses

Build relationships with vets, pet stores, trainers, and groomers for referrals and joint promotions.

One Wellington sitter grew bookings significantly through partnerships with doggy daycares and local events.

Community connections are worth the effort for steady growth.