Why Now Is the Best Time to Become Self-Employed in NZ: 🎉 Events & Entertainment
If you’re in the 🎉 Events & Entertainment scene in New Zealand, going self-employed has never been more rewarding. Whether you’re a performer, event manager, or technician, the current landscape offers great opportunities to shine locally and build a thriving business right from your phone or laptop.
Here are some tips that you might find interesting:
1. Riding the Wave of NZ’s Event Boom
New Zealand’s events and entertainment sector is buzzing like never before. With major events, festivals, and shows returning in full swing post-pandemic, the demand for skilled specialists is shooting up. Local audiences love live entertainment, creating a steady rundown of gigs for self-employed pros.
Think of it as an open door: more clients needing sound tech, event managers, DJs, performers, and crew means more chances for you to land jobs without waiting around. Plus, the government’s support packages fuel this growth, encouraging more events across the country from Auckland to Christchurch.
For example, local festivals like Rhythm & Vines and Auckland's big concert seasons regularly seek freelancers, guaranteeing regular opportunities if you've got the skills and know-how.
2. Embrace Flexibility & Control
One massive perk of self-employment is calling your own shots. You decide your projects, your hours, and how to deliver your creativity or expertise. This control is golden in an industry where weekend, night, and seasonal work are common.
Take a lighting designer who handles bookings around family time or a DJ who selects gigs by type and vibe. Flexibility means you can balance passion projects with paid work, making your career sustainably enjoyable.
Weirdly enough, this autonomy also helps you build a niche reputation locally, because you can focus on the types of events or entertainment you enjoy most, such as weddings, corporate events, or cultural festivals.
3. Smart Platforms Level the Playing Field
Platforms like Yada are game changers for event and entertainment freelancers in NZ. You can join as an individual specialist or business, post and respond to job offers for free, and avoid pesky lead or success fees. That means you keep more of what you earn.
Yada’s mobile-friendly, fast interface lets you connect with local clients anywhere in New Zealand, whether you’re in Tauranga, Wellington, or Nelson. Plus, their rating system helps you build credibility quickly-the better your reviews, the more gigs you attract.
Imagine landing a spring festival gig after a client leaves a glowing review on Yada-it’s like word-of-mouth but supercharged online.
4. Competitive, Honest Pricing Wins Clients
Without lead or success fees on platforms like Yada, you can offer fairer prices to clients, making your services more attractive than those hidden behind fat commissions. This transparency builds trust and encourages repeat business.
For example, an event sound technician might quote a clean, competitive rate that clients appreciate compared to pricier agency rates. This honesty often leads to faster bookings and positive recommendations around the traps.
Try positioning yourself as a specialist who delivers great value without cutting corners-that’s a standout approach in NZ’s close-knit event industry.
5. Networking Made Easy with Local Connections
Self-employed entertainment pros often thrive on strong local networks. From contacting event planners to teaming up with local venues and suppliers, these networks are gold for referrals and collaborations.
Attend community arts events or industry meetups in your region to meet key players. For instance, Auckland’s arts precinct or Christchurch’s creative hubs offer fantastic chances to make connections that lead to steady projects.
Don’t forget online groups and social media pages dedicated to NZ events and entertainment-they’re perfect for finding out about gigs and sharing your expertise with others.
6. Overcome Seasonal Lulls Smartly
The events industry often faces quiet spells, especially outside summer or holiday seasons. But being self-employed allows you to plan for this, diversifying your work or upskilling during downtime.
A wedding DJ might branch into corporate events or offer online streaming support for quieter months. Or, learn new skills in event tech or production to widen your service offering.
Weirdly enough, embracing these quieter times can boost your business long term-new skills and contacts mean you’re ready for the next busy season with fresh opportunities.
7. Use NZ Industry Directories & Platforms
Besides Yada, there are valuable NZ-specific platforms like NoCowboys, Unicorn Factory, and TradeMe Services where you can list your 🎉 Events & Entertainment skills. These sites connect you directly with clients actively looking for local talent.
Focus on building strong profiles with quality photos, detailed service descriptions, and customer reviews where possible. This boosts your chances of catching the eye of event organisers searching for trusted professionals.
For example, a performer regularly updating their Unicorn Factory profile gets booked for Wellington festivals faster due to better visibility.
8. Maximise Your Tax Benefits
Being self-employed also means you can claim business-related expenses. For entertainment pros, this might include gear hire, travel between gigs, and even meals with clients, often up to 50% deductible. This helps reduce your overall tax bill.
Keep detailed records and invoices for anything linked to your work. This not only helps with tax but also paints a clear picture of your business health, making it easier to plan ahead financially.
Many Kiwis find using tools like Hnry or FreeAgent handy for managing taxes and expenses without hassle.
9. Build a Strong Online Presence
Clients in New Zealand search online first-so a simple website or social media page showcasing your event portfolio can pay off big time. You don’t need fancy; clear photos of past gigs, client testimonials, and contact info work wonders.
Sharing stories of local events you’ve worked at, like a Wellington theatre festival or a Christchurch corporate function, adds credibility and shows your local roots.
Weirdly enough, this consistent online presence means when word spreads offline, people have a place to check out your work immediately.
10. Deliver Outstanding Customer Service
In Kiwi events, word of mouth is everything. A reputation for reliability, clear communication, and showing up fully prepared sets you apart. Clients often rebook or recommend specialists who make their job easier.
For example, a stage manager who emails clients before every event with updates and arrives with extra gear inspires confidence and repeat bookings.
Use Yada’s private chat feature to keep client conversations organised and prompt. This professionalism boosts your ratings and business growth.