Life in New Zealand isn’t getting any cheaper, with grocery prices, rent, and petrol costs steadily rising. More and more Kiwis are looking for ways to supplement their income without sacrificing their work-life balance. Whether you’re saving for a first home, looking to clear some debt, or just want a bit of extra spending money, a side hustle can be a game-changer. As the whakataukī (Māori proverb) says, “Ka pū te ruha, ka hao te rangatahi”—as an old net withers, another is remade. It’s all about adapting and finding new opportunities.
The good news? There are plenty of ways to make extra cash without quitting your day job. Here are seven easy side hustles that Kiwis can start in 2025 to boost their income.
Boost Your Income: Effective Strategies to Increase Your Earnings
1. Renting Out Your Space on Airbnb or Book-a-Bach
Got a spare room, sleepout, or even a Bach that sits empty most of the year? Turning it into an Airbnb or listing it on Book-a-Bach can be a great way to earn some passive income. With NZ’s strong tourism scene, travellers are always looking for affordable, homely places to stay.
Note: If you live near popular tourist spots like Queenstown, Rotorua, or Wellington, your space could be in high demand. Even renting out a room in Auckland for concerts or major events can bring in solid cash.
2. Become a Freelance Virtual Assistant
Businesses (both in NZ and overseas) are always looking for virtual assistants to help with admin work, social media management, and customer service. If you’ve got solid organisation skills, this is an easy way to earn from home.
Where to start: Websites like www.upwork.com and www.peopleperhour.com are great for finding gigs, but don’t underestimate word-of-mouth. Let local businesses know you’re available!
3. Sell on Trade Me or Facebook Marketplace
Kiwis love a good bargain, and second-hand shopping is more popular than ever. If you’ve got unused items lying around—old clothes, furniture, electronics—you can flip them for cash. Better yet, you can buy underpriced items and resell them at a profit.
Hot tip: Op shops and garage sales often have hidden gems you can flip for a tidy profit.
4. Start a Small Business on www.shopify.com or www.etsy.com
Got a knack for making handmade jewellery, candles, or art? Platforms like Shopify and Etsy make it easy to sell your creations. Kiwis are increasingly looking for unique, locally made products, so there’s a growing market for handmade and sustainable goods.
- Trending now: Eco-friendly products, personalised gifts, and home decor items.
- Kiwi Success Story: Many local artisans have turned their side hustle into a full-time gig by catering to the growing demand for authentic, homegrown products.
5. Drive for Uber or Deliver with Uber Eats & DoorDash
If you’ve got a reliable car and a clean driving record, driving for Uber or making food deliveries with Uber Eats or DoorDash can be a flexible way to earn extra income. The best part? You can work whenever it suits you—weekends, evenings, or even just a few hours here and there.
Insider tip: If you’re in a student-heavy city like Dunedin or Christchurch, demand can be high during late nights and weekends.
6. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking
Kiwis love their pets, and many busy professionals are willing to pay good money for someone to walk their dogs or look after their pets while they’re away. Apps like Pawshake make it easy to connect with pet owners looking for trusted sitters.
Why it works: It’s a fun way to make money, especially if you’re an animal lover. Plus, no major upfront costs!
7. Monetise Your Skills with Online Tutoring or Courses
Are you good at maths, English, or even playing the guitar? Online tutoring is booming, and platforms like www.preply.com or www.superprof.com let you teach from anywhere. Alternatively, you can create and sell digital courses on sites like www.udemy.com or www.teachable.com .
- Extra tip: If you speak fluent te reo Māori, there’s a growing demand for language tutors!
- Passive Income Option: Once you create an online course, it can generate income with little ongoing effort, making it a great long-term side hustle.
Side hustles are a fantastic way to boost your income, gain financial independence, and even build skills that could lead to new career opportunities. Whether you’re renting out a spare room, freelancing, or selling handmade goods, the key is to start small and be consistent.
So, which side hustle are you keen to try? Give it a go—your future self will thank you!