What to Look for When Hiring a Handyman in NZ
- Clear about what work they will and won't do (e.g. no electrical/gas)
- Public liability insurance
- Written estimate before starting, even for small jobs
- Good reviews for reliability and turning up on time
- Refers you to a licensed tradie for anything outside their scope
Red Flags to Watch Out For
- Offers to do electrical or gas work without a licence
- No insurance
- Can't give a rough price over the phone
- No fixed address or business details
Typical Costs Across NZ
Hourly rate: $50β$90/hr. Call-out fee: $50β$100. Half-day job: $200β$450
Costs vary significantly by city β Auckland and Queenstown are typically the most expensive, while Invercargill and Dunedin are among the most affordable.
Licensing Requirements
No licensing required for general handyman work, but electrical and gasfitting work must legally be done by a licensed electrician or gasfitter β a handyman should not touch either. Check the register β