How to make a second job work for you
Wondering about starting a side hustle? If so, you’re actually in the majority. SEEK research shows that well over half (61%) of Kiwis already have, or plan to take up, a second job or side hustle. Whether you want to monetise a passion or you're doing it just for the extra cash, here's how to make it work without burning yourself out.
The benefits of a side hustle
A second job can have more benefits than just extra income, says Leah Lambart, Career Coach and Director of Relaunch Me. It could also be a stepping stone to a new career. Coaching is one example, she says. “Someone thinking of moving from corporate into coaching might start with one client a month and build up gradually until they could scale back their full-time work.”
In other cases, a side job can help you build new skills, explore hobbies, broaden your social circle, or even enhance your industry profile. Often, a second job is a great way to explore strengths or passions that you don’t find in your main role, says Lambart.
What to consider before getting a second job
There are a few factors to consider before you start launching a side hustle, to make sure the additional work will fit into your life and that it’s worth the extra effort.
Make sure you:
- Check your employment contract. First, make sure you’re not putting your main job at risk, says Lambart. Check your existing contract to confirm if you need to tell your employer or if there are any other limitations, such as conflicts of interest.
- Have enough time. How realistic it is for you to take on extra work? If you’re working weekends or nights, will this be sustainable long-term or could it lead to burnout? You don’t want it to impact your primary job or your physical and mental health, says Lambart.
- Don’t forget about tax. While having a second job doesn’t mean you’re taxed at a higher rate by default, the extra income is added to what you already earn. This can push you into a higher tax bracket and result in paying more tax overall. Plan ahead to avoid a tax bill at the end of the year, especially if your second job is freelance or self employed. Always consult an accountant is unsure about tax.
Six tips to make it work
Ready to start searching for a second gig or side hustle? Here’s what the experts suggest, so you can enjoy the extra cash without the extra stress.
1. Look for flexibility
Jobs without set hours are ideal for a second role, says Lambart. This could be driving rideshare (like Uber or Didi), freelance writing, mowing lawns, being a swim instructor, or even building websites. It helps if hours can be easily scaled up or down.
“Ideally, you want control over your schedule,” she says. “You don’t want an employer calling on you at all hours and expecting you to be available.”
2. Set expectations with your new employer
Managing expectations becomes even more important when juggling two employers. “Make sure you don’t take too much on – and have an open, transparent conversation with the employer of the second job about your existing commitments,” says Lambart.
3. Stay on top of tax requirements
Managing your tax doesn’t have to be complicated. The key step is to make sure you’re paying secondary tax on your second job. While this might seem like you’re paying more tax than normal, it’s designed to balance out with your main job so you aren’t left with a big tax bill at the end of the year.
You can also apply for a special tax code that reflects your individual income to avoid being overtaxed. If you know what you’ll be paid in your primary job and that your extra income needs to be taxed at a certain rate, you can apply for a tax code so it’s done correctly each pay.
Secondary tax rates don’t apply if your extra income is from being self employed, such as freelance work or a side hustle. However, you’ll still have to pay the right amount of tax on what you earn – check with an accountant if you need help with figuring this out.
4. Enlist family and friends for support
Taking on extra work will leave you with less time for other things, like socialising with friends or weekends with family. Let your loved ones know about your new work commitments and how they might impact them. For example, if you’re taking on freelance web design work in the evenings, you might need quiet time at home to focus.
5. Look after your wellbeing
Prioritising your physical wellbeing and mental health is even more important when juggling multiple jobs. Schedule downtime and block out at least one full day per week free from work commitments. Focus on maintaining healthy habits, such as getting enough sleep, eating well, exercising and spending time with friends and family.
6. Regularly take stock of how things are going
Once a month, assess how your second job is going. Take note of any signs of burnout, keep track of how much time you’re working, and how much money you’re banking, and if your side gig is affecting your main job. Importantly, ask yourself if you’re still enjoying the extra work and finding it valuable – assess if it’s still working for you.
A second job can boost your income, expand your skill set, and even lead to exciting career developments, but it has to be sustainable for you to reap the benefits. Find a flexible role that fits into your lifestyle and prioritise your wellbeing to make the most of both jobs.
Source: Independent research conducted by Nature of behalf of SEEK, interviewing 4000 New Zealanders annually. Published November 2025.
