I’ve been running Kiwi Web Design for years, and I’ve seen too many small business owners get burned by websites that don’t work the way they should. In Auckland alone, there are dozens of agencies promising the world, but not all of them deliver. Your website isn’t just “nice to have” anymore. It’s your shopfront that works 24/7, answering questions, attracting customers, and building trust before you even meet someone.
According to Vistaprint NZ, over 75% of Kiwis aged 16-64 search online for products and services. That’s not a trend — that’s the way we live now. So the decision of who builds your website matters a lot.
Here’s what I tell people when they ask me how to pick the right web design agency, whether they work with me at Kiwi Web Design or someone else.
1. Look at Real Projects, Not Just Pretty Homepages
An agency can make a flashy homepage, but can they build a site that works for your business? Ask to see examples in your industry. If you run a café in Auckland, find out if they’ve built food and beverage sites before. You’ll quickly see who understands your kind of customer and who’s just guessing.
2. Check Their Reputation Outside Their Website
Don’t just rely on the testimonials they publish. Look for reviews on Google, Facebook, or industry sites like Clutch.co. A pattern of happy customers says a lot more than a polished sales pitch.
3. Make Sure They Understand the NZ Market
The difference between working with a local Auckland web design team and an overseas freelancer is huge. Local agencies understand things like .nz domains, Kiwi buying habits, and even regulations like the NZ Privacy Act. That local knowledge can make your site more relevant and trustworthy to your audience.
4. Get Clear on Price and What’s Included
This is where things often go wrong. I’ve seen small businesses quoted a low “build” price, only to find hosting, updates, or even basic SEO cost extra. When we quote at Kiwi Web Design, we list exactly what’s included, so you know there are no nasty surprises. Whatever agency you choose, make sure you’re comparing apples with apples.
5. Talk to Them Before You Sign Anything
A quick call will tell you a lot about how they work. Do they ask about your business goals? Do they explain things in plain English? Are they willing to give you practical advice before you commit? If they’re vague or pushy before you’ve paid them, expect that to continue later.
6. Ask About Ongoing Support
Your website is not “done” the day it goes live. Plugins need updating, content needs changing, and sometimes you’ll just want to add something new. Ask how they handle ongoing work. At Kiwi Web Design, we offer flexible support packages so you’re not stuck trying to figure things out alone.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Agencies promising “page one of Google in a week” — that’s not how SEO works.
- No real portfolio or only stock images.
- Poor communication before you’ve even signed.
A Real Example
Last year, a small retail shop in West Auckland came to me after paying for a site they couldn’t edit without hiring a developer. We rebuilt it on WordPress, gave them a quick training session, and now they can update prices and add products themselves. Within two months, they were getting more online sales than foot traffic.
Final Thoughts
Whether you choose Kiwi Web Design or another Auckland web design agency, the main thing is to work with a team that listens, explains things clearly, and understands how your customers think. Take your time, ask questions, and make sure you’re getting a site that works for you — not just for their portfolio.
If you want to talk through what’s possible for your business, get in touch with Kiwi Web Design. We can walk you through your options and give you a clear plan to get your site working as hard as you do.