A simple and lucrative way for Kiwis to make some extra cash is to attend paid market research NZ-wide.
Market research is also known as focus groups or discussion panels.
I attended paid market research sessions regularly before I had kids and have recently started participating in them again.
What is a focus group?
According to Prime Research, “A focus group is an opinion-seeking panel discussion where consumers, just like you, are asked to share their thoughts on new ideas, products, policies, advertising, packaging and other topics.”
As they are sometimes called, focus groups or research panels are more time-intensive than online surveys, but they also pay a lot better.
I’ve had offers ranging from $40 for a 40-minute session right up to $180 for a 3-hour session.
The best thing about this way of earning extra income is that you can fit it around your family.
Most sessions I’ve been invited to are run evenings and weekends, although that varies between companies.
Tip: Ngaire from Reid Research recommends joining all of the panels you can, regardless of location.
Panels are held nationwide and online so you never know when you might be selected.
What’s involved?
You’ll usually be emailed if you are suitable for a research session.
You might then need to submit a form with further information to qualify.
Once successful, you’ll be given confirmation, including date and time, location and payment details.
Sometimes, researchers will even attend your home for the sessions.
Each panel varies, so make sure you sign up for all of them to have maximum chances of being selected.
How to be successful
Be honest; remember, you are being paid to participate and share your opinions. If you are not the type of person who likes to speak up, you should look for another way to make extra cash.
Submit complete information. You’ll be selected based on your profile, so give as much detail as possible.
Paid Focus Groups Around New Zealand
If you’re interested in taking part in New Zealand focus groups as a way to make extra money, I’ve listed the top companies below.
Visit the links to register on their websites.
1. Octoqual by Octopus Group
Octoqual offers a wide variety of paid qualitative research opportunities—basically, real conversations where your opinion counts.
You might take part in one-on-one interviews ($60–$150), group sessions ($45–$90), in-person product testing, mystery shopping, or even high-tech activities like eye tracking ($120–$200).
It’s flexible, fun, and you’ll always be paid for your time. You must be an Octopus member to register.
Join Octoqual by Octopus Group here
2. Prime Research
Prime Research run focus groups all over the country (even in the ‘smallest of towns’ according to their GM, Kate).
Prime Research has been connecting everyday Kiwis with paid market research groups and opportunities since 1996.
You could be invited to take part in focus groups, product trials, taste tests, Zoom interviews, or even mystery shopping—all depending on your profile.
Sessions usually pay between $50–$150, and children can be registered too for kid-focused research. Your information is kept private, and you’ll only be contacted for studies you’re suited to.
Apply to join Prime Research’s panel here
3. Reid Research
Reid Research invites Kiwis to share their views on everything from new products to public services.
Research can be done online, in person, by phone, or even by post, and may include product tastings, trials, or general surveys.
In return for your time, you may receive cash, vouchers, products, or be entered into prize draws. Your information is kept confidential and used only for genuine research purposes.
4. Opinions Market Research
Based in Christchurch, Opinions Market Research regularly recruits everyday people to take part in paid research like focus groups, interviews, and surveys.
If selected, you could be asked to share your thoughts on products, services, or advertising—either in person or online.
Their dedicated team runs a wide range of projects, and you’ll be compensated for your time.
Join Opinions Market Research here
5. People for Information
People4info runs a wide range of research projects—everything from talking about ice cream to testing websites.
You might take part in group discussions, interviews, or online user testing (many from home if you have a webcam and decent internet).
All studies are for research only, never sales, and your privacy is guaranteed.
Rewards include cash, vouchers, or e-vouchers, with full details provided upfront.
Join People For Information here
6. Dialogue Partners
Dialogue Partners welcomes people from all walks of life to share their opinions through focus groups, interviews, or online sessions.
If you match a project, you’ll be invited to take part and rewarded with cash, vouchers, products, or gifts—agreed upfront.
Registration is quick and free, and your personal details are kept strictly confidential.
7. Standpoints
Standpoints offers a mix of rewards including e-vouchers, cash, prize draws, and more—depending on the type of study.
Online surveys earn digital rewards, while offline research may offer additional incentives. Your details are kept private, and you’ll only be sent surveys that match your profile.
If you’re looking for a flexible, enjoyable way to earn extra cash while sharing your honest opinions, paid market research is a fantastic option for Kiwis nationwide.
With so many reputable companies running a variety of sessions—from online surveys to in-person focus groups—you can easily fit participation around your lifestyle and family commitments.
Signing up with multiple panels maximises your chances of being selected and getting paid for your time.
So why not join a few today and start turning your thoughts into extra income? Your opinion really does count!
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