At GoCarterton, we work with over 80 local businesses at all stages of their growth. Here are some of the best lessons we’ve learned (and seen in action) from our members who’ve grown their ventures with heart, hustle, and smarts.
1. Know When It’s Time to Grow
For many Carterton businesses, growth isn’t about going national — it’s about going sustainable. That might mean:
- Hiring your first part-time staff member
- Taking on a second contract or outlet
- Upgrading from paper-based to digital bookings
“We knew we had to scale when we were turning away customers every weekend. It wasn’t just about demand — it was about burnout.”
— [Josie]
2. Streamline Before You Multiply
Scaling chaos doesn’t help anyone. The most successful Carterton businesses we’ve seen grow have something in common: they sort their systems before they expand.
- Use simple tools like Xero, Timely, or Square
- Automate what you can (invoicing, reminders, social posts)
- Set processes so you’re not reinventing the wheel every week
“Before I hired someone, I wrote down everything I did in a day. It was wild. That list became our first training doc.”
— [Hari and Sam]
3. Get Support from the Right People
You don’t have to do it alone — especially in Carterton.
- Join GoCarterton events to meet others who’ve scaled
- Use the Business Wairarapa app to find local mentors or suppliers
- Tap into Council support, workshops, and funding advice
“I got more useful advice from one local networking night than from 10 online webinars.”
— [Renee]
4. Grow on Purpose
Not all growth is good. Some of our most successful members scaled sideways — by changing services, refining their niche, or choosing a better work-life balance.
Ask yourself:
- Will this growth increase profit and sustainability?
- Is this aligned with my brand and values?
- Will it bring me closer to (or further from) the lifestyle I want?
“Growth doesn’t mean opening another store — it means finally taking a holiday without checking your email.”
— [Peter]
Ready to Scale?
Whether you’re just starting or feeling the stretch, GoCarterton is here to help. Come along to one of our events, get listed in our business directory, or talk to someone who’s already been through it.
Your business belongs here — and we’ll help it grow.
