Work & Career
Finding the right balance between work, parenting, and everything else isn’t easy, especially when you’re doing it solo. Whether you’re thinking about returning to work, starting something new from home, or upskilling for the future, there are practical supports and options out there.
This page is here to help you explore your options: from finding a job, to upskilling, to building a career that grows with you. Whether you need immediate income, are re-entering the workforce, or are thinking longer-term about financial independence through an established career, there are practical steps you can take to live life better - one at a time.
I also want to say this: consider yourself the (often unseen) superhero of the workforce. You carry more load every day than most people could imagine. You face the gender pay gap, the need for greater flexibility, the full weight of costs, the constant juggle and yet you still show up. Take a moment to find yourself amazing.
Work You Can Start Now
If you need to start earning right away, a side hustle can be a low-risk option. Some ideas take time to build, while others can start with a single post in your community groups.
Freelance or remote work (gig economy). Perfect if you have a professional background in areas like IT, finance, or admin. With little or even free training, you can offer services such as:
Web design
Bookkeeping
Virtual assistance
Tutoring
Editing or writing
You can check out online platforms like Fiverr or Upwork to see what others are offering or list your own services if those platforms suit your audience.
Part-time or casual roles can also work well around childcare. Other solo mums find opportunities within their own communities. From gardening or cleaning to helping other families with babysitting while caring for their own child (two birds, one stone!). This can be as easy as posting on your community social media or putting a tear-off flyer on your local notice boards.
Homecarelink - a platform that lets you offer different skills at once like cleaning, childcare, or home help. You'd offer with clear pricing, a verified profile, and flexible control over when and how you work, all in one place. Note: This has just been rolled out by another mum in the Bay of Plenty but is planned to be a NZ wide platform.
Flexible Work & Conversations
Since becoming a parent, flexibility at work becomes essential. And for solo mums, it’s often non-negotiable. Having those conversations can feel uncomfortable, especially when you’re trying to balance genuine needs with the realities of workload and team expectations.
Even with the best flexibility, it’s still a stretch but it helps when your workplace understands what balance looks like for you.
For practical guidance and conversation tools, explore Gillian Brookes’ resources on flexible work. She’s one of New Zealand’s leading voices on flexibility and sustainable work!
Thinking About Going Back to Work
If you’re on a benefit, returning to work can feel complicated, especially if you’re not earning much more than you receive in support. But it’s not just about the dollars. Work can bring independence, connection, structure, and future opportunities. Think this way: when a better opportunity comes around, you have experience to show.
A place to start is Work and Income. They can help with job planning, training, and your transition back into work.
Work & Income also have a facebook group Job Connect NZ for regular updates, job listings, and real stories from people finding work and how that fits family life.
Upskill for What’s Next
Even short courses or online certificates can open doors. Many are free or low-cost. Start browsing here:
Upskilling is one of the most valuable things you can do for yourself. It doesn’t have to be a specific training - it could just be learning a new language. But even the smallest learning is an investment in your and your kids future.
A personal note: since becoming a solo mum, work has changed for me. It’s not just a job. It’s part of my social life, my routine, and my sense of normal. I never expected work could be a safe place, a source of stability and normalcy when other parts of life felt shaky.
Note: Earn a little extra? Just make sure you declare it (for example IRD and WINZ if you’re on a benefit).