Helpers connects Dunedin locals with verified Otago University students for gardening, cleaning, errands, and more. Here's how it works — and why we built it.
The best parts of working for yourself — the connections, the purpose, the income — shouldn't require you to run a whole business. We built Helpers so students and locals both get the benefit, without the overhead.
We started Helpers because the gap between those two things was obvious — and surprisingly easy to fix. Students set their own rates, work around their lectures, and get paid securely. Locals get reliable, affordable help from someone they can actually read reviews on. Everyone wins.
Read the full story →Filter by job type, location, and availability. Read real reviews from other Dunedin locals before you book.
Tell us what you need, pick a time, and leave your details. No account needed — just your email address.
Your helper reviews the request and confirms a time that works. You'll get an email when it's locked in.
Your card is held securely and only charged once the job is marked complete. No surprises.
Submit your application and CV. We verify your Otago student ID and check your application — usually within a few days.
Add your skills, hourly rate, availability, and a short bio. Connect your bank account via Stripe for payouts.
When a local wants to book you, you'll get an email. Review the job, confirm a time, and show up.
Mark the job complete and payment is released directly to your bank. You keep 75% of every booking.
Student ID verified
Every helper is verified as a current Otago University student before they go live.
Secure payment
Card details are held by Stripe. Payment is only captured after the job is done — never upfront.
Real reviews
Only clients who actually completed a job can leave a review. No fake ratings.
Direct communication
You deal directly with your helper. No call centres, no middlemen.
Do I need an account to book a helper?
No. You just need an email address. We'll send all updates about your booking to that address.
When does my card get charged?
Your card is authorised when you confirm the booking, but the charge is only captured after the job is marked complete by your helper.
What if I'm not happy with the job?
Contact us at [email protected] and we'll make it right. We want every experience to be a great one.
Do helpers need to be Otago students?
Yes — at the moment Helpers is open to current Otago University students only. We verify this before approving any profile.
How much do helpers earn?
Helpers set their own rates and keep 75% of each booking. The remaining 25% covers Stripe fees and platform costs.
Find a helper near you, or apply to join our community of student workers.