Reach Local Customers with Google Business Profile

Why Google Business Profile Matters for Local NZ Businesses

Every day, more Kiwis turn to Google to find local services, restaurants, tradespeople, stores, and more. For your business, appearing in these local search results is crucial for attracting customers nearby—whether they’re about to make a purchase or searching for a trusted provider.

Google Business Profile (formerly Google Places and Google My Business) is Google’s platform for managing business listings in Google Search and Maps. An optimised profile ensures your business stands out in local searches and on Google Maps, providing customers with your latest contact details, reviews, hours, services, and more.

How Google Shows Local Results

When someone searches with local intent (like “plumber near me” or “coffee shop Ponsonby”), Google often displays:

• Paid search ads (Google Ads)
• Organic website listings
• Google Business Profile results, often shown in a map pack at the top of the page

Google Business Profile results include a map, business names, reviews, hours, phone numbers, and directions—all designed to help local customers choose quickly.

Get Started: Claim and Optimise Your Google Business Profile

• Claim or Verify Your Profile: Go to Google Business Profile and claim your existing listing or create a new one.
• Complete Your Details: Add your address, phone number, business hours, website link, services, products, photos, and business description.
• Keep Your Info Fresh: Update your hours, add new photos, and post updates for promotions or news.
• Encourage and Respond to Reviews: Positive reviews build trust and influence rankings. Respond promptly and professionally to all feedback.
• Optimise for Local Searches: Use keywords relevant to your services and location in your business description. Add regular posts and updates to improve engagement.
• Add Attributes and Services: Specify offerings like delivery, bookings, free Wi-Fi, accessibility, etc.

Tips for Businesses with Multiple Locations

If you operate more than ten locations, take advantage of Google’s bulk management tool to maintain and update all your listings efficiently.

Why Local SEO Matters

Managing your Google Business Profile is central to local SEO and helps your business appear in those all-important “near me” and map searches. An optimised profile can increase calls, website visits, and store visits—making it one of the highest-ROI digital marketing activities for local businesses.

Need help optimising your Google Business Profile? Contact Adhesion for local SEO support and tailored advice.